12 Best Affordable Restaurants to Eat in Quito

If you think Ecuadorian cuisine is overlooked, just wait until you step into the vibrant streets of Quito. This city, nestled high in the Andes, is a treasure trove of culinary delights waiting to be discovered. Are you ready to explore where to eat in Quito, enjoying delicious meals without breaking the bank? Let’s dive into some of the best local spots that promise to tantalize your taste buds.

Where to eat in Quito

From savory fish dishes to hearty menestras, Quito offers a rich tapestry of flavors. Whether you’re craving a hangover remedy like chachukiiii or searching for a breakfast spot with stunning views, this city has it all. Here’s a curated list of top restaurants where you can eat well and affordably in Quito.

* We strive to keep our recommendations current, but sometimes changes happen. If you find any of these places closed or notice price differences, please let us know so we can update our list. Thank you! 🙂

Las Corvinas de Don Jimmy

Located in the Mercado Central, this cozy spot is famous for its house specialty: corvina with potatoes and mixed ceviche for just $6. The flavors are vibrant, making it a must-try for seafood lovers.

Las Menestras De La Almagro

For a fulfilling meal, head to this restaurant known for its hearty menestras. This traditional Ecuadorian dish features a combination of rice, eggs, beans, and an extra protein option like chicken or beef. Expect to spend around $5 to $7 per person.

If you're interested in more about Quito's history and culture, consider joining a free walking tour to explore the city with a local guide.

Mote Colonial

Another affordable gem, Mote Colonial, serves up a delicious Mote fritada, which includes mote, fried pork, chicharrón, empanadas, ripe plantains, and potatoes for only $5. This dish is a true Ecuadorian comfort food.

Diosolopay

For a quick and affordable midday meal, look no further than Diosolopay, located within the Centro Cultural Metropolitano. Their daily menu, priced around $6, includes three courses, perfect for a satisfying lunch.

Hornado Riobambeño

Hornado, a succulent roasted pork dish seasoned to perfection, is a highlight of Ecuadorian cuisine. This restaurant offers a delightful combo of hornado with corn and potato tortillas for about $4, making it both tasty and budget-friendly.

Encebollados Los del Triangulo

No trip to Ecuador is complete without sampling an encebollado, a savory fish stew. At this local favorite, you can enjoy a generous serving for $3.50, alongside a shrimp ceviche for $6.90 and patacones for $1.20. It's a meal that embodies the coastal flavors of the country.

La Petite Mariscal

This charming spot offers a daily menu priced at approximately $5, featuring a starter and a main dish. You can check their Instagram for the daily offerings, which often highlight seasonal ingredients.

La Casa de la Humita y Tamal Lojano

For an authentic Ecuadorian dining experience, this restaurant is a standout. With friendly service and deliciously affordable food, we savored a chicken soup, empanadas, and humitas (corn tamales) for under $10 for two. It’s a delightful spot worth visiting.

Takoyaki de la Foch

Located near Plaza Foch, this Japanese eatery specializes in takoyakis, a beloved street food. If you're in the mood for international cuisine, this is the place to be.

Vista Hermosa

As its name suggests, this restaurant boasts a stunning panoramic terrace offering breathtaking views of Quito. On weekends, you can enjoy live music while savoring your meal, making it a perfect outing for both food and entertainment lovers.

Cafetería Modelo

This iconic café in downtown Quito is renowned for its traditional menu. However, reports suggest that the quality has fluctuated recently. It’s worth a visit to see if it still lives up to its legendary status.

Café Mosaico

With its terrace views, this café offers one of the best sunset experiences in the city. Whether you're there to sip a drink or enjoy a meal, it's advisable to reserve a table near the railing for the best views. Prices here are slightly higher, but the scenery makes it worthwhile.

Map of restaurants where to eat in Quito

Check the map below to find the locations of these fantastic cafés and restaurants where you can dine well and affordably in Quito. Access it on your device to see which spots are nearby:

Until now, we hope our recommendations for restaurants in Quito help you make the most of your culinary journey in Ecuador’s capital. If you know of any other spots that deserve a mention, we’re all ears!

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