NUEMA
Ecuador's pioneering culinary gem, celebrated for its innovative tasting menus that transform traditional ingredients into modern masterpieces.
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NUEMA
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ecuador's pioneering culinary gem, celebrated for its innovative tasting menus that transform traditional ingredients into modern masterpieces.
Inform about dietary needs
Contact the restaurant in advance for a tailored dining experience if you have dietary restrictions.
Consider wine pairings
Opting for wine pairings is recommended to enhance your meal.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
Ecuadorian
Price
$$$
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Innovative Ecuadorian Tasting Menu
Experience a 13-15 course tasting menu showcasing the unique biodiversity and flavors of Ecuador.
Artistic Food Presentation
Each dish is a visually stunning masterpiece, highlighting meticulous preparation and culinary artistry.
Exceptional Cocktail Pairings
Enjoy expertly crafted cocktails designed to perfectly complement each course of the tasting menu.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Inform about dietary needs
Contact the restaurant in advance for a tailored dining experience if you have dietary restrictions.
Consider wine pairings
Opting for wine pairings is recommended to enhance your meal.
Book a table with a view
Secure a table overlooking the kitchen or with a view of Virgen del Panecillo for added ambiance.
Explore guest chef events
Visit during special events featuring guest chefs for a diverse culinary experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
Inform about dietary needs
Contact the restaurant in advance for a tailored dining experience if you have dietary restrictions.
Consider wine pairings
Opting for wine pairings is recommended to enhance your meal.
Book a table with a view
Secure a table overlooking the kitchen or with a view of Virgen del Panecillo for added ambiance.
Explore guest chef events
Visit during special events featuring guest chefs for a diverse culinary experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Nuema is celebrated for its innovative and artistic tasting menus that highlight Ecuador's unique ingredients. Diners often praise the exceptional presentation and the engaging explanations from the knowledgeable staff. However, some guests find certain flavor combinations too challenging or experience issues with seafood freshness and the wine list.
"During a recent trip through several Central and South American countries, I had the privilege of dining at numerous restaurants that appeared in “Top 50” or “Top 100” and this was BY FAR the best experience I had. Each dish was thoughtful and I described more than one to a friend as ‘life changing’. The service was attentive without being overbearing. The way they describe the ingredients that constitute each dish is enlightening. I do wish the wine list was more comprehensive. But otherwise, an absolutely fantastic experience. I was here for lunch and did the shorter option."
Hannah Griffin
"I like to try new foods, especially local cuisine when I travel. We had the seven-course tasting. Overall, I was not a fan of most of the servings. The flavors were odd or sour (not a preferred taste). The fish was cevichè (not a fan), and even my cooked fish was very fishy (my daughter's was not). My daughter, however, enjoyed most of the dishes and even ate mine, except for the really fishy tasting one.
If you like the experience of trying unusual flavors and new foods, try it. It's pricey, but an interesting experience."
J Hubb
"This was a huge miss for me but the wife enjoyed it. Although her stomach was upset for half the day the following day. Coincidence, probably. Customer service was pretty top notch. They did a good job explaining the dishes. However. All the seafood dishes had a disgusting and funky smell like old seafood. Ruined the mood for me. The Cocktails for my wife were all excellent. Only 2 national beers CLUB and Pilsener which is sad as for a high end establishment choosing to serve the poorest quality beer. They need to consult with a Cerveza Artesenal Brewery locally and create their on perfect light crisp easy drinker to go with the menu. Overall for $95 for 12 course pretty decently solid deal if the seafood items were fresh. I did not like any of the Pastry/Desserts. Bland and boring. Although she one Pastry chef of the year it did not show in this seating. But please visit her bakery and coffee shop next door called PIA. The aesthetics and decor are modern and trendy. The vibe is chill. Would I go back. No. Hopefully if you go they will use fresher seafood items."
Samuel Brooks
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Nuema offers an innovative tasting menu experience, often featuring 13-15 courses that showcase Ecuador's biodiversity and culinary heritage.
Yes, Nuema is known for being accommodating to dietary restrictions like vegetarian and gluten-free. It's recommended to inform them in advance.
Nuema is considered an upscale dining experience, reflecting the quality and artistry of its tasting menu.
Engage with the descriptions provided by the staff and savor each course by taking small bites to appreciate the complex flavors.
