Quito Food Guide

A Foodie’s Guide to Old Town Quito: Traditional Ecuadorian Flavors & Rooftop Views

Discover authentic Ecuadorian dishes, cozy food spots, chocolate, coffee, and rooftop breakfast views in Quito’s Historic Center.

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Ecuador’s culinary scene is one of South America’s best-kept secrets.
Rooted in Andean agriculture, native corn, high-altitude tubers, fresh fruits, coastal seafood, and traditional recipes, dining in Quito is a flavorful journey through Ecuador’s diverse regions.

If you are staying in Old Town Quito, you are surrounded by decades-old family eateries, cozy chocolate boutiques, local cafés, bakeries, traditional markets, and rooftop spots serving classic flavors with beautiful city views.

Here is your essential guide to eating your way through Quito’s Historic Center.

Traditional Flavors

Must-Try Traditional Ecuadorian Dishes in Quito

Quito is a wonderful place to discover Ecuadorian comfort food. Many dishes are warm, filling, and perfect for the city’s cool mountain climate.

From creamy potato soup to slow-cooked stews and sweet hot drinks, Old Town Quito offers flavors that connect travelers with the country’s Andean roots.

Iconic Dishes to Try

Locro de Papa A creamy Andean potato soup cooked with achiote and served hot with fresh avocado, local cheese, and ají chili sauce. Perfect for cool Quito afternoons.

Seco de Chivo or Pollo A rich, slow-cooked stew seasoned with spices, fruit juice, or beer, usually served with yellow rice and sweet fried plantains.

Fritada Slow-roasted pork served with molo, toasted corn nuts, mote, and traditional sides. A classic dish for travelers who want a hearty local meal.

Canelazo A warm spiced Andean drink made with cinnamon and fruit juice, often enjoyed in the evenings in Quito’s cool high-altitude weather.

Old Town Quito

Exploring Historic Quito’s Food Scene & Calle La Ronda

A short walk from Friends Hotel & Rooftop brings you to Calle La Ronda, one of Quito’s oldest pedestrian streets and a favorite place for visitors looking for local flavor.

Here, travelers can try giant fried empanadas, traditional sweets, Ecuadorian chocolate, local snacks, and warm drinks while enjoying the charm of colonial architecture.

Coffee, Chocolate & Local Bakeries

Quito is also a great city for coffee and chocolate lovers. Ecuador is known for high-quality cacao, and Old Town has several places where visitors can enjoy dark chocolate, handmade sweets, and rich hot drinks.

In the morning, look for local bakeries serving fresh bread, pan de yuca, pastries, and Ecuadorian coffee — a simple but delicious way to start the day.

Ecuadorian coffee chocolate and bakery in Quito

Breakfast with a View: High-Altitude Dining at Friends Rooftop

At Friends Hotel & Rooftop, great food is even better when paired with an unforgettable view.

Every morning, guests can enjoy breakfast high above the historic streets, with Ecuadorian coffee, fresh options, tropical fruit flavors, and views across Quito’s colonial rooftops and surrounding Andes mountains.

Rooftop breakfast at Friends Hotel in Quito

Taste the Real Ecuador at Friends Hotel & Rooftop

Whether you need restaurant recommendations near Calle Junín, want to book a local food tasting tour, or simply want to unwind with a cold Ecuadorian craft beer at sunset, the hotel team can help guide your culinary adventure.

Old Town Quito is full of flavors, stories, and local traditions waiting to be discovered.

Ready to Taste Quito?

Book your stay directly on the official website to receive the best available direct rate, a welcome drink, and rooftop breakfast perks during your visit to Quito.

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