The delicious side of Quito

When you think of Quito, Ecuador, images of colonial architecture and scenic volcanic vistas might come to mind. But dig a little deeper, and you’ll find a vibrant food scene that’s just waiting to be explored. For anyone curious about authentic Ecuadorian cuisine, the “Delicious Side of Quito” tour offers a flavorful journey through the city’s most iconic tastes and places. With a price of $65 per person, lasting around three to four hours, this experience provides a well-rounded taste of Quito’s culinary heartbeat, led by knowledgeable guides who are passionate about sharing their city’s flavors.

Two things we especially appreciated on this tour are the intimate visits to local huecas (small eateries) and the chance to sample traditional dishes like encebollado and mote con chicharrón right where Quito locals enjoy them. The tour’s combination of market visits, sweet treats, and cultural insights means you’ll finish with much more than just a full stomach — you’ll come away with a deeper appreciation for Ecuadorian food and culture.

One consideration to keep in mind is that the tour is quite active, with a good amount of walking and tasting at several stops. If you have dietary restrictions or prefer a more relaxed pace, it’s worth noting that the schedule is quite packed.

This experience suits curious food lovers, first-time visitors eager to understand local cuisine, or anyone wanting a behind-the-scenes look at Quito’s culinary traditions. Whether you’re traveling on your own, with a partner, or as a family, this tour offers a genuine bite of Quito’s authentic flavors.

Key Points

• Authentic Ecuadorian cuisine: Enjoy traditional dishes like encebollado, empanadas, and mote con chicharrón.
• Local markets: Explore Mercado de San Francisco, one of the city’s oldest markets, with fresh fruits, vegetables, and medicinal plants.
• Sweet treats and coffee: Indulge in paila ice cream and Ecuadorian coffee at historic Calle La Ronda.
• Expert guides: Led by bilingual guides (English, Spanish, Italian), who share stories along with tastings.
• Value for price: The tour includes numerous tastings and market visits, offering a comprehensive culinary experience.
• Meet locals: Stops at famed huecas give a glimpse into everyday Quito life and flavors.

A Perfect Introduction to Quito’s Flavors

This tour is a delightful way to start your visit to Quito. For $65, you get roughly three to four hours of guided tastings that go beyond just eating — they tell stories of local traditions, ingredients, and history. Led by guides who are fluent in English, Italian, and Spanish, the experience feels personalized and accessible.

One of the most charming aspects is how it manages to combine a tour of historic markets with the pleasure of tasting fresh, traditional dishes. It’s a smart way to get your bearings in the city while satisfying your curiosity and appetite.

Carefully Planned Itinerary

The tour’s route is thoughtfully designed to give a well-rounded taste of Quito’s local cuisine and culture. Here’s what you can expect:

Palacio Arzobispal: Sweets and Mysteries

The tour begins at the Palacio Arzobispal, close to Independence Square. Here, you’ll indulge in traditional Quiteño sweets and learn the intriguing story behind Mistelas—small bites with a history as rich as their flavor. The guide might share some fascinating tidbits about these confections, making your first taste more meaningful. Expect about 15 minutes here, with free admission.

Mercado de San Francisco: The Heart of Local Produce

Next, the vibrant Mercado de San Francisco beckons, one of Quito’s oldest markets. It’s a riot of colors and aromas, with stalls selling tropical fruits, vegetables, and medicinal plants. Here, you’ll have the chance to sample fresh natural juices and the famous Mote con Chicharrón, a beloved local dish combining corn and crispy pork. This stop is about 30 minutes, and the tour fee covers your entrance. You’ll see the hustle and bustle that Quito’s residents have relied on for generations.

Las Delicias de Don Viche: A Flavorful Bite

Moving on to Las Delicias de Don Viche, a well-known hueca, the small restaurant where locals flock. Here, you’ll taste encebollado, a hearty fish stew served with bread or plantains. The guide will explain the dish’s significance and ingredients, making it more than just a tasty bite. Expect about 15 minutes at this stop, with included admission.

Calle La Ronda: Sweets and Ecuadorian Coffee

In Calle La Ronda, the historic street lined with cafes and artisan shops, you’ll indulge in the famous paila ice cream—a traditional Ecuadorian treat served in a copper bowl—and enjoy a cup of aromatic Ecuadorian coffee. This part of the tour lasts about an hour, giving you time to soak in the historic ambiance, enjoy the sweet and caffeine fix, and take photos. It’s a perfect blend of flavor and atmosphere.

