In Quito’s bustling food scene, traditional Ecuadorian lunches offer excellent value and authentic flavors. The capital’s best lunch spots combine local ingredients with centuries-old cooking techniques. Small, family-run restaurants serve hearty almuerzo (set lunch) menus featuring fresh soups, grilled meats, and local sides.
I especially love the historic San Francisco market food stalls, where $5 gets you a complete meal with soup, main course, and fresh juice. The colonial-era Casa Gangotena‘s courtyard lunch is another favorite, offering refined versions of classic dishes in a stunning setting.
These carefully selected lunch experiences showcase the best of Quito’s midday dining culture:
Key Points
- The Hacienda La Danesa Day Trip offers a unique opportunity to experience Ecuadorian countryside with a three-course Ecuadorian lunch and various farm activities.
- The Quilotoa Lagoon Full-Day Tour includes a delicious lunch while exploring the breathtaking emerald-colored Quilotoa Lagoon.
- The Guayaquil City Tour & Chocolate Farm provides a comprehensive experience with a traditional Ecuadorian lunch as part of the tour.
- The Banos Tour Experience features a lunch stop at a local candy factory, providing a chance to savor Ecuadorian culinary delights.
- The Quilotoa Tour Highlights include a lunch option as part of the tour, allowing visitors to enjoy a meal while exploring the stunning Quilotoa Lake.
Quilotoa Tour Full Day With Lunch
Although the drive from Quito to Quilotoa Lake can be lengthy, the Quilotoa Tour Full Day With Lunch is a popular excursion that offers visitors a chance to witness the stunning turquoise waters of the volcanic crater lake.
With a 96% recommendation rate from 24 reviews, the tour features an artisan workshop visit in Tigua and the opportunity to hike down to the lake. Lunch is included, along with the option to kayak for $3.
The tour ends with a visit to Toachi River Canyon. While some travelers noted the bus ride could be rough, the overall feedback highlights the beautiful scenery, knowledgeable guides, and enjoyable hikes, making it a worthwhile experience.
Read our full review: Quilotoa Tour Full Day With Lunch Review
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Banos Tour From Quito With Tickets and Lunch
Departing from Quito, the Banos Tour offers visitors a comprehensive experience showcasing the natural wonders and cultural highlights of this captivating region.
Travelers can enjoy private transportation, a bilingual guide, and a range of inclusions such as the Devil’s Cauldron, a swing at the “end of the world,” and a cable car ride to the Manto de la Novia waterfall.
The tour also features a visit to a local candy factory, lunch, and water.
With a 5-star rating from 8 reviews, this tour provides an excellent opportunity to explore the best of Banos while savoring delicious cuisine.
Priced from $200 per person, the tour is suitable for most travelers, excluding those who are pregnant or require wheelchair access.
Read our full review: Banos Tour From Quito With Tickets and Lunch Review
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Day Trip to Hacienda La Danesa With Horseback Riding and Lunch
The day trip to Hacienda La Danesa offers visitors a unique and immersive experience in the Ecuadorian countryside.
Guests can enjoy horseback riding, chocolate making, cow milking, and cycling through scenic mountain passes with a local Montubio cowboy. The three-course Ecuadorian lunch features fresh, local ingredients, including vegan and vegetarian options.
Optional activities include tubing on the river, biking, or simply relaxing at the farm. Transportation is provided from Guayaquil, and all necessary safety equipment is included.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness. With an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on 5 reviews, this day trip promises an unforgettable agricultural experience.
Read our full review: Day Trip to Hacienda La Danesa With Horseback Riding and Lunch Review
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Full-Day Tour to Quilotoa Lagoon From Quito With Lunch
This full-day tour from Quito whisks travelers to the stunning Quilotoa Lagoon, a breathtaking emerald-colored volcanic crater lake in the Andes mountains.
Priced from $57.99 per person, the tour includes lunch, private transportation, and a bilingual guide. Visitors can enjoy optional activities like horse riding and kayaking, and are advised to dress warmly and comfortably for the mountainous terrain.
