When staying at Zen Hotel, you’re not just surrounded by the stunning sights of Quito—you’re also minutes away from some of the city’s best culinary treasures. Here’s a guide to a day of eating your way through Quito, with must-try local dishes and where to find them, all conveniently close to Zen Hotel.
Morning Delight: Start Your Day with Empanadas de Viento
Begin your morning with one of Quito’s classic street foods—empanadas de viento. These airy, cheese-filled pastries are fried to a golden crisp and lightly dusted with sugar, making them the perfect breakfast or mid-morning snack. Visit Cafe Mosaico or one of the local vendors near Zen Hotel for this savory and sweet delight.
Why Try It? It’s a light, crispy start to the day that blends Ecuadorian tradition with a satisfying cheesy bite. Perfect for fueling your morning adventures.
Lunch Break: Enjoy Locro de Papas, Ecuador’s Comfort Soup
As the day progresses, head to Mama Clorinda for a warm and comforting bowl of locro de papas. This creamy potato soup is a staple in Ecuadorian cuisine, often served with fresh cheese and avocado on top. It’s perfect for Quito’s cool climate and is sure to recharge you for an afternoon of exploring.
Why Try It? Locro de papas is more than just soup—it’s a taste of Ecuadorian home cooking that will keep you cozy and satisfied.
Afternoon Adventure: Grab a Quick Snack with Fritada
If you’re exploring Quito in the afternoon, make sure to stop for fritada, a traditional fried pork dish that’s served with corn, potatoes, and plantains. Las Fritadas near Zen Hotel is a great spot to try this hearty snack. Pair it with chicha, a local corn-based drink, to experience authentic Ecuadorian flavors.
Why Try It? Fritada is the perfect on-the-go snack or meal, offering a satisfying blend of crispy pork and savory sides
Sweet Treat: Cool Down with Helado de Paila
As the afternoon heat settles in, treat yourself to some helado de paila, a traditional Ecuadorian ice cream made in large copper pans. Heladería San Agustín, just a short drive from Zen Hotel, is famous for its exotic fruit flavors like naranjilla and guanabana. This refreshing dessert will be the perfect end to your culinary journey through Quito.
Why Try It? It’s a sweet, refreshing way to experience Ecuador’s tropical flavors, with a unique preparation method you won’t find anywhere else.
Dinner to Remember: Dive into Ecuadorian Ceviche
For dinner, head over to La Canoa, where you can try Ecuador’s take on ceviche. Made with shrimp or fish, marinated in lime juice and mixed with onions and cilantro, Ecuadorian ceviche is served with popcorn or plantain chips. It’s a refreshing and flavorful way to close out your day of culinary exploration.
Why Try It? Ceviche in Ecuador has its own unique twist, and trying it at a local favorite spot like La Canoa will make your dining experience unforgettable.
Conclusion: Quito’s Culinary Adventure Awaits
A day of exploring Quito’s culinary scene offers a diverse array of flavors, from light snacks to hearty meals and refreshing desserts. At Zen Hotel, you’re perfectly located to discover the best local dishes Quito has to offer. Whether you’re here for business or leisure, make sure to indulge in these must-try Ecuadorian classics during your stay.
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