Nuema was the first Ecuadorian restaurant recognized among Latin America's Best Restaurants, highlighting unique local ingredients and innovative techniques.
Given its acclaimed status and unique tasting menu, reservations are highly recommended.
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Featured in these publications
The Best Gourmet Restaurants in Quito I Latin Adventures
We are talking about the first Ecuadorian restaurant ever to land on the Top 50 Latin America’s Best Restaurants in 2020, of course, this is hands-down the best restaurant in Quito, Ecuador. This place is a spectacular product of the chefs Alejandro Chamorro and Pia Salazar, with their aim of presenting the traditional biodiversity of Ecuadorian culture, using the most inventive methods of the present day. This fancy restaurant gains its hype for Chamorro’s unique fudge made from black clams and bone marrow with lentils.
Quito, Ecuador travel guide and things to do: Nine must-do highlights
Plucking gastronomic inspiration from Ecuador's many-faceted landscapes, former NOMA chef Alejandro Chamorro and his wife, pastry whizz Piedad Salazar, showcase traditional cuisine in the kitchen of Nuema, located in the artsy Illa Experience Hotel. The ever-changing five-course tasting menu features local produce sourced direct from farmers, with unique ingredients including Andean deer, chaucha potatoes, plantains and "big ass ants", a delicacy from the Amazon region. A dining experience worth savouring.
Restaurante de Quito entra en la lista de los Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants
Este año, Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants presentan seis debutantes en total. Mérito de Lima; Osaka y El Preferido de Palermo en Buenos Aires, ocupan los puestos 36 y 47, respectivamente; Nuema, en Quito (Ecuador), se encuentra en el puesto 48; Celele, en Cartagena (Colombia), se encuentra en el puesto 49; y Corrutela, en Sao Paulo (Brasil), se encuentra en el puesto 50. Nuema, de Quito, es un restaurante de una pareja joven que enfoca su propuesta a la interpretación de los sabores ecuatorianos.
Top 10 Restaurants in Quito
Nuema is a highly acclaimed restaurant located in Quito, Ecuador, that has won numerous awards and accolades for its innovative cuisine and exceptional dining experience. The restaurant’s menu features a fusion of Ecuadorian and international cuisine, crafted with the freshest ingredients and unique culinary techniques. Nuema’s commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing has earned it recognition from organizations such as the Sustainable Restaurant Association and the World Wildlife Fund.
Top 10 Quito Restaurants: A Culinary Exploration
Nuema is a cutting-edge restaurant with international recognition for its revolutionary approach to Ecuadorian cuisine. Under the direction of acclaimed chef Alejandro Chamorro, Nuema offers an exclusive tasting menu that celebrates Ecuador’s rich culinary heritage, fusing indigenous flavors with contemporary techniques. Its minimalist and elegant décor contributes to an intimate and profoundly memorable dining experience, making this restaurant a global benchmark for Ecuadorian haute cuisine.
Quito: Pushing Culinary Boundaries in South America
Nuema is a culinary gem that has earned its place on the prestigious Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants list, ranking No. 11 in 2023. This innovative restaurant offers a captivating tasting menu that showcases Ecuador’s diverse ingredients through a minimum of seven meticulously crafted courses. Each dish is a visual and flavorful masterpiece, featuring unique elements like Amazonian fruits and local herbs, all presented in an elegant setting that reflects the beauty of Ecuadorian culture.
Recommended restaurants in Quito and Guayaquil
Nuema set out to showcase Ecuador’s remarkable biodiversity and abundance, blending its remarkable range of ingredients into a mind-blowing 16 course taster menu. Headed up by husband and wife team Alejandro Chamorro and Pia Salazar, between them they rustle up a host of original, contemporary dishes. The turron – one of Pia’s desserts made up of rice pudding and nougat served with dehydrated peas and honey ice cream – is a regular favourite.
The Best Of Quito in a Luxury Trip To Ecuador
Nuema Restaurant is a top-rated dining destination located in the elegant Hotel Plaza Grande in the heart of Quito’s historic center. This upscale restaurant features a sophisticated ambiance, with classic decor, plush seating, and beautiful views of the surrounding historic buildings. The menu at Nuema focuses on Ecuadorian cuisine, with a modern twist and a strong emphasis on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
The Sensation of Tasting Top Pastry Chef in the World's Confections at Nuema in Quito
If you answered yes to any of these questions, and you are planning a trip Quito, Ecuador, you must get yourself to Nuema. Nuema is ranked among the top 100 best restaurants by The World’s 50 Best and has been heralded as putting Ecuador on the gastronomic map. Often over-shadowed by its much larger neighbors (Peru to the south and Colombia to the east), Ecuador has its own identity and flair to bring to the table.