With a maximum group size of 15, the tour provides a personalized experience. Based on the single 5-star review, this appears to be a popular and well-executed tour offering a chance to explore Quilotoa’s natural beauty.
Read our full review: Full-Day Tour to Quilotoa Lagoon From Quito With Lunch Review
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Guayaquil City Tour & Chocolate Farm With Typical Lunch PRIVATE Day Trip
Travelers seeking a comprehensive introduction to Ecuador’s cultural and culinary delights will find the Guayaquil City Tour & Chocolate Farm with Typical Lunch PRIVATE Day Trip a captivating experience.
Priced from $249 per person, this private tour offers a full day of exploration, including private transportation, an English-speaking guide, and a visit to a local chocolate farm.
Highlights include the Aerovia cable car, a traditional Ecuadorian lunch, and the chance to learn about the country’s rich chocolate-making heritage.
With flexible pickup options and a cancellation policy that allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour provides a convenient and customizable way to discover Guayaquil’s top attractions.
Read our full review: Guayaquil City Tour & Chocolate Farm With Typical Lunch PRIVATE Day Trip Review
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Private Day-Trip to Otavalo From Quito With Traditional Lunch
Set out on a captivating private day-trip from Quito to the renowned Otavalo Market. For $159 per person, you’ll enjoy private transportation, a professional guide, entrance fees, lunch, and tips.
The tour starts at Plaza Foch, where you’ll meet your guide at the Juan Valdez Café. Though not wheelchair accessible, this moderate-level adventure is suitable for most travelers, excluding those with back problems, pregnant women, or serious medical conditions.
After exploring the vibrant market, you’ll savor a traditional lunch during the return trip, which ends at the original meeting point.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, this private tour offers flexibility and an authentic Ecuadorian experience.
Read our full review: Private Day-Trip to Otavalo From Quito With Traditional Lunch Review
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Full Day Hike and Bike Experience Cotopaxi Volcano With Lunch
Explore the majestic Cotopaxi Volcano on a full-day hike and bike adventure from Quito.
This 5-star rated tour takes you on a private journey to Ecuador’s iconic Cotopaxi National Park. Enjoy bilingual guidance, private transportation, and a delicious lunch.
Admire the volcano’s breathtaking views while hiking and biking, and warm up with a hot drink or soup at the refuge.
Dietary accommodations are available, and you’ll receive free cancellation and rescheduling up to 24 hours before the experience.
With a maximum of 15 travelers, this tour provides an intimate and unforgettable adventure in the Ecuadorian Andes.
Read our full review: Full Day Hike and Bike Experience Cotopaxi Volcano With Lunch Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Fit My Preferences?
Yes, most tour providers allow customers to customize their itinerary to fit their preferences. This gives travelers the flexibility to tailor the experience to their interests and needs, ensuring a more enjoyable and personalized tour.
What Is the Maximum Group Size for These Lunch Experiences?
The maximum group size for these lunch experiences varies, but most providers offer small group options, often capping at 10-15 participants. This allows for a more personalized and intimate dining experience.
Are Vegetarian/Dietary Restriction Options Available for the Lunch Meals?
Many lunch experiences in Quito offer vegetarian and dietary restriction options to accommodate diverse needs. Restaurants often provide flexible menus that can be customized to individual preferences, ensuring an enjoyable dining experience for all.
Can I Book Private Transportation for These Day Trips With Lunch?
Yes, many tour providers in Quito offer private transportation options for day trips with lunch. This allows for a more personalized and flexible experience, and can accommodate dietary restrictions. Booking private transport is a convenient choice for exploring Quito.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for These Lunch Tour Packages?
The cancellation policy for these lunch tour packages typically allows for full refunds if cancelled at least 24-48 hours in advance. Shorter notice may result in partial or no refund, so it’s best to check the specific policy before booking.
The Sum Up
Quito offers an array of exceptional lunch experiences. Visitors can explore the stunning Quilotoa Lagoon, unwind in the charming town of Baños, or venture to Hacienda La Danesa for horseback riding and a traditional meal. Whether seeking a day trip or a multi-activity adventure, Quito provides diverse options to savor the local cuisine while immersing in the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.