We are thrilled to announce Ecoventura will host another special culinary departure this fall, featuring Chef Santiago Nieto of Casa Julian, Guayaquil’s top-rated restaurant, located in the historic Hotel del Parque and a proud member of Relais & Châteaux. Together, we aim to immerse our guests in the authentic flavors and traditions of Ecuador’s coastal cuisine from November 17-24 2024, during our 7-night sailing, Itinerary A – Beaches & Bays.
A Symphony of Flavors with Chef Santiago Nieto
Santiago Nieto, Executive Chef of Casa Julian, is renowned for his techniques of blending traditional with unexpected flavors, creating dishes that are as delightful as they are surprising. Santiago is driven by his desire to ensure guests enjoy every aspect of their dining experience. He hopes to introduce our guests to the rich gastronomic heritage of Ecuador, deeply rooted in the diverse cultures that have influenced the country.
He aims to evoke joy in those who taste his dishes, focusing on unconventional cuts and products that often go unnoticed in markets.
Culinary Pioneers of the Galapagos
Ecoventura has been a pioneer in promoting Ecuadorian cuisine since its inception. Our onboard menus celebrate the culinary heritage of all four regions of Ecuador, with 53% of ingredients sourced directly from the Galapagos Islands. Aboard our luxury expedition yachts—Origin, Theory, and Evolve, all proud members of Relais & Châteaux—every meal is a testament to the richness of our lands.
Chef Estuardo Vilela of Evolve encapsulates this ethos perfectly, stating, “Our culinary landscape is as rich and varied as our land. A new generation of visionary chefs is putting Ecuador on the global gastronomic map with their boundless creativity and innovative flavors.”
Join Us for a Culinary Adventure
Our culinary departures are not just about extraordinary meals; they’re about experiencing the cultures and traditions that shape them. To amplify our culinary commitment, we’ve partnered with Relais & Chateaux properties across Ecuador to curate two exclusive culinary departures in 2024. In May, guests were treated to Chef Cristian Puente’s expertise from Pikaia Lodge, a Relais & Châteaux property on Santa Cruz Island. Guests enjoyed an exclusive farm-to-table experience and menu meticulously crafted by Chef Puente.
This November’s departure with Chef Santiago promises to be a highlight of our culinary series, which will continue into 2025 with more creative talents from across Ecuador and Latin America.
Ecuador is rapidly becoming a culinary hotspot in Latin America. With three of our restaurants earning spots on the prestigious Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants list— including Nuema at #11, where the 2023 World’s Best Pastry Chef showcases his talent—our culinary ambitions are as high as our mountains and as deep as our seas.
Join us this November and delve into the flavors, the people, and the landscapes of Ecuador. Embark on a journey that promises not only to delight your palate but also to enrich your understanding of what makes our cuisine truly unique!
