Quito: Street Food Essentials to Enjoy

Are you looking for the best street food in the Ecuadorian capital of Quito? Do you want to take your taste buds on a culinary adventure like no other? You’ll be pleased to know that Quito – the current world’s oldest city – has a vast selection of street food vendors who can provide you with enough variety to sate your longing for something new and unique. From traditional dishes like ceviche to classic staples like chorizo, you can find enough variety in Quito to provide yourself with a delicious and memorable meal. When visiting Ecuador, you’ll want to experience the best of what the country has to offer: its incredible street food, which brings together diverse flavors and textures. From tacos and empanadas to plantains and ceviche, there are plenty of delicious street food options to discover. Quito is no exception, with a smorgasbord of options available all across the capital city.One of the most popular street food dishes in Quito is ceviche: a simple seafood dish consisting of cooked fish, chopped onions, coriander and chili peppers. This simple yet flavorful dish is served as an appetizer or as a main course and is usually enjoyed with a side dish such as tostada chips or yucca. Another classic you will find in Quito is salchipapas: french fries with sauce, ketchup, onion, and your choice of meat-like sausage, ham or chicken. This dish is perfect for any occasion and is a wonderful way to experience classic Ecuadorian flavors in a convenient and delicious way.Choripan are sausages grilled on a barbeque or in a pan. These sausages come with a bun and various condiments including ketchup and mayonnaise which are combined in one single dish containing everything from the spicy sausage to the mild mayonnaise. Another classic is salchi-papas, which consists of fried potatoes with sausage and usually ketchup.Much like tacos, empanadas are an essential dish in Quito. These tasty wheat pastry snacks are often filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables and deep fried until crispy. If you’re looking for something more substantial, look into fish empanadas which often contain tuna as well as some seasonings. If you’re craving something sweet, plantains – optionally served with either honey or condensed milk – are some of the most popular dessert street food items available in Quito. You can find plantains served as is or mashed into something close to a dumpling. The sweet plantain paste comes in small or large form and is often accompanied with syrup or other sweet toppings. Quito’s unique climate makes it an excellent place for growing tropical fruits which form the basis for many of its traditional street food dishes. Among the many fruits available are feijoa (a sour sweet tasting fruit), lulo (a small, tangy yellow fruit) and saramunga (a sweet orange fruit). These fruits are used in many of the juice bars and stands around Quito and provide a refreshing complement to any other dish you may have during your stay.Last but certainly not least, you will want to grab a cup of coffee while touring Quito’s street food offerings. The local favorite is called black coffee – usually served thick and strong – but you can also find café con leche (coffee topped with steamed milk) and café de tines (coffee blended with cinnamon). There’s no doubt that street food in Quito offers an eclectic mix of flavors and ingredients that will delight your taste buds. From the delightfully salty salchipapas to plantains served in syrup, there’s something for everyone here. With this guide to street food essentials in Quito, you’re sure to experience something truly unique and enjoyable during your time there. When it comes to things to do, why not try a Plantains Baking Class or Food Tour? Booking these experiences with GetYourGuide will give you a great opportunity to learn more about Ecuadorian cuisine while enjoying the city. Happy eating!

Insider’s Guide to Quito – Discover the City’s Hidden Gems and Mouth-Watering Street Food

Quito, the stunning capital city of Ecuador, is a place where the old meets the new, a place where vibrant culture, history, and nature come together in harmony. From exploring the narrow streets of the historic center, savoring delicious street food, soaking in the local customs and festivals, to immersing oneself in the awe-inspiring Andean landscapes, Quito has something for everyone. Here’s our insider’s guide to help you make the most of your visit.

Local Attractions – Off the Beaten Path

While the historic center is a must-visit for first-time visitors, there are several lesser-known spots that are worth exploring. Head to the Panecillo hill to enjoy panoramic views of the city, and don’t miss visiting the La Compañía de Jesús Church, famous for its ornate interior, a vibrant example of the Baroque architecture of the Americas. Another hidden gem is the Guápulo neighborhood, a charming cobbled neighborhood that boasts excellent restaurants, quaint cafes, and art shops. Take a stroll along the winding streets, and soak in the captivating atmosphere.

Dining Spots – Savor Local Cuisine

Ecuadorian cuisine is a delightful blend of indigenous, African, and Spanish influences, making it unique and flavorful. Some must-try dishes include ceviche de camarones, a shrimp ceviche marinated with lime juice and chili powder, and locro de papas, a potato soup with cheese and avocado. Head to the Mercado Central, an iconic market that is known for its delicious street food, serving everything from empanadas, tamales, and humitas. Don’t forget to try the churrasco, a grilled steak served with rice, beans, and fried plantains.

Cultural Experiences – Embrace Local Traditions

Quito is a city of festivals, and there is always something to celebrate. One of the best-known festivals is La Fiestas de Quito, which takes place in December and is a vibrant mix of music, dance, food, and fireworks. The most famous event during this festival is the chiva party, where locals hop onboard a colorful, open-air bus and drink and dance their way through the city. Another significant cultural experience is the Otavalo Market, one of the most important indigenous markets in South America, where you can buy handmade textiles, crafts, and jewelry.

Local History – Get Immersed in the City’s Past

Quito is a city with a rich and complex history that spanned centuries. One of the best ways to get a glimpse into the city’s past is to explore the Museo Casa del Alabado, a beautiful colonial-era mansion filled with pre-Columbian art and artifacts. Also, don’t miss visiting the La Ronda neighborhood, one of the oldest streets in Quito, full of colonial-era houses, shops, and restaurants. It’s the perfect place to learn about the city’s history while enjoying the ambiance.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions – Unforgettable Experiences

Looking for something off the beaten path? Head to the Pichincha volcano, take a cable car to the summit, and soak in the breathtaking views of the Andean landscape from above. Another unique experience is visiting the Casa del Arbol, a rustic treehouse on the outskirts of the city, where you can ride a swing at the edge of a cliff, offering magnificent views of the Tungurahua volcano. It’s an experience that will stay with you forever.

Quito is a city that has something for everyone, from history buffs and foodies to nature lovers and culture vultures. It’s a city that will steal your heart with its charm, and this insider’s guide will help you discover the hidden gems, savor the delicious street food, and immerse yourself in the local traditions.