Foodies visiting Quito and Guayaquil will not be disappointed with these trendy restaurants in Ecuador, offering mouth-watering menus that will leave them satisfied and coming back for more.
QUITO:
Most of these restaurants are located in the area of La Floresta close to the Mariscal nightlife district close to Hotel Le Parc, Mercure and Hostal de la Rabida.
URKO – Ecuadorian
Isabel la Catolica N24-862 y Julio Zaldumbide, Quito, Tel 2563-180
Urko offers contemporary dining that reflects the pure essence of locally sourced ingredients with a popular chef inspired degustation menu on Saturdays. The chefs will explain what they have created, so ask for seat at the counter by the kitchen if you’re interested. Urko has a great wait staff serving impeccable generous portioned Ecuadorian fusion, a wonderful experience.
LUA – Peruvian
Pontevedra N24-422 y Francisco Salazar Tel 5112-570, Quito
Alexander Lau is somewhat of a celebrity chef in Quito, and his restaurant is one of the most renowned in the entire country. The décor is minimalistic and pleasant enough not to steal focus away from the dishes. He specializes in Peruvian fusion cuisine with dishes like the tiradito parmesan (raw group fish served with light Italian cheese) or the soy-glazed tuna steak with ginger and pisco, are an expression of chef Lau’s Italian-Chinese heritage.
OSAKA – Asian
Isabel la Catolica E12-17 y Francisco Salazar, Quito Tel 3228-784
Osaka offers a fusion of Nikkei style Japanese and Peruvian dishe. With ceviche, sushi, hand crafted cocktails and a full bar, this modern, creative and trendy restaurant will not disappoint for fine Asian fare.
CHEZ JEROME – French
Whymper N30-96 y Coruna, Tel 223-4067, Quito
Chef Jerome Monteillet’s love for Ecuador is evident in the meticulous attention he pours into every single dish he creates. Characterized by a sophisticated and elegant décor, complemented by the presentation of a delicious menu and wide selection of wine, Chez Jerome is the ultimate French gourmet experience in Quito and all of Ecuador.  Pricy but worthwhile.
GUAYAQUIL:
All of these restaurants are located in Samborondon, a suburb of Guayaquil, a 15-20 minute ride from downtown, and close to Hotel Del Parque, a luxury boutique hotel opening in 2016.
LA TASCA DE CARLOS – Spanish
Km 1.5 via samborondon cc “La Torre”, Tel 283-6680, Samborondon, Guayaquil
Head Chef Alvaro San Juan of La Tasca de Carlos serves a variety of basque style Spanish foods and has a tapas bar.  The atmosphere is comfortable, service is friendly and portions are large. This is a great spot to bring your family.
DON FRANCIS GOURMET – International gourmet
Km 5 via samborondon, Plaza Lagos Tel: 501-9883Â Guayaquil
Located in the chic Plaza Lagos, an upscale shopping and entertainment center that has several restaurants, Don Francis stands out as one of the best in town. A first-rate, international high-quality gastronomic gourmet experience with elegant ambience, excellent attention and service – and a decent wine selection too. Pricey but worthwhile.
LA DONA – Mexican
Km 6.5 via samborondon, Plaza Lagos, Guayaquil Tel: 502-1566
If you are in the mood for Mexican, head to La Dona located in Plaza Lagos. The restaurant opened recently and is popular with locals and tourists alike. We think a margarita from La Dona is a great way to kick off a vacation!
EMBARCADERO 41 – Peruvian fusion, seafood
Via samborondon, Plaza Lagos Tel 502-5500, Samborondon, Guayaquil
Great location with excellent seafood and ceviches. You will have a difficult time picking an item to order with all of the delicious options. This welcoming and upbeat atmosphere will have you returning again soon for more.
LA PIZARRA – tapas with Ecuadorian flare
Km 6.5 Via Puntilla, Samborondon Plaza Lagos, Guayaquil
La Pizarra opened recently and is popular with locals and tourists alike. The restaurant is small and cozy, while the tapas are twisted with Ecuadorian flavors and innovative designs.
We encourage you to let your taste buds adventure through these delicious creations and taste the local flavors of Ecuador!
