What Food To Try in Guayaquil and Food Prices

Bolón de Verde - Green Plantain Dumpling - Mashed green plantains mixed with cheese, shaped into balls, and fried until golden. Locals often enjoy this for breakfast, typically paired with coffee or fresh cheese.

Fritada - Crispy Pork Dish - Tender pork chunks simmered and then fried to create a crispy outer layer, served with Llapingachos (potato cakes) and avocado. Frequently found at street stalls, it’s a favorite for Sunday lunches.

Ceviche de Camarón - Shrimp Ceviche - Fresh shrimp marinated in lime juice, mixed with onions, cilantro, and tomatoes, served cold. It's a popular dish enjoyed as a refreshing appetizer or main course during hot afternoons.

Seco de Chivo - Goat Stew - Slow-cooked goat meat in a rich sauce made with beer, spices, and cilantro, usually served with rice and avocado. A hearty family meal often shared during celebrations and gatherings.

Empanada de Verde - Green Plantain Turnover - A savory turnover stuffed with ground meat and spices, encased in a dough made from green plantains. Locals love them as a grab-and-go snack from street vendors, usually eaten at any time of day.

Encebollado - Onion Soup - A filling fish soup with yuca and onions, infused with lime and cilantro, often served with a side of plantain chips. This dish is commonly enjoyed for breakfast, particularly after a lively night out.

Menestra - Lentil Stew - A hearty lentil stew cooked with spices and usually served with rice and fried eggs. It’s a staple weekday meal for many families and is both comforting and filling.

Chicha Morada - Purple Corn Drink - A surprising combination of warm corn, pineapple, and spices creates a refreshing drink that’s often enjoyed with meals. Many people drink it alongside lunch, but it's also available street-side all day.

Fresh Guava Juice - Jugo de Guayaba (tropical refreshment) - Made with ripe guavas blended with water and a touch of sugar, it's a sweet and fragrant drink. You'll see locals sipping this especially during the hot afternoons while lounging in plazas or after a meal (definitely a favorite among kids!).

Café de Olla - Café de Olla (spiced brew) - This is a uniquely Ecuadorian coffee prepared with cinnamon and panela (unrefined sugar). It’s served hot in traditional earthenware mugs, often enjoyed during morning gatherings with friends or family, creating a warm and cozy vibe.

Canelazo - Canelazo (warm alcoholic drink) - A comforting drink made from aguardiente (a sugarcane spirit), panela, and cinnamon, typically served warm. It's especially popular during the cooler nights in winter, perfect for gatherings or celebrations with friends (so be prepared for a few toasts!).

Alfajor de Dulce de Leche - Alfajor (sweet sandwich cookie) - These delicate cookies are filled with rich dulce de leche and dusted with powdered sugar, offering a delightful contrast of textures. Often found at street markets or special celebrations, they're a treat you don’t want to miss!

Chicha de Morada - Chicha de Morada (purple corn drink) - This refreshing cold drink is made from purple corn, spices, and sweetened with sugar, usually served chilled. It's commonly enjoyed during various celebrations and is a nostalgic favorite for many locals reminiscing about their childhood. By the way, it's a fantastic pair with a slice of cake!