Exploring Quito's Culinary Delights
In an elegant and modern setting, NUEMA presents a culinary journey curated by acclaimed Ecuadorian chefs, including Pia Salazar, named the World’s Best Pastry Chef in 2023 by Sosa. Drawing inspiration from local ingredients and innovative methods, the chefs craft visually stunning dishes bursting with flavor. Their seasonal tasting menu offers a delightful showcase of Ecuador's rich culinary diversity.
Meilleurs restaurants à Quito – Meilleurs restaurants de la capitale de l’Équateur
Nuema est un autre restaurant raffiné de Quito qui met à l'honneur la cuisine équatorienne diversifiée. Décrit comme un lieu où essayer 1000 saveurs, textures et présentations nouvelles et surprenantes, Nuema propose sa vision de la cuisine équatorienne contemporaine et avant-gardiste avec un menu dégustation de 7 plats qui varie selon les saisons. Photo prise à partir du site Web du restaurant Nuema
Best Restaurants in Quito, Ecuador
Nuema, led by husband-and-wife team Alejandro Chamorro and Pia Salazar, offers an exceptional dining experience with an exclusive tasting menu. Starting at $85, the menu features at least seven thoughtfully crafted dishes. We recommend asking your server about local natural wine pairings for each course or exploring the cocktail menu, where each drink is masterfully made with only three ingredients.
los mejores restaurantes en la capital de Ecuador
Nuema es otro excelente restaurante de Quito que pone en el mapa la diversa cocina ecuatoriana. Descrito como un lugar para probar 1000 sabores, texturas y presentaciones nuevos y sorprendentes, Nuema ofrece su versión de la comida ecuatoriana contemporánea y vanguardista con un menú de degustación de 7 platos que varía según las estaciones. Foto tomada de: Sitio web del restaurante Nuema
Best Restaurants in Quito– Top Eateries in Ecuador’s Capital
Nuema is another fine Quito restaurant putting diverse Ecuadorian cuisine on the map. Described as a place to try 1000 new and surprising flavors, textures, and presentations, Nuema serves its take on contemporary and avant-garde Ecuadorian dining with a 7-course tasting menu which varies with the seasons. Photo Taken From: Nuema Restaurant Website
Exploring the Quito Neighborhood of San Marcos
Illa Experience is also the home of Nuema Restaurant, run by chef Alejandro Chamorro. It used to be in a different location, but moved into Illa Experience Hotel when it opened. This has long topped the city’s “best restaurant” lists, so you know you’ll be able to dine at one of the country’s best restaurants without even walking out the door.
Mejores Restaurantes en Quito 2024
El menú degustación de Nuema ofrece un viaje a través de la biodiversidad del Ecuador, reflejando la frescura de productos endémicos en una propuesta vanguardista y creativa. Mamá siempre te demostró su amor a través de la comida y, ahora, es tu turno de hacerlo; qué mejor que sea en un restaurante tan aclamado y galardonado.
From Bistro to Best: Nuema Is The Restaurant That Made Ecuador Sit Up
Alejandro Chamorro squints as the sun streams in through the windows of Nuema. He’s serving their latest tasting menu over lunch – a more intimate way to welcome guests and talk food, and culture, and creativity, in the close-up way he and Pia Salazar like to do.
Nuema escala al puesto 11 entre los 50 mejores restaurantes de América Latina en 2023
Pero, también los ecuatorianos Pía Salazar y Alejandro Chamorro brillaron con Nuema, el restaurante quiteño que se ubicó en el puesto 11 de los 50 mejores de la región.
Best Restaurants in Quito, Ecuador – EZ Global Adventures
Nuema: #48 on Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants, Nuema features a tasting menu with innovative, gastronomic dishes ($85 tasting menu)
Nuema, Quito | Where does Ecuador fit?
My meal at Nuema, however, was neither planned nor expected. I didn’t even know that I would be in Ecuador.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit