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Best Italian Restaurants in Ecuador

Best Italian Restaurants in Ecuador

Curated guide featuring 7 outstanding restaurants, all rated 4.5+ stars

Home › Where to Eat › Best Italian Restaurants in Ecuador

Ecuador's Italian restaurant scene is a delightful surprise that rivals what you'd find in much larger South American cities. Nestled between the Andes and the Pacific, this small nation has cultivated an impressive collection of authentic Italian eateries where immigrant chefs and their descendants have been perfecting recipes for generations. From Quito's charming historic districts to Guayaquil's waterfront, these restaurants serve everything from delicate handmade pasta to wood-fired Neapolitan pizza, often with an Ecuadorian twist that makes the experience uniquely memorable.

This guide brings together ten exceptional Italian restaurants across Ecuador, each one carefully selected for its outstanding quality and rave reviews from diners. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 stars, these establishments represent the cream of the crop, from intimate family-run trattorias where the owner greets you at the door to elegant dining rooms perfect for special occasions. Whether you're craving a classic carbonara, fresh seafood risotto made with Pacific catch, or simply the best tiramisu outside of Italy, you'll find your new favorite spot in these pages.

Featured Restaurants

La Briciola
$$$

La Briciola

★★★★☆
4.7
(3,424 reviews)

La Briciola has earned its stellar 4.7-star rating from over 3,400 diners who appreciate its reliable meal delivery service in Quito's vibrant Isabel la Católica neighborhood. Travelers consistently praise this spot for bringing quality dining directly to their accommodations, making it perfect for jet-lagged arrivals or cozy nights in after exploring the city. Given its popularity and mid-range pricing, order during off-peak hours to ensure the quickest delivery times.

Av. Isabel la Católica 881 y, Quito 170143, Ecuador
Carmine
$$$$

Carmine

★★★★☆
4.6
(1,527 reviews)

Carmine has earned its stellar reputation among Quito diners with an impressive 4.6-star rating from over 1,500 reviews, suggesting consistently excellent food and service in an upscale setting. Travelers particularly appreciate the diverse menu options that showcase quality ingredients and careful preparation, making it a reliable choice for a special night out in the city. Given its premium pricing and popularity, reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend evenings when this local favorite fills up quickly.

Catalina Aldaz N34-208 y, Quito 170135, Ecuador
Trattoria Piccolo Mondo
$$$

Trattoria Piccolo Mondo

★★★★☆
4.5
(1,337 reviews)

This beloved Guayaquil gem has earned its stellar reputation among over 1,300 diners who appreciate its welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu offerings. Travelers consistently praise the quality and consistency that keeps locals and visitors returning, making it a reliable choice in the city's dining scene. Book ahead for weekend evenings when this popular spot fills up quickly, and don't hesitate to ask the knowledgeable staff for their current recommendations.

Bálsamos 504, Guayaquil 090511, Ecuador
Riviera Restaurant in Guayaquil
$$

Riviera Restaurant in Guayaquil

★★★★☆
4.6
(1,040 reviews)

Located in one of Guayaquil's prime dining districts, Riviera Restaurant has earned its stellar reputation with over a thousand glowing reviews, drawing both locals and visitors with its diverse menu that caters to varied tastes. The consistently high ratings suggest attentive service and quality preparations across their offerings, making it a reliable choice whether you're craving international flavors or regional specialties. Given its popularity and mid-range pricing, consider making a reservation during peak dinner hours to secure your spot at this neighborhood favorite.

Victor Emilio Estrada, Guayaquil 090507, Ecuador
Benvenuti Da Mauro
$$

Benvenuti Da Mauro

★★★★☆
4.7
(723 reviews)

Benvenuti Da Mauro has earned its stellar 4.7-star reputation from over 700 diners who appreciate its welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu offerings in Guayaquil's popular Urdesa Central neighborhood. The restaurant's impressive rating suggests consistently excellent service and quality dishes that keep both locals and travelers coming back. With moderate pricing and its location on a bustling street, it's worth making a reservation during peak dinner hours to secure your spot at this beloved establishment.

Urdesa Central Av. Las monjas #214 entre calle 1era y, Calle Segunda, Guayaquil 090507, Ecuador
La Caponata
$$

La Caponata

★★★★☆
4.6
(641 reviews)

Nestled in Quito's historic center on García Moreno, La Caponata has earned its stellar 4.6-star rating from over 640 diners who appreciate its diverse menu offerings and welcoming atmosphere. This moderately priced gem consistently delivers quality across various cuisines, making it a reliable choice whether you're craving local flavors or international favorites. With such strong reviews, it's clearly a crowd-pleaser, so consider arriving early during peak lunch and dinner hours to snag a table without the wait.

García Moreno, Quito 170401, Ecuador
Café San Blas
$

Café San Blas

★★★★☆
4.8
(447 reviews)

This beloved neighborhood café has earned an impressive 4.8-star rating from hundreds of visitors who appreciate its welcoming atmosphere and quality coffee at budget-friendly prices. The high praise from nearly 450 reviewers suggests consistently excellent service and reliable café fare that keeps both locals and travelers coming back. Arrive during morning hours for the freshest pastries and a chance to experience the café at its liveliest, when you'll see why it's become such a favorite in Quito's café scene.

José de Antepara E4-09, Quito 170136, Ecuador
098 701 5442

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