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.