This spectacular restaurant is said to have the best authentic Italian cuisine in the whole of Ecuador. The menu is bewilderingly extensive and you may want to factor an extra half hour into your evening simply to give you ample time to make a choice - though rest assured that whatever you go for you will leave happy and satisfied.

The starters are numerous, and include succulent seafood, lovely cheeses and scrumptious cold meats. The mains are true hearty Italian fare, and include homemade pasta - Italian style, of course - such as gnocchi, cappelletti, ravioli and tortellini. You can also choose between delicious risottos, wood-fired pizzas, and selection of meat and fish. If you still have room after all that, then you will delight at the range of desserts, which include such Italian classics as tiramisu, bigne and panna cotta.

The wine list at Al Portico is second to none, and includes both Italian wines and also Latin American wines; the knowledgeable staff will be able to advise on the best bottle depending on the dishes you order.

The restaurant and surroundings are utterly tranquil, away from the hustle and bustle of central Quito, and you can choose to either sit inside, or outside in the beautifully manicured gardens. Al Portico also has its own vegetable plot, from which it obtains the freshest ingredients for its dishes.

Families will find Al Portico incredibly child-friendly; there is even a play area and a number of roaming farm animals for them to pet.

Opening Times:

Wednesday - Sunday: 12pm - 10:30pm