DonCho Chocho y Choclo: Cevichochos and Local Delights

The next stop at a hueca specializing in Cevichochos—a unique Ecuadorian snack combining ceviche-style flavors with chicharrón (fried pork). The guide will share stories behind this delicacy, making the tasting richer. About 15 minutes here, with included admission.

Los Jugos De La Sucre: Empanadas and Juices

For a quick, crunchy snack, you’ll visit Los Jugos De La Sucre, renowned for their empanadas. These are large, satisfying bites, perfect for sharing or savoring alone. At just 10 minutes, this stop offers a chance to try one of Quito’s most beloved street foods, with all the flavor and freshness you’d hope for.

Yumbos Chocolate: The Sweet Finale

The tour wraps up at Yumbos Chocolate, where Ecuador is famous for its high-quality cacao. Here, you’ll enjoy a tasting of Ecuadorian chocolates — widely recognized as some of the best in the world. This sweet ending leaves a lasting impression and is a highlight for chocolate lovers. About 30 minutes are dedicated to this decadent treat.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour includes extensive tastings: empanadas, encebollado, mote con chicharrón, natural juices, paila ice cream, sweets, and chocolates. Plus, a bilingual guide and photos to remember your trip. The price covers all these experiences, making it quite good value considering the variety and authenticity.

However, it’s important to note that additional food outside the tastings and tips are not included, so budget accordingly if you want to extend your culinary explorations afterwards. Also, the tour doesn’t provide transportation, so comfortable walking shoes and a willingness to explore on foot are essential.

Authenticity and Guides

Based on reviews, guides like Grace and Kevin stand out for their friendly demeanor and depth of knowledge. One traveler noted, “Kevin was great! We tried lots of great foods and learned about culture and history.” Having a bilingual guide enhances the experience, especially for travelers who want to understand the stories behind each dish.

The Value of the Experience

When weighing the $65 price tag, consider what you’re getting: a curated sequence of tastings, market experiences, and cultural insights that go beyond just eating. It’s an efficient way to sample a broad spectrum of Quito’s flavors in just a few hours, especially valuable for visitors with limited time or those eager to jumpstart their culinary curiosity.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This tour appeals primarily to adventurous eaters eager to try local dishes and sweets. It’s also perfect for first-time visitors who want to understand Quito’s food scene without wandering aimlessly. Family groups and solo travelers alike will find it engaging, especially given the small group size—max 16 people—creating a friendly, intimate atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

Overall, The Delicious Side of Quito offers a mix of history, culture, and, most importantly, delicious bites. It’s a smart choice for those interested in authentic local flavors, guided by friendly experts who share stories along with samples. You’ll come away with not just a full stomach but a better understanding of Ecuadorian culinary traditions.

If you’re ready to explore Quito’s food scene beyond restaurants and street stalls, this tour promises a fun, flavorful, and enriching experience. Whether you’re a chocolate connoisseur or just love discovering new tastes, it’s a good bet for a memorable part of your trip.

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
Most tastings are focused on traditional Ecuadorian dishes like encebollado and empanadas, which often contain seafood or meat. Vegetarians might need to ask the guide about alternatives or bring additional snacks.

How much walking is involved?
The tour involves visiting several locations within the city, including markets and historic streets. Expect to walk at a moderate pace, with stops in between.

Can I join this tour if I don’t speak Spanish?
Yes, guides are bilingual and can communicate comfortably in English, making the experience accessible for non-Spanish speakers.

What’s the best time to take this tour?
The tour starts at 10:00 am, ideal for a morning adventure. It’s best to wear comfortable shoes and bring some water for hydration.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, including families. Keep in mind that some stops involve tasting strong flavors or spicy foods, so consider your children’s preferences.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 16 travelers, ensuring a more personal and engaging experience.

Is the tour suitable for people with food allergies?
It’s best to inform the guide of any allergies beforehand, as the tastings include common ingredients like seafood and nuts.

Are drinks included?
Yes, bottled water and natural juices are part of the experience, and you’ll also taste Ecuadorian coffee and chocolate.

Can I extend my tasting experience outside the tour?
Yes, but additional food or drinks beyond the included tastings are not covered. Feel free to explore further on your own afterward.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a small backpack for any extra purchases, and an open mind ready for new flavors.

In short, this tour offers a lively, authentic peek into Quito’s culinary soul, led by guides who make food both fun and educational. It’s a flavorful way to start or deepen your Ecuador adventure, especially if you love discovering local dishes and markets firsthand.