High-altitude flavors: Your guide to Quito’s culinary scene

Welcome to Quito, a city that quite literally takes your breath away. Perched high in the Andes mountains, Ecuador’s capital is a sprawling, spectacular mosaic of well-preserved colonial history, vibrant modern culture, and an incredible culinary renaissance. For the independent traveler—the kind of explorer who values authentic discovery over tightly scheduled tour buses—Quito is a treasure trove. When you plan your route with Wheely Tyred, you are making a commitment to travel at your own pace, soaking in the sights, sounds, and most importantly, the flavors of your destination.

Eating well is central to any great journey. In Quito, the dining scene is evolving rapidly, drawing on the country’s insane biodiversity. From the Amazon basin to the Pacific coast and the Andean highlands, chefs here have an incredibly rich larder to pull from. Whether you are arriving after a scenic train ride, a long-distance cycling route, or a meandering bus journey through the mountains, sitting down to an unforgettable meal is the ultimate reward. Below, Wheely Tyred has curated the absolute best spots to eat and drink in Quito. These are not tourist traps or generic chains; they are distinctive, highly acclaimed establishments that will give you a deep, delicious knowledge of the city.

At a Glance: Quito’s Culinary Highlights

• Nuema: A world-renowned destination offering an avant-garde tasting menu that highlights Ecuador’s stunning biodiversity
• Zazu: An elegant, upscale dining experience blending flawless techniques with magnificent coastal seafood and Andean flavors
• Somos: Chef Alejandra Espinoza’s colorful, modern homage to her Ecuadorian roots, featuring inventive and globally inspired local cuisine
• La Purísima: Traditional recipes elevated with creative twists, served in the charming, historic setting of a colonial art studio
• Bandido Brewing: A lively, rustic craft brewery hidden within an 1850s colonial building—perfect for a well-earned pint

Nuema

If there is one dining experience in Quito that commands the attention of global food enthusiasts, it is Nuema. Proudly holding the title of the first Ecuadorian restaurant to land on the prestigious Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants list, this visionary establishment is leading the charge in redefining the nation’s culinary identity. Helmed by Chef Alejandro Chamorro and his wife, the world-renowned pastry chef Pía Salazar, Nuema is not just a meal; it is an expedition across Ecuador’s diverse ecosystems.

The approach here is entirely tasting-menu focused, changing with the seasons and the availability of hyper-local ingredients. As an independent traveler, you will appreciate the deep respect Nuema pays to the land. You might find yourself enjoying a kaleidoscopic arrangement of oxalis petals, fresh coastal tuna, or intricate Andean tubers that have been elevated to fine art. The dining room itself is modern, minimalist, and serene, centered around a beautiful indoor tree that anchors the space. Service is attentive and deeply knowledgeable, yet refreshingly devoid of pretension. It is an ideal setting to slow down, reflect on your travels, and let the incredible stories of Ecuador’s farmers and foragers unfold on your plate.

Zazu

For those evenings when you want to trade your travel gear for something a little more refined, Zazu is an absolute must-visit. Recognized globally and holding the distinction of being a Relais & Châteaux property, Zazu delivers an upscale dining experience that remains incredibly warm and inviting. Situated away from the typical tourist hubs, it provides a sanctuary of spectacular food, impeccable service, and one of the best wine cellars in the city.

The menu at Zazu is a brilliant collision of coastal influences and high-altitude ingredients. The ceviche here is legendary, prepared with an expertly balanced leche de tigre and the freshest shrimp and catch of the day. But Zazu doesn’t shy away from hearty, traditional elements either; their modern take on cuy (guinea pig) is famously tender and approachable, reinvented with sophisticated cooking techniques like confit. For the independent traveler who likes to curate their own dining rhythm, the option to share a variety of extraordinary appetizers or commit to a full tasting menu makes Zazu a flexible, luxurious highlight of any Quito itinerary.

Somos

Located in the heart of Quito, Somos translates to We are in Spanish—and the restaurant truly is a vibrant reflection of the people, colors, and flavors of Ecuador. Chef-owner Alejandra Espinoza grew up in Ecuador before studying in France, and her restaurant is a beautiful synthesis of global technique and fierce local pride. The dining room is a cheerful, beautifully designed shrine to Ecuadorian materials and craftsmanship, making you feel instantly welcome the moment you walk through the door.

For travelers who want to eat well without the stiff formality of traditional fine dining, Somos strikes the perfect balance. The menu is bold, colorful, and packed with good humor. It actually encourages you to plan with the end in mind by placing the desserts at the front of the menu! You can dive into playful yet elevated dishes like pulled guinea pig dumplings, cassava-crust pizzas, or deeply flavorful encocado stews. The atmosphere is relaxed but energetic, making it an excellent spot to debrief after a long day of exploring Quito’s historic center. It is modern Ecuadorian food cooked with immense joy.

La Purísima

Tucked away in the historic old town, La Purísima is a hidden gem that beautifully marries history, art, and gastronomy. Situated within a colonial art studio on a quiet street—just a short stroll from the main historical plazas—this restaurant is highly rated for its dedication to authentic, traditional Ecuadorian recipes given a thoughtful, modern polish. For the traveler who seeks out those rare, localized experiences that cannot be replicated anywhere else, La Purísima is a revelation.

The menu here focuses on dishes that evoke the comforts of an Ecuadorian home kitchen, elevated through meticulous sourcing and presentation. Diners regularly praise their locro de papa (a traditional potato and cheese soup) and incredibly flavorful seafood dishes like crab soup and baked eggplant with lentils. Beyond the food, the ambiance is truly magical. You are often serenaded by a live pianist, and the hospitality is legendary—do not be surprised if you are welcomed with complimentary pre-starters or a strong, local Ecuadorian liqueur. It is an intimate, cultural dining experience that feels like a well-kept local secret.

Bandido Brewing

Because every great journey requires a great watering hole, your Quito itinerary needs a stop at Bandido Brewing. We know that independent travelers—especially those spending days on the road or navigating busy transit systems—appreciate a laid-back environment where they can mingle with locals and fellow wanderers over a high-quality pint. Located in a historic 1850s building near the Iglesia de San Agustin in the Old Town, this American-style microbrewery has become a cornerstone of Quito’s exploding craft beer scene.

Bandido Brewing is charmingly rustic, with an atmosphere that leans into its historical setting. The beers are brewed in small, passionate batches, featuring unique, sometimes exotic local ingredients that add an Ecuadorian twist to classic styles like IPAs and stouts. It is the perfect place to grab a pint, enjoy some excellent pub grub, and map out your next route. It isn’t pretentious, it isn’t overly polished—it is simply a fantastic, atmospheric bar with great beer and an even better sense of community.

Frequently asked questions about the best restaurants in Quito