The Best Food In Quito – A Culinary Journey Through Ecuador’s Capital

🍴 Ecuadorian cuisine is as varied as its landscapes. From the Andean mountains to the Pacific coast and the Amazon jungle, every region has its own specialty dishes. Quito, the capital of Ecuador, offers a rich culinary experience that combines traditional local ingredients with international influences. In this article, we’ll explore the best food in Quito, from street food to high-end restaurants.

Table of Contents

Introduction
Quito Cuisine: A Fusion of Flavors
Street Food: The Heart of Quito’s Culinary Scene
Top Restaurants in Quito
Vegetarian and Vegan Options in Quito
Fresh Seafood in Quito
Meat Dishes: A Taste of Ecuador
Local Drinks to Try in Quito
Desserts: Sweet Endings to Your Meal
Tasting Tours in Quito
Food Markets: Where to Find the Best Produce
Cooking Classes: Learn to Cook like a Local
Food Festivals in Quito
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Disclaimer

Introduction

🍲 Quito, nestled in the Andean mountains at 2,850 meters above sea level, has a rich culinary history that dates back to the Inca Empire. The city’s cuisine is a reflection of its diverse geography, with ingredients ranging from quinoa and potatoes to seafood and exotic fruits. Over the years, Quito’s food scene has evolved to include a mix of traditional dishes and modern fusion cuisine.

🍽️ In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the best food in Quito, including street food, high-end restaurants, and everything in between. We’ll also explore some of the city’s food markets, cooking classes, and tasting tours. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for a taste of Ecuador, Quito won’t disappoint.

Quito: A Culinary Gem in South America

🍴 Quito’s culinary scene is often overshadowed by other South American cities like Buenos Aires and Lima. However, the city has plenty to offer in terms of food and drink. From traditional dishes like ceviche and locro de papas to international cuisine like sushi and pizza, you’ll find something to suit your taste buds in Quito.

🍸 The city also has a thriving nightlife, with plenty of bars and clubs serving up local and international drinks. Don’t miss the chance to try a chicha, a fermented corn drink popular in the Andean region, or a canelazo, a hot spiced drink made with naranjilla juice and cinnamon.

A Note on Safety

🚫 Before we dive into the best food in Quito, it’s important to address safety concerns. Like any big city, Quito has some areas that are best avoided, especially at night. Stick to well-lit areas and avoid wearing flashy jewelry or carrying large amounts of cash. Also, be cautious when trying street food and make sure the vendor is using proper hygiene practices.

How to Get Around Quito

🚗 Quito is a sprawling city with many neighborhoods to explore. The best way to get around is by taxi or Uber, especially at night. The city also has a public transport system, but it can be confusing for tourists. Walking is a great option if you’re staying in the historic center, which is compact and pedestrian-friendly.

Where to Stay in Quito

🏨 Quito has a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget. If you’re looking for a luxurious stay, check out the historic Casa Gangotena or the modern Swissotel. If you’re on a budget, there are plenty of hostels and guesthouses in the historic center and other neighborhoods.

When to Visit Quito

🌞 Quito has a mild climate year-round, with temperatures ranging from 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The best time to visit is from June to September, which is the dry season. However, this is also the busiest time, so expect higher prices and crowds. If you’re on a budget, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of April-May or October-November.

Getting to Quito

✈️ Quito’s Mariscal Sucre International Airport is served by many airlines, including American, Delta, United, and JetBlue. Flights from the United States typically take 4-6 hours, depending on your departure city. The airport is located about 30 minutes from the city center and taxis are readily available.

Quito Cuisine: A Fusion of Flavors

🍽️ Quito’s cuisine is a blend of indigenous, Spanish, and African influences. Some of the city’s signature dishes include:

Ceviche

🐟 Ceviche is a popular seafood dish made with fresh raw fish marinated in lime juice, onion, cilantro, and chili peppers. It’s typically served with corn and sweet potato.

Locro de Papas

🥔 Locro de papas is a hearty potato soup made with onions, garlic, cheese, and avocado. It’s often served with empanadas or cornbread.

Encebollado

🐟 Encebollado is a fish soup made with onion, yuca, and spices. It’s a popular breakfast dish and is believed to cure hangovers.

Llapingachos

🧀 Llapingachos are potato patties stuffed with cheese and served with peanut sauce, salad, and avocado. They’re a popular street food and are often sold from food carts in the historic center.

Hornado

🐖 Hornado is a roasted pork dish served with potatoes, corn, and mote (hominy). It’s a traditional dish from the Sierra region and is often served at festivities and celebrations.

Seco de Chivo

🐐 Seco de chivo is a goat stew made with beer, cilantro, and onions. It’s a popular dish in the Sierra region and is often served with rice and beans.

Street Food: The Heart of Quito’s Culinary Scene

🍴 Street food is an integral part of Quito’s food scene. From empanadas to tamales, you’ll find a variety of traditional dishes sold from food carts throughout the city. Here are some must-try street foods:

Empanadas

🥟 Empanadas are a staple of Ecuadorian street food. They’re typically filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables and are fried until crispy. Look for empanadas de viento, which are filled with cheese and served with aji sauce.

Tamales

🌽 Tamales are a traditional dish made with corn dough, meat, and spices. They’re often wrapped in banana leaves and steamed until cooked. In Quito, tamales are typically served with aji sauce.

Salchipapas

🍟 Salchipapas is a popular street food dish made with french fries and sliced hot dogs. It’s often served with salsa and mayonnaise.

Churros

🍩 Churros are a sweet treat made with fried dough and sugar. They’re often sold from food carts in the evening and are best enjoyed with a hot chocolate.

Top Restaurants in Quito

🍽️ Quito has a thriving restaurant scene, with plenty of options for every taste and budget. Here are some of the top restaurants in the city:

Maito

🐟 Maito is a seafood restaurant located in the trendy La Floresta neighborhood. The menu features a mix of traditional and modern dishes, with an emphasis on fresh seafood. Don’t miss the ceviche and the grilled