Mea Culpa

This refined restaurant commands one of the most beautiful settings in Old Town. On the second floor of a building that overlooks the Plaza de la Independencia, also known as the Plaza Grande, Mea Culpa is one of Quito's grandest restaurants -- so grand, in fact, that they require "business casual" attire (although exceptions are sometimes made at lunch), and it's best to dress up if you come here. You'll definitely want to be in the front room, with large windows overlooking the plaza (try to reserve a window table). You can start things off with a soup, or opt for salmon carpaccio, but I