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Tasting Tradition Through Cultural Riches
Embarking on a captivating journey through Ecuador’s culinary landscape, travelers will uncover a realm where flavors intertwine with rich historical heritage.
From the tantalizing aromas of Andean cuisine to the fresh seafood flavors of the coast, Ecuador offers a tapestry of taste sensations waiting to be explored. The delight of experiencing the ancestral corn of the Cordillera and savoring the velvety richness of Ecuador’s cocoa awaits its visitors. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culinary scenes of cities like Quito and Cuenca, where each dish is a masterpiece celebrating the country’s cultural identity. You will find yourself enchanted as the signature flavors of Ecuador tantalize your taste buds with every bite, promising an unforgettable gastronomic adventure.
Fine Dining
Casa Gangotena restaurant
Nestled in Quito’s Historic Center, Casa Gangotena celebrates Ecuador’s diverse flavors with “Cocina Mestiza” (Mestizo Cuisine), a masterful fusion of the country’s mountains, coasts, and rainforests. Chefs expertly blend ancestral creativity with global influences, crafting contemporary dishes like Manabita Ceviche, Andean Duck with Apple Purée, and Langostine and Herb Bisque Gyozas, each offering a unique culinary experience reflecting Ecuador’s coastal, Andean, and cultural influences.
Nuema
Renowned as the first Ecuadorian restaurant to make the list of the 50 Best Restaurants in Latin America, Nuema, ranked #11 in 2023, offers an exquisite menu that celebrates the ingredients and culinary traditions of the country. This menu evolves with each season’s finest offerings, adapting its philosophy to ensure that the concept of locality remains central to its identity. An exceptional culinary experience, with an exclusive selection of wines and cocktails, Nuema embodies the gastronomic exquisiteness of Ecuador.
La María
Situated in the bustling heart of Cuenca, La María offers a distinctive culinary experience with its “Cocina Libre” approach, honoring Ecuadorian culinary heritage. With a commitment to utilizing the finest Ecuadorian products, the restaurant guarantees a remarkable dining experience. Guests can savor signature dishes like cuy empanadas, Cuenca-style churrasco, and lamb with panela, each reflecting La María’s dedication to innovative yet authentic flavors.
ShamuiCo
Nestled in the charming town of Saraguro, in Ecuador’s southern province of Loja, ShamuiCo isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a culinary revelation brought to life by Samuel Ortega. With a deep reverence for his hometown’s culture and cuisine, Samuel’s vision for ShamuiCo transcends mere dining. Every dish reflects his dedication to preserving local traditions and supporting the community. From sourcing ingredients from nearby fields and orchards to providing a platform for Saraguro artists, ShamuiCo enriches the town’s cultural fabric while taking its visitors on a rewarding exploration of familiar flavors through innovative formats.
Local Eateries
La Ñora
Visitors will indulge in traditional Ecuadorian cuisine at La Ñora, located in Quito’s charming La Floresta neighborhood. This restaurant honors traditional recipes from the coast and the Andes, offering dishes such as shrimp ceviche and bolones de verde, a traditional Ecuadorian dish made from green plantains. With a cozy atmosphere and a palpable passion for local cuisine, La Ñora celebrates the mastery of Ecuadorian chefs and preserves the most genuine flavors of Ecuador.
Heladería San Agustín
Since 1858, the distinguished Heladería San Agustín has delighted its visitors with traditional dishes, exquisite paila ice cream and typical sweets. Regarded as the oldest restaurant in the Historic Center of Quito, this emblematic ice cream parlor, operated by six generations of the same family, has excelled for more than 165 years for its commitment to the preservation and innovation of Quito’s gastronomy, providing a unique and authentic culinary experience.
Consuelo
Immerse yourself in the culinary flair of Cuenca at Consuelo, where tradition and innovation harmonize to provide a delightful dining experience. Nestled in a historic mansion on the city’s main square, this restaurant captivates with its local cuisine, cozy atmosphere, and unique décor. With an eclectic mix of vintage furniture, classic pieces adorning the walls, and an array of paintings and artifacts, Consuelo’s kitschy design adds to the charm and character of the dining experience, inviting visitors to embrace the restaurant’s rich cultural tapestry while enjoying the flavors of Ecuador with every bite.
Mercado 10 de Agosto
Situated in Cuenca’s historic heart, the 10 de Agosto Market is a culinary emblem of the city. Renowned for its authenticity and gastronomic diversity, this market is a must-stop for those looking to sample the most genuine flavors of the region. It offers a diverse variety of local delicacies, ranging from a never-ending array of fruits and vegetables, meat, and poultry, along with eateries that are popular with the locals — including mote con chicharrón and hornado. Additionally, visitors can partake in ancestral cleanses, adding a unique cultural experience to their culinary journey.
Ready to savor the cultural richness of Ecuador’s culinary landscape? Plan your gastronomic getaway now through one of our tours and experience the diverse flavors, traditions, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
Javier Garcia
Eduardo Silva
Carolina Escobar
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Javier Garcia
Eduardo Silva
Carolina Escobar
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