Guayaquil
This cavernous grocery is the most convenient downtown option for self-catering. Looks like a clothing store from outside.
Must-see restaurants in South Coast
South Coast
Hearty, piping-hot pizzas, plus pasta and hamburgers, in a packed fast-food-like setting (order at the counter).
South Coast
For midday snacks, nothing beats the piping-hot sweet rolls or dulce de leche–smothered pastries served here.
Guayaquil
A top spot for coffee, pastries and savory snacks, while strolling along 9 de Octubre.
Guayaquil
A friendly, family-run tavern serving up delicacies from the old world, with creamy tortillas, arroz negro con calamares (rice with squid ink and calamari…
Montañita
For a quick and cheap snack, head to this hippy-vibe cafe with informal inside and outside seating. It sells coffees, beers, slices of handmade pizza (the…
Puerto López
This friendly eatery, nothing more than a few outdoor tables, serves delicious Colombian specialties such as arepas (maize pancakes) and its namesake dish…
Guayaquil
This festive two-story spot on the malecón serves filling Ecuadorian classics like ceviche and shrimp soup, plus salads and mixed meat and rice dishes. It…
Puerto López
If your idea of raw fish isn't ceviche, this hipster hangout for New Yorkers, Argentinians and – oh yes, Ecuadorians – offers a decent selection of rolls,…
Guayaquil
This modern Ecuadorian chain on the malecón is a good option if you need a quick inexpensive fix while promenading the waterside. It serves typical dishes…
Montañita
A prime people-watching spot is Karukera, a small open-sided cafe serving pasta, lasagna, breaded shrimp, cakes and coffees. Note: it's only open in high…
South Coast
Right next to the church, Tertulia has the best location in town with outdoor seats facing Plaza de la Independencia. Inside, the small cafe has a stylish…
Guayaquil
The best and most popular of the neighborhood's Chifas doesn't look like much (with a cafeteria feel and red plastic chairs), but 8-28 serves up hearty…
Montañita
You’ll find Tex-Mex, Ecuadorian, seafood, paella and an excellent variety of sweet and savory crepes at Papillon. It's got a rustic feel with chunky…
Guayaquil
A longstanding hideaway perched over the Río Guayas, Artur’s serves ordinary Ecuadorian fare, but it's a lively starting point spot for a nighttime…
Montañita
A handy smattering of sandwiches, burgers and pizzas with a prime beachfront location, away from the closeness of downtown. Friendly staff and occasional…
Guayaquil
Carnivores feast on barbecue ribs, steak and chicken at this popular spot near the Plaza de la Merced. Just outside the restaurant is an affiliated food…
Guayaquil
Local chain selling sandwiches and cakes in an informal bakery setting. This is a good place to grab an inexpensive packed lunch or low-priced snack – the…
South Coast
Restaurant Jalisco, a local institution with plastic chairs, has been serving cheap almuerzos, seafood plates and ceviches for some 40 years. Ask about $2…
South Coast
Stretching for several blocks, Machala's massive (and packed) outdoor market is the place for self-caterers to buy fresh fruits and provisions.
South Coast
A good no-nonsense cafeteria-style choice on the main road, with grilled meats, roast chicken and mixed rice, plus inexpensive lunch specials.
Puerto López
Cubbyhole cafe with coffee, cheesecake, and crepes along the Champs Esmeraldas (ie the malecón).
South Coast
A no-frills restaurants with plastic tables, serving tasty chicken, ham and cheese, and meat empanadas.
South Coast
Near the bus companies, this is a good spot for warm, crispy-crust croissants.
