The Best Restaurants in Ecuador: A Culinary Adventure

Ecuador is famous not only for its breathtaking mountains, beaches, and rainforest but also for its rich and diverse cuisine. With flavors influenced by Indigenous, Spanish, African, and international traditions, dining in Ecuador is a true exploration of taste. Here is a guide to 15 exceptional restaurants across the country, each offering a unique experience and delicious dishes:

1. Zazu – Quito

Price: $40–80 per person
Location: Quito
A fine-dining experience blending Ecuadorian ingredients with international techniques. Famous for tasting menus featuring local products like Andean potatoes, cacao, and seafood.

2. Nuema – Quito

Price: $50–90 per person
Location: Quito
Ranked among Latin America’s best restaurants, Nuema offers innovative dishes rooted in biodiversity. Menus highlight Amazonian and Andean ingredients in a contemporary style.

3. La Pinta – Galápagos (Santa Cruz)

Price: $25–50 per person
Location: Puerto Ayora, Galápagos
A popular seafood restaurant serving fresh ceviches, grilled fish, and lobster with ocean views.

4. Casa Gangotena Restaurant – Quito

Price: $35–70 per person
Location: Quito’s Historic Center
Set in a restored colonial mansion, the restaurant blends Ecuadorian heritage with gourmet presentations. Perfect for romantic dinners.

5. El Mercado – Cuenca

Price: $20–40 per person
Location: Cuenca
A chic spot offering Ecuadorian classics like locro de papa (potato soup) and roasted cuy (guinea pig), alongside international options.

6. Lo Nuestro – Guayaquil

Price: $15–30 per person
Location: Guayaquil
A traditional restaurant famous for coastal dishes such as encebollado (fish stew), arroz con menestra, and plantain-based meals.

7. La Pizarra – Quito

Price: $20–40 per person
Location: Quito (La Floresta)
Known for creative tapas and cocktails with Ecuadorian ingredients. Offers a trendy, artistic atmosphere.

8. Anker – Guayaquil

Price: $30–60 per person
Location: Guayaquil
A modern fine-dining restaurant serving Ecuadorian seafood with a contemporary twist. Lobster and prawns are highlights.

9. El Jardín – Quito

Price: $25–50 per person
Location: Quito (Swissôtel)
Elegant restaurant offering international cuisine alongside Ecuadorian specialties, with panoramic views of the city.

10. La Cevichería de Guayaquil

Price: $10–25 per person
Location: Guayaquil
Casual spot specializing in coastal ceviche varieties — shrimp, fish, and octopus. A must-try for seafood lovers.

11. Tiesto’s Café – Cuenca

Price: $25–45 per person
Location: Cuenca
Famous for its flamboyant chef and large sharing plates of traditional Ecuadorian food with gourmet flair.

12. Isla Grill – Galápagos (Santa Cruz)

Price: $20–45 per person
Location: Puerto Ayora, Galápagos
Popular for barbecue-style seafood and meats. Offers a relaxed island atmosphere perfect after a day of exploring.

13. La Choza – Quito

Price: $15–30 per person
Location: Quito
Classic restaurant serving traditional Ecuadorian comfort foods such as fritada, hornado (roast pork), and humitas.

14. La Esquina de las Artes – Cuenca

Price: $15–30 per person
Location: Cuenca
Known for combining art and food, offering Ecuadorian and international fusion in a creative setting.

15. Café Mosaico – Quito

Price: $10–25 per person
Location: Quito
Beloved for its stunning panoramic views of the city. Serves Ecuadorian favorites like empanadas alongside international comfort foods.

Tips for a Memorable Culinary Experience in Ecuador

• Try national dishes: Don’t miss ceviche, hornado, llapingachos (cheese-stuffed potato patties), and fanesca (Easter soup).

• Visit local markets: Explore Otavalo, Cuenca, and Guayaquil markets for fresh fruits, street food, and snacks.

• Sample Ecuadorian chocolate: Ecuador produces some of the finest cacao in the world — indulge in artisanal chocolate tastings.

• Pair with local drinks: Try canelazo (hot spiced drink), aguardiente, or freshly squeezed tropical juices.

With this guide, you will savor the essence of Ecuador’s vibrant culinary scene while creating unforgettable memories across the Andes, Amazon, coast, and Galápagos Islands.