Private Famous Food Tour of Historic Old Town in Quito

Introduction

If you’re eager to get a real taste of Quito’s culinary scene, this Private Famous Food Tour of Historic Old Town offers just that—an authentic, flavorful journey through the city’s most beloved bites and vibrant markets. For $95 per person, you’ll spend about four and a half hours with a knowledgeable bilingual guide, visiting iconic eateries, historic plazas, and lively streets, all while sampling some of Ecuador’s signature dishes.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines history with food—you’re not just munching your way through Quito, you’re learning about its traditions and local life at the same time. The visit to the Central Market gives you a real slice of daily Quito life, and the stops at historic plazas provide cultural context, enriching every bite. Plus, the inclusion of local beverages and artisanal chocolates makes it a well-rounded experience.

A possible consideration is that this tour involves quite a bit of walking and some uneven cobblestones, especially around La Ronda street and the historic plazas. So, it’s best suited for those with moderate physical activity levels. Also, the tour is private, so you get personalized attention, which can be a bonus or a drawback depending on your preference for group travel.

This experience is perfect for food lovers, history buffs, and anyone wanting an immersive introduction to Quito’s authentic flavors. Whether you’re arriving early in your trip to get oriented or looking for a deep dive into local cuisine, this tour offers a tasty, insightful, and enjoyable way to explore Quito.

Key Points

• Authentic Ecuadorian cuisine: Sample classic bites like quesadillas, mote, ceviche, and seco de chivo.
• Cultural immersion: Visit historic sites such as Plaza Grande, San Francisco Church, and La Ronda street.
• Local markets: Experience the sights, sounds, and smells of Mercado Central, a true window into everyday Quito.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable bilingual guides enrich your understanding of Quito’s food traditions.
• Value for money: All tastings, a traditional lunch, coffee, and drinks are included, making this a comprehensive experience.
• Private tour: Customized attention guarantees a relaxed pace and tailored commentary.

In-Depth Review of the Tour

Starting Point – Mercado Central

Your culinary adventure kicks off at Mercado Central, a bustling hub of activity where locals buy fresh produce, meats, and snacks. Here, you’ll taste local fruit juice and sample quirky endemic fruits—an introduction that immediately immerses you in Ecuador’s natural bounty. Your guide explains the market’s vibrant atmosphere, helping you navigate the stalls and understand the significance of each food item.

We loved how this part of the tour offers a glimpse into everyday life. The sights and smells of the market create an authentic setting, and trying mote surtido—a hominy dish with grains and pork bits—gives you a taste of traditional street food. Many reviews highlight the friendliness of guides and the opportunity to see the city’s daily rhythm.

Quesadillas in Quito

Next, a quick walk takes you to a vintage shop where Ecuadorian quesadillas are freshly baked. Unlike their Mexican counterparts, these quesadillas are sweet, fluffy, and crunchy—a true delight for your taste buds. The neighborhood around this spot is quintessential Quito, with colonial architecture and lively streets, giving you a sense of the city’s charm.

Participants often comment on the quality of the quesadilla—some describe it as the best in town—and appreciate the chance to try something truly local. The guide also makes a quick stop at La Basilica, overlooking the historic skyline—great for photos and soaking in the atmosphere.

Plaza de la Independencia (Plaza Grande)

From the lively streets, you move to the heart of Quito’s historic center, Plaza Grande. Here, the tour combines sightseeing with more food tastings—empanadas de morocho, Seco de Chivo (a goat stew), or a traditional ceviche, all served in a charming, century-old cafeteria. The local blackberry soda, Orangine, pairs perfectly with these dishes, offering a refreshing contrast.

According to reviews, this part of the tour is highly cherished. One guest noted, “We did this tour on our first day and it was a great way to get introduced to Quito and some of the typical foods of Ecuador.” The mix of cultural sights and flavorful bites makes this a highlight.

Coffee and Chocolate

Walking along pedestrian streets to the refurbished Teatro Bolivar, you’ll stop for a cup of Ecuador’s best coffee. The guide points out local coffee traditions and the importance of coffee in Quito’s social life. Then, a visit to San Francisco Church offers a chance to learn legends and myths of the city before indulging in premium Ecuadorian chocolate, renowned worldwide for its quality.

This segment appeals to chocolate lovers, and reviewers rave about the tasting experience. Many describe Ecuadorian chocolate as some of the best in the world, and the personal interaction with artisan chocolates makes this a memorable part of the tour.

La Ronda and Canelazo

The final stop is Calle La Ronda, one of Quito’s most picturesque streets. Here, you can taste Canelazo, a traditional hot cocktail served from clay jugs—perfect for warming up after a day of exploring. If luck is on your side, local pubs might be serving it in the old-fashioned way.

Guests often note the atmospheric street atmosphere and how the combination of food, drink, and street music creates a perfect ending to your Quito culinary journey.

Price and Value

While $95 per person might seem steep for a food tour, the price includes all tastings, a traditional lunch, coffee, chocolate, soda, private transportation, and an expert guide. This comprehensive package offers value, especially considering the variety of experiences packed into 4.5 hours.

Many travelers, like one reviewer who said, “Andres was very informative about all the food and locations,” find that the personalized attention and depth of information make this worth every penny. Plus, the private nature allows you to customize the experience slightly and ask questions freely.

Practical Considerations

• Walks involve cobblestones and uneven surfaces, so comfortable shoes are a must.
• The tour operates starting at 11:00 am, making it ideal for a late breakfast or brunch.
• Bring small bills for optional extra purchases—reviewers highlight that vendors prefer cash and sometimes don’t give change for larger bills.
• The tour is suited for people with moderate physical fitness, as there’s a fair amount of walking and standing.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is best for foodies, cultural explorers, and travelers who love to combine sightseeing with tasting. It suits those interested in authentic local cuisine, as well as anyone wanting a relaxed, private tour that offers personalized insights. If you’re looking for a comprehensive introduction to Quito’s food and streets, this tour hits the sweet spot.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
Approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, allowing enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Is the tour private?
Yes, this is a private experience, so only your group will participate, ensuring personalized attention.

What’s included in the price?
All tastings and snacks, a traditional lunch (ceviche or goat stew with empanadas), coffee, chocolate, soda, and private transportation are covered.

Are drinks outside the itinerary included?
No, additional food or drinks not listed are not included, and vendors prefer small bills for purchases.

What are the start times?
The tour begins at 11:00 am, ideal for late breakfast or brunch.

Is there any physical activity involved?
Yes, expect walking through markets, plazas, and cobblestone streets. Moderate fitness is recommended.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly mentioned, children who enjoy walking and tasting foods will likely enjoy it, but consider the walking involved.

What about dietary restrictions?
The itinerary focuses on traditional Ecuadorian foods; special dietary needs should be communicated in advance.

Summary

This private Quito food tour provides a detailed, delicious, and insightful introduction to Ecuadorian cuisine amidst the city’s historic backdrop. You’ll enjoy authentic bites, learn local stories, and experience the lively streets of Old Town, making it a perfect choice for those who want to combine history, culture, and culinary adventures. The knowledgeable guides, tasty stops, and flexible, private setup make it an excellent value for travelers seeking a genuine, comfortable exploration of Quito’s flavors.

Whether you’re a first-timer wanting a broad overview or a seasoned foodie eager to sample local specialties, this tour offers a memorable, engaging way to connect with Quito’s soul through its food. Just wear comfortable shoes, bring some small bills, and get ready to eat your way through one of South America’s most charming colonial cities.