A Foodie’s Guide to Old Town Quito: Traditional Ecuadorian Flavors & Rooftop Views
Book Your Stay 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. Book Your Stay 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. 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. 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. CHAT ON WHATSAPP Contact Us We’re here to help with your booking or any questions about your stay. Junín Oe1-61, Quito 170401, Ecuador +593 96 092 0967 friendsquito@yahoo.com info@friendsquito.com Just 3 blocks from the Presidential Palace and Quito Cathedral, and only steps away from: Teatro Bolívar Teatro Sucre Museo de Arte Colonial Eugenio Espejo Convention Center Charming restaurants, cafés & cultural attractions Send us a message Questions about availability, rooms, or your booking? We’ll reply as soon as possible.
Visiting Quito in September: Weather, Packing & Travel Tips
Book Your Stay Quito Travel Guide Visiting Quito in September: Weather, What to Pack, and Seasonal Highlights Clear skies, mild temperatures, rooftop mornings, and the perfect season to explore Ecuador’s high-altitude capital. Book Your Stay September is one of the most rewarding times of the year to visit Quito, Ecuador. As the Andean spring transition begins, travelers enjoy mild temperatures, crisp morning skies, and fewer crowds after the busy summer holiday season. Whether you are arriving in Ecuador for an urban culture experience or making a stopover before heading to the Galápagos Islands, understanding Quito’s unique high-altitude climate will help you enjoy your stay with more comfort and confidence. Here is your complete guide to visiting Quito in September, including weather expectations, essential packing tips, and seasonal highlights. September Weather in Quito: Clear Skies & Cool Breezes Sitting high in the Andes at 2,850 meters above sea level, Quito experiences what locals often call “eternal spring.” September falls near the end of the dry season, making it a beautiful month for sightseeing, photography, walking tours, and outdoor exploration. Mornings are often bright and crisp, with clear views of surrounding volcanoes like Pichincha and Cotopaxi. Afternoons are usually mild, while evenings feel cooler and fresh. Daytime 19°C to 21°C Mild and pleasant for walking, sightseeing, and outdoor activities. Nighttime 9°C to 11°C Cooler evenings, especially after sunset. A jacket is recommended. What to Expect Sunny mornings Clear skies, cool breezes, and occasional light late-afternoon showers. What to Pack for High-Altitude Travel in Quito Because Quito sits right on the Equator but high in the mountains, the sun can feel intense during the day, while temperatures drop quickly once the sun sets. The secret to packing for Quito is simple: bring layers. This allows you to stay comfortable from sunny mornings to chilly Andean evenings. Essential Packing List 👕 Breathable Layers: T-shirts and long-sleeve shirts for warm mornings. 🧥 Warm Outerwear: A light jacket or fleece for chilly evenings. 🕶️ Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for strong equatorial sun. 👟 Comfortable Shoes: Sneakers or walking shoes for cobblestone streets. 🌦️ Rain Jacket: A compact waterproof layer for unexpected drizzles. 💧 Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated while adjusting to the altitude. Why September is One of the Best Months to Visit Traveling to Quito in September comes with several advantages for visitors who want beautiful views, cultural experiences, and a more relaxed atmosphere. Clear Mountain Views & Fewer Crowds September mornings often bring excellent visibility, making it a great time for panoramic photography, rooftop breakfasts, viewpoints, and scenic walks around the city. After the busy summer holiday season, travelers may also find a calmer rhythm when visiting cultural landmarks such as Plaza Grande, La Compañía Church, San Francisco Square, and the Historic Center. Perfect Weather for Rooftop Mornings September is a wonderful month to enjoy Quito from above. Cool mornings, soft sunlight, and clear skies create ideal conditions for rooftop breakfasts, city views, and peaceful moments before exploring the Historic Center. If you love photography, early mornings and golden-hour evenings are some of the best times to capture Quito’s colonial rooftops, church towers, and surrounding mountains. Experience September in Quito at Friends Hotel & Rooftop At Friends Hotel & Rooftop, located on historic Calle Junín, guests enjoy one of the best settings in the city for September’s clear skies and fresh Andean mornings. Wake up to breakfast on the rooftop while taking in views of colonial architecture, city rooftops, and distant mountain peaks. Planning Your September Getaway? Book directly on the official website to access the best direct rate, a welcome drink, and special seasonal perks during your stay in Quito. Book Direct & Save Contact Us We’re here to help with your booking or any questions about your stay. Junín Oe1-61, Quito 170401, Ecuador +593 96 092 0967 friendsquito@yahoo.com info@friendsquito.com Just 3 blocks from the Presidential Palace and Quito Cathedral, and only steps away from: Teatro Bolívar Teatro Sucre Museo de Arte Colonial Eugenio Espejo Convention Center Charming restaurants, cafés & cultural attractions Send us a message Questions about availability, rooms, or your booking? We’ll reply as soon as possible.
