Whether looking for typical Ecuadorian fare or a classy cheeseburgers, high-end dining or off-the-beaten-path, Ecuador's variety of restaurants is sure to please.Here's our guide to ten of the best restaurants Quito has to offer.
Sur, meaning "South", prides itself on high-quality food with Argentinian influence. Specializing in all kinds of meat from chorizo to lamb, Sur takes care to also pair its dishes with choice wines, mainly imported from Argentina and Chile, and specialty drinks.
Walking on Andalucía, one of the quieter streets of Quito's La Floresta neighborhood, your thoughts may be interrupted by a rather large "R" sign. It is Red Burger Society, and do they have burgers! They have mediterranean burgers, they have sliders, they have BBQ and falafel burgers. They have got burgers with Fontina, Provolone, Blue and Gruyere cheeses. While wings and other entrees are available, if you like burgers then Red Burger Society is the place to go in Quito.
Bocabierta not only boasts delicious vegetarian fare but also offers a feast for the eyes: from floor to ceiling funky artwork encompasses the restaurant, giving it a cool vibe. The daily lunch option mixes Ecuadorian staples such as rice and beans with global dishes. The dinner menu invites you to try a seitan sandwich or garbanzo bean burger, or a meatless Hawaiian pizza. Try the spiced Vino Hervido (hot wine) or a cappuccino as you sit back and enjoy some live music.
Set in Quito's historic center, Cedron, the restaurant of boutique hotel Casa Gangotena, provides upscale Ecuadorian food. For a look into the kitchen check out Casa Gangotena's "Meet Our Chef" Video, which demonstrates the philosophy and methodology behind their food, as well as some great shots of Quito. Focusing on the traditional Ecuadorian foods such as the potato-based soup "Locro de papa" and then giving them a gourmet twist, this restaurant offers innovative, traditional Ecuadorian cuisine.
Step inside La Naranjilla Mecánica and you feel that you've stepped into the pages of the book after which it is named, A Clockwork Orange. You'll find modern art, a room entirely lined with fur and dalmation-patterned couches to sit on, making this bar-restaurant- art gallery unlike any other venue in Quito. Additionally, La Naranjilla Mecánica often hosts live music or touring bands.
Even the non pie-lover will love Lucia Pie House. Located near the large Carolina park, this bright restaurant is a must for both its food and its atmosphere. There's a lengthy menu of American-style food including many delicious dessert options, so save room for pudding.
Upon walking the streets of the blossoming La Floresta neighborhood of Quito you will come across the colorful exterior of the particularly striking Zoko. This "gastro-pub" offers fresh American-style dishes. For an Ecuadorian spin, try the Maracuya (passionfruit) artisanal beer.
Like the neighborhood it finds itself in, Ananké has a bohemian theme. Their menu includes more than just pizza, with a variety of foods, desserts and drinks like the traditional canelazo. For the best view, opt for a table on the second floor overlooking the city lights.
For high-quality Italian cuisine, with an emphasis on the "gastronomic dishes", try Carmine. Named after the head chef himself, this classy house-turned-restaurant is found near La Portugal. Italian dishes such as Risotto, Caprese Prosciutto, Pasta e fagioli and Swordfish Carpaccio are just a sample of what Carmine has to offer.
Urko is a place where chefs have fun with food. Based on the traditional meals of Ecuador, the chefs use traditional ingredients like Yuca (a common south-american starch), plantain or fish and give them a twist. For example, the famous Ecuadorian "Ceviche", a common cold soup usually served with seafood, is reinvented as a Banana passionfruit Ceviche.