A Taste of the Andes: Quito’s Essential Culinary Destinations
Quito, a city built on the dramatic slopes of the Andes, offers a culinary scene as layered and captivating as its history. The food here is a direct reflection of Ecuador’s incredible biodiversity, drawing on ingredients from the highlands, the coast, and the Amazon. Eating in the city is less about passing trend and more about tradition, with dishes emphasizing hearty, locally-sourced produce like corn, potatoes, and high-quality meats, alongside fresh seafood and a vibrant array of tropical fruits.
To dine in Quito is to engage with the city’s character. Whether you are savoring a meal in a grand colonial building or a vibrant, modern space, the atmosphere—often complete with stunning views or historical charm—is integral to the experience. The best restaurants understand this mandate, offering authentic, excellent food in settings that allow you to fully soak in the culture, history, and unmistakable Andean ambiance of Ecuador’s capital.
Here are the restaurants that successfully merge outstanding cuisine, compelling atmosphere, and excellent value for the discerning visitor.
Historic Center: Ambiance and Traditional Excellence
The Old Town (Centro Histórico) is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its restaurants frequently offer historical settings with unmatched views.
Hasta la Vuelta Señor
Located on the third floor of the historic Palacio Arzobispal, this restaurant is a non-negotiable visit for its atmosphere. Reviews consistently highlight the stunning vantage point over the Old Town, which is particularly enchanting at night. The cuisine is solid and traditional Ecuadorian fare, perfect for a visitor wanting a full cultural experience. While a little pricier by local standards, the combination of authentic dishes, excellent service, and the singular, elevated setting makes it a worthwhile investment.
Vista Hermosa
As the name suggests (“Beautiful View”), the main draw here is the magnificent, panoramic perspective of Quito’s colonial center. Situated inside one of the downtown’s tallest buildings, it offers both an indoor dining room and a heated terrace. The menu is a balanced mix of typical Ecuadorian treats—such as locro de papas (potato soup) and seco de chivo (goat stew)—and standard international dishes. With live music in the evenings and a reputation for being an ideal spot for special occasions, the appeal is the full package: a great setting, good food, and a romantic or festive atmosphere.
Café Plaza Grande
This refined, yet accessible, spot within the Hotel Plaza Grande is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the pleasures of traditional Ecuadorian cuisine from every region. Reviewers praise the authentic selections, which are often accompanied by traditional music, enhancing the cultural feel. The location directly on the Independence Square (Plaza de la Independencia) is unbeatable, providing a classic, upscale atmosphere for enjoying staple dishes in the heart of the capital.
Pims
Also recognized for an incredible view of the Historic Center, Pims offers a trajectory of distinction that blends international flavors with the delights of Ecuadorian gastronomy. It’s often cited for providing one of the best overall views of the city, making the dining experience visually captivating. It presents a slightly more innovative approach to local cuisine, appealing to those who want a memorable meal with a breathtaking backdrop.
La Purísima
Located in the Old Town, La Purísima is celebrated for its warm, comfortable atmosphere and excellent service. The focus is on beautifully created and presented Ecuadorian dishes. It’s an excellent choice for visitors seeking a traditional restaurant experience that delivers on both execution and presentation without the high-end prices of a gourmet establishment.
Modern & Fusion: Innovation on Local Ingredients
These establishments, often in the newer districts, offer a contemporary spin on Ecuador’s deep culinary roots.
Achiote Ecuador Cuisine
Situated in the quaint La Mariscal area, Achiote is a respected name for taking Ecuadorian fare to a gourmet level. The atmosphere is one of traditional warmth, nestled among colonial villas, making it a cultural experience as much as a dining one. Reviews consistently praise the inventive, high-quality Ecuadorian dishes, which often feature fruity sauces and generous salads, all cooked with fresh, local ingredients. This is a must for visitors looking for a refined, modern take on traditional flavors.
De La Llama
Near La Carolina Park, De La Llama is a contemporary gem known for creative fusion cuisine using local ingredients at reasonable prices. The setting is described as a charming old house with a beautiful, intimate llama-themed patio. Reviewers rave about the fresh, creative takes on local products—sometimes blending Ecuadorian flavors with Asian or Middle Eastern influences. It offers an upscale dining experience on a budget, with outstanding food and a friendly, hip atmosphere.
Chulpi Urbano
This restaurant is all about an exciting gastronomic journey with an innovative menu that highlights the rich flavors of Ecuador. Signature offerings like roasted pork belly and corn ice cream, along with its famous multi-course tasting menu, showcase a commitment to modern technique and artistry. With a cozy ambiance and a reputation for exceptional service, it appeals to food enthusiasts who want to see the future of Ecuadorian cuisine.
Miskay
Miskay is a lovely, cozy restaurant recognized for its authentic Ecuadorian cuisine and genuinely welcoming staff. It’s highly praised for attentive service and excellent value for money, making it a great, no-fuss option for visitors who want delicious, traditional dishes like ceviche and cuy (guinea pig) in a relaxed setting.
Coastal & Regional Specialties
Ecuador’s coast is famous for its seafood, and these spots bring those flavors to the capital.
Cevichería Siete Mares
For outstanding and authentic coastal flavors in the city, Siete Mares is a popular choice. The name alone hints at a dedication to seafood. Reviewers confirm its status as an excellent place for high-quality, delicious ceviche. It’s known for being very popular and offering great value, a reliable destination for a fresh and flavorful meal without the tourist price tag.
La Canoa
While information is less detailed, La Canoa (The Canoe) typically suggests a focus on coastal or regional, possibly Guayaquil-style, food. Restaurants with this theme usually offer hearty fish, shrimp, and plantain-based dishes in a family-friendly atmosphere, providing a taste of the lowlands in the high Andes.
Ila
While specific details on Ila are limited in broader travel reviews, in a city with such a rich food heritage, a restaurant with a simpler, often indigenous name can signal an authentic, focus on ingredients or a specific regional cuisine. It is a local favorite for its honest interpretation of Ecuadorian flavors, often in an unpretentious setting.
Dedicated Local Favorites
These locations excel at specific, traditional Ecuadorian comfort foods.
Palacio de la Fritada
A must-visit for trying fritada, the famous fried pork dish. This is a good place to experience classic Ecuadorian comfort food. Reviews highlight the quality of the traditional food—specifically the fritada—and the friendly service. It is clean, offers an authentic taste of local life, and often draws a mix of locals and tourists seeking this particular culinary staple.
Humitas Tradicionales
This spot is self-explanatory: it specializes in humitas, a traditional indigenous dish made from fresh ground corn mixed with cheese, butter, and seasonings, wrapped in a corn leaf, and steamed. For a true taste of a traditional, classic snack or light meal beloved across the Andes, this dedicated restaurant ensures the highest quality and most authentic preparation. It’s a great value stop for an essential part of the Ecuadorian diet.