Why Booking Direct with Friends Hotel & Rooftop is the Smartest Way to Stay in Quito
Book Your Stay Book Direct & Save Why Booking Direct with Friends Hotel & Rooftop is the Smartest Way to Stay in Quito Get the best direct rate, exclusive perks, and local support for your Quito adventure. Book Direct Where you book matters just as much as where you stay. Planning a trip to Ecuador’s high-altitude capital is an exciting journey, whether you’re exploring the world-famous Historic Center of Quito or preparing for a bucket-list adventure to the Galápagos Islands. While Third-Party Online Travel Agencies, also known as OTAs, are useful for comparing options, booking directly through the official Friends Hotel website gives guests access to the best value, exclusive perks, and genuine local support from the moment the reservation is confirmed. Here is why booking direct with Friends Hotel & Rooftop makes all the difference for your Quito adventure. 💵 Best Direct Rate Book through the official website and access competitive direct rates without unnecessary third-party fees. 🎁 Exclusive Perks Enjoy special benefits created for direct guests, from welcome drinks to upgrades when available. 🤝 Local Support Communicate directly with the hotel team for transfers, tours, special requests, and local recommendations. Guaranteed Best Direct Rate When you reserve through the official website, you cut out the middleman. This allows the hotel to offer the best direct rate and seasonal promotions that may not be available on third-party platforms. Direct booking also makes the reservation experience more transparent, with easier communication and better access to updated information about your stay. Exclusive Perks Designed for Your Comfort Friends Hotel & Rooftop rewards guests who book directly with thoughtful boutique benefits designed to make their stay in Quito more comfortable, personal, and memorable. From arrival to breakfast, these details help guests enjoy a warmer and more connected experience. Direct Booking Benefits 🍹 Welcome Drink: Relax and settle in upon arrival with a complimentary drink. ⏰ Early Check-In: Priority early check-in, subject to availability. 🛏️ Room Upgrade: Enjoy a more spacious room or better view whenever available. ☕ Enhanced Rooftop Breakfast: Start your morning with breakfast and beautiful Quito views. 🚐 Tour Discounts: Access special guest rates on curated city tours and day trips. ✨ Exclusive Perks: Benefits you won’t always find on third-party platforms. Direct, Personalized Support for Your Ecuador Itinerary Need advice on navigating the historic streets of Old Town Quito, securing airport transfers, or arranging day trips to Mindo or Cotopaxi? When you book direct, you are in direct contact with the local team on Calle Junín. This means real people, local knowledge, and personalized support for your trip. Helpful for Galápagos & Amazon Travelers If Quito is your starting point before heading to the Galápagos Islands or the Amazon Rainforest, booking direct makes it easier to arrange practical details such as luggage storage, late check-outs, early morning airport taxis, or special requests. Celebrating an anniversary, needing specific breakfast options, or preferring a quiet room? Direct communication helps the hotel team handle your request with more personal care. Experience Historic Quito with More Peace of Mind Friends Hotel & Rooftop blends charming colonial architecture with warm, family-style hospitality. Located near Quito’s Historic Center, it allows guests to enjoy churches, plazas, cultural spots, and local experiences with easier access. By booking directly, every detail of your stay — from check-in to local recommendations — becomes smoother, clearer, and more personalized. Ready to Explore Quito? Book direct, access the best available rate, unlock exclusive perks, and experience true local hospitality in the heart of Quito. Book Direct & Save Today Contact Us We’re here to help with your booking or any questions about your stay. Junín Oe1-61, Quito 170401, Ecuador +593 96 092 0967 friendsquito@yahoo.com info@friendsquito.com Just 3 blocks from the Presidential Palace and Quito Cathedral, and only steps away from: Teatro Bolívar Teatro Sucre Museo de Arte Colonial Eugenio Espejo Convention Center Charming restaurants, cafés & cultural attractions Send us a message Questions about availability, rooms, or your booking? We’ll reply as soon as possible.
What to Do If You Get Sick in Quito
Book Your Stay What to Do If You Get Sick in Quito Traveling to Quito is a beautiful experience, but some visitors may feel mild discomfort during their stay, especially because the city is located high in the Andes. Quito’s altitude can affect some travelers during the first days. Common symptoms may include headache, tiredness, dizziness, shortness of breath, nausea, or difficulty sleeping. In most cases, these symptoms are mild and improve with rest, hydration, and a slower pace. Take it easy on your first day If you have just arrived in Quito, avoid planning too many activities on your first day. Walk slowly, drink water, eat light meals, and give your body time to adjust to the altitude. At the hotel, guests may request coca tea, a traditional option commonly used in the Andes to help travelers feel more comfortable with altitude adjustment. Be careful with water and food If you are coming from the Galápagos Islands or other destinations, your body may also react to changes in food, water, or climate. To avoid stomach discomfort, it is recommended to drink bottled water and be careful with homemade juices, street drinks, or beverages prepared with unknown water sources. Choose cooked meals, drink enough water, and avoid trying too many new foods at once if your stomach feels sensitive. Keep valuables hidden Avoid showing expensive phones, cameras, jewelry, watches, or large amounts of cash. Use your phone only when needed and keep it secure. Do not leave bags, phones, or wallets on restaurant tables or chairs. When to ask for medical help If you feel very unwell, have strong symptoms, or do not improve with rest, it is better to ask for medical assistance. Friends Hotel can help guests contact a doctor for a medical consultation, available at an additional cost. The hotel team can also assist with basic guidance, transportation if needed, and local recommendations. Travel tip Most travelers enjoy Quito without any major health problems. The best advice is simple: rest, hydrate, avoid rushing, protect yourself from the sun, and ask for help if you need it. Your comfort and safety during your stay are important. Contact Us We’re here to help with your booking or any questions about your stay. Junín Oe1-61, Quito 170401, Ecuador +593 96 092 0967 friendsquito@yahoo.com info@friendsquito.com Just 3 blocks from the Presidential Palace and Quito Cathedral, and only steps away from: Teatro Bolívar Teatro Sucre Museo de Arte Colonial Eugenio Espejo Convention Center Charming restaurants, cafés & cultural attractions Send us a message Questions about availability, rooms, or your booking? We’ll reply as soon as possible.