Quito cacao inspired gourmet tasting menu

This was exactly the kind of experience I love when I travel: beautiful, cultural, intimate, educational, and just a little indulgent. I booked this thinking I was going to a cacao and wine tasting. What I experienced was much more sophisticated than that. It was a beautifully paced culinary journey showing just how versatile cacao can be — particularly in savory dishes, which completely changed the way I thought about chocolate. Each course was presented like a little piece of art. The flavors were thoughtful and unexpected, the wine pairings complemented the meal beautifully, and even the cocktail felt intentional rather than simply an add-on. I especially enjoyed seeing cacao presented in so many different forms instead of everything being sweet. What really elevated the experience was the education woven throughout the meal. We weren't simply eating; we were learning about cacao, tasting different elements, asking questions, and understanding a little more about its importance in Ecuadorian food culture. It never felt like a lecture — it felt like having a wonderful conversation over an extraordinary meal. The restaurant itself was warm, stylish and intimate, and the service was attentive without being intrusive. From the opening drink through the beautifully plated savory courses, dessert, cacao tastings and the final little sweets, the entire experience felt considered. And come hungry. This is not a couple of pieces of chocolate and a sip of wine. 😂 It is a genuine multi-course dining experience. For travelers who enjoy food, wine and experiences that give you a deeper connection to a destination, I would absolutely recommend this. It was one of those afternoons where I walked away thinking, Now THIS is why I travel. Five stars — and one of my favorite experiences ever.

+2

This took place in a really amazing small restaurant which used to be the home of a renowned Ecuadorean artist . The quality of the food, the explanations, the detail of everything chocolate and how it is made, whilst trying amazing flavours and Ecuadorean food was simply perfect. Ernesto the guide and host is fascinating, a real foodie and restaurant owner himself so he knows where is good - as well as chocolate and coffee we tried local delicacies, types of chilli’s, local breads and vegetables and wines in a very relaxed setting with perfect table staff. I can’t recommend highly enough

Excellent food, well beyond expectations. Very creative uses of the cacao pod. Location and tour guide were also excellent.

Absolutely wonderful experience. Best meal ever. Highly recommend this. This was the best experience we had in our time in Ecuador

Highlight of my time in Quito and probably the best lunch in a lifetime. Santi and the crew at the restaurant were great. Cant recommend this enough!

The highlight of my time in Quito and probably the best food experience of my life. Highly recomend this experience to all the foodie travelers

Loved this delicious cacoa-themed lunch. Food was incredible and enjoyed the variety of foods we tried with great explanations. Santi was an engaging guide and we enjoyed the conversation as well as the meal. The restaurant staff were also excellent and welcoming, as was the restaurant's vibe.

Host restaurant was excellent. We had lovely interaction with the chefs and sommelier. Food was amazing. Would highly recommend for a local food experience with various influences from the cacao bean.

Foodie Tour was a fantastic tasting. It’s worth doing again. Each dish was exceptional and the Chefs and Sommelier explained how they use the cacao (cocoa bean) in each prepared dish. [No, it’s not just chocolate!] Our added bonus ‘Yapa’ was our guide: Mr Neto, who was very knowledgeable on the food, Quito, Ecuador and South America! He was kind enough to help and guide me on getting some gifts to take back home! This was my most favourite activity of my 2 week trip to Ecuador!

I wasn’t sure what to expect and it was fantastic. Pamela, my guide, she was so friendly and caring and the man who provided the explanations and food samplings along with a welcome drink and 2 sampling glasses of wine. They are able to provide if you don’t drink alcohol or if you have food allergies/sensitivities, I am sorry, I don’t recall the name of the man who provided the information, but, he was very knowledgeable and kind. Everything we had had something to do with chocolate. Whether it was the cacao oil, powder, solid chocolate…. It was something I would not have thought to do but am so glad I did it.