French Restaurants in Ecuador

French cuisine in Ecuador might surprise you more than you'd expect. Sure, Quito has the better-known places like Le Marais in La Floresta, a small spot where the croissants are almost as good as in Paris. And in Guayaquil, you’ll find Le Bistró, which nails classic dishes like duck confit and a mean ratatouille. But French food here isn’t about fancy plating or huge menus , it’s about intimate vibes and honest cooking.

One thing locals love is the off-menu specialties. At some spots, if you’re lucky and ask nicely, you might get a seasonal cassoulet or a velvety soupe à l’oignon that’s not listed. Also, try going on a weekday evening when it’s quieter, so you’ll have a better chance of chatting with the chef about where they get their cheeses or which local markets they trust.

Keep in mind that Ecuador’s fresh seafood sometimes sneaks into the French menu, like a coquilles Saint-Jacques with shrimp instead of scallops,sounds odd but works. And if you’re around during Quito’s dry season (July to September), it’s a great time to enjoy an outdoor terrace with a glass of Bordeaux or something local like Casa Gato Malbec. You’ll be surprised by how well French and Ecuadorian twist together.