Ecuador · tool
Quito food guide
Signature dishes, best food neighborhoods, and the dining etiquette that actually matters — all specific to Quito.
What to eat in Quito
6 signature dishes, 4 food-forward neighborhoods, and the etiquette you actually need to know.
Must-try dishes
Hornado de Chancho
Slow-roasted whole pig, marinated in spices and achiote, resulting in incredibly tender meat and crispy skin. It's a celebratory dish often found at markets and family gatherings.
Locro de Papa
A hearty, creamy potato and cheese soup, often enriched with milk and served with avocado and toasted corn kernels (maíz tostado). It's a comforting staple, perfect for Quito's cooler climate.
Fritada
Pork belly chunks are fried in their own fat until tender and slightly crispy, then often served with mote (hominy), llapingachos (potato patties), and pickled onions. It's a rich and flavorful pork dish.
Cuy Asado
Roasted guinea pig, a traditional delicacy often served whole. The meat is dark and has a unique, gamey flavor, typically seasoned simply and roasted until crispy.
Llapingachos
Pan-fried potato patties stuffed with cheese, often served with a fried egg, chorizo, avocado, and peanut sauce. They are a versatile side dish or a light meal on their own.
Empanadas de Viento
Sweet, fried empanadas filled with cheese and sugar, dusted with granulated sugar. They puff up when fried, hence 'de viento' (of wind), and are a popular snack.
Where locals eat — best neighborhoods
Bustling and diverse, with a mix of traditional eateries, international cuisine, and lively bars.
Charming and traditional, filled with colonial architecture and centuries-old restaurants serving classic Ecuadorian dishes.
Bohemian and trendy, known for its independent cafes, artisanal shops, and innovative restaurants pushing culinary boundaries.
A vibrant, chaotic, and authentic market experience offering a true taste of local life and affordable, delicious food stalls.
Dietary notes
Ecuadorian cuisine is traditionally meat-heavy, with pork and chicken featuring prominently. Vegetarian options can be found, especially in dishes centered around potatoes, corn, and beans, but veganism requires careful inquiry as dairy and eggs are common. Gluten-free options are generally available if sticking to naturally gluten-free ingredients like rice and potatoes.
Local etiquette
- •Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service; 10% is a common addition to the bill if satisfied.
- •Carry some cash, especially for market stalls and smaller eateries, though larger restaurants and shops accept cards.
- •Reservations are generally not needed for casual spots but recommended for upscale dining, especially on weekends.
- •Lunch is typically the largest meal of the day, eaten between 1 PM and 3 PM, while dinner is lighter and eaten later, around 7 PM to 9 PM.
Plan the rest of your Quito trip
Food guides elsewhere