Advertisement

Steakhouse Restaurants in Ecuador

If you’re craving steak while in Ecuador, you’re in for a treat. Ecuadorians have a serious love for good meat, especially in places like Guayaquil’s Urdesa or Quito’s La Mariscal where grills never cool down. Don’t expect the same cuts as back home; here, the most popular steaks often come from local cattle like “Novillo” or “Chancho Criollo,” and they tend to be leaner but packed with flavor.

Some steakhouses serve their meat with plenty of traditional sides,rice, plantains, and even mote (hominy),which you really should try if you want the full experience. Also, keep an eye out for local specials that change with the season. My favorite spot in Quito is Casa Julián, a no-frills joint where the steak is juicy but never greasy, and the papa criolla (a type of yellow potato) is addictive. And hey, salsa or chimichurri? Go for both if you can.

If you’re in coastal areas like Manta or Salinas, the steaks might come with fresh seafood options nearby, making for an interesting mix. Pro tip: Order your steak medium rare here; overcooked meat tends to dry out. If you want to eat like a local, pair it with a cold Ecuadorian beer or try a glass of tinto quiteño, the local red wine.
Part of the My Guide Network Since 2006 180+ destinations
Search by Map

Book Top Experiences and Tours in Ecuador:

If you're booking your trip to Ecuador last minute, we have you covered. Below are some of the top tours and experiences.

View All Experiences

Quick local tips for steak lovers

If you find yourself in Quito, try the steakhouses around La Floresta or the quieter streets near González Suárez. Those neighborhoods have some of the best local joints that avoid the tourist trap prices. Ever tried 'Bastón de Bife'? It’s a popular dish there with a unique Ecuadorian twist on classic ribeye cuts.

Also, watch how the locals eat it: steak often comes with a side of llapingachos, which are potato patties stuffed with cheese. Pair your meal with a fruit-infused agua loca or a glass of canelazo if it’s cooler outside. Trust me, a steak in Ecuador isn’t just about the meat,it’s an entire flavor combo that’s worth exploring.

Frequently Asked Questions

Got questions about steakhouses in Ecuador? Here’s what folks usually want to know.

Not really. While steakhouses can be pricier than casual eateries, many spots offer great value. You’ll find quality cuts and portions that fill you up without breaking the bank, especially outside tourist hotspots.

Local cuts like 'Novillo' and 'Entraña' are common and quite tasty. The meat is usually leaner than what you might expect back home, but well-seasoned and often grilled over wood fire.

Most places close around 10 or 11 p.m., especially outside the bigger cities. In Quito and Guayaquil, you might find some spots open a bit later, but it’s best not to show up too late expecting dinner.

Some steakhouses offer a few side dishes or salads, but they’re mostly about the meat. If you’re vegetarian, better to look for other types of restaurants, although you might get lucky with a grilled veggie platter here and there.

A 10% tip is customary if the service is good, but it’s usually not included in the bill. Servers appreciate it, but it’s not mandatory either.

Some places serve mild ají sauces alongside chimichurri, nothing too fiery but with a kick. Don’t expect blazing hot sauces like in Mexico, but if you like a little spice, ask,they’ll often bring some.

Explore Restaurants Categories

Seafood (141 places) Ecuador and seafood are practically inseparable. If you’re anywhere near the coast, you’ll see fish markets selling fresh catch before breakfast even starts. Cities like Manta, Salinas, and Esmeraldas have restaurants where the ceviche practically melts in your mouth,fresh, tangy, and made with local lemons that pack… Explore
International (26 places) If you’re craving something beyond Ecuadorian cuisine, the international restaurant scene here won’t disappoint. In Quito’s La Mariscal neighborhood, you can find everything from Italian trattorias with homemade pasta to slick Japanese spots serving fresh sushi. But don’t just stick to the capital,Cuenca has its own… Explore
Italian (22 places) Italian food in Ecuador is a bit of a mixed bag, but if you know where to look, you can find some genuinely tasty spots. Quito and Guayaquil have the most options, but even smaller cities like Cuenca surprise with a few family-run places. Expect the usual pizza and pasta, sure, but don’t be afraid to try out… Explore
Coffee Shop (18 places) Explore
Typical Ecuadorian (18 places) The typical Ecuadorian embodies a rich blend of indigenous, European, and African heritage that shapes the vibrant culture of Ecuador. Family plays a central role in daily life, with close-knit relationships and community bonds forming the foundation of social interactions. Ecuadorians are known for their warmth… Explore
Top Rated - Restaurants (16 places) When you’re hunting for the best places to eat in Ecuador, it’s helpful to lean on genuine traveler reviews. The restaurants featured here earn their spots through strong ratings and lots of feedback from actual visitors, not editorial picks or one-off five stars. That means you’re more likely to enjoy food and… Explore
Pub (16) • Breakfast (12) • Japanese (12) • Latin American (11) •

Top Things To Do in Ecuador

See All →

Top Things To Do in Ecuador

Click to See All

Trusted local guides, read by millions every month

  • 2006 online since
  • 27.8M page views a month across the network
  • 14 languages

180+ destination guides, one network

Every guide covers a single destination on its own website, with events, restaurants, things to do and places to stay chosen from local recommendations.

My Guide Network Locations

Nearby Destinations

Also nearby: My Guide Puerto RicoMy Guide BarbadosMy Guide Cuba

See all destinations

Add to your trip
Day {[{day.day}]} {[{day.dateFormat}]}
MorningAfternoonEvening

Add your travel dates so we can place this on the right day, or save it for later.

Add to day {[{trip.popover.day}]}Add to trip Cancel
Added to your trip Added to day {[{trip.toast.day}]}, MorningAfternoonEvening Saved to your trip Already in your trip Transfer saved to your trip Save your trip to get fresh suggestions Staying in {[{trip.toast.label}]} Base cleared Trip deleted Link copied Could not save your trip Something went wrong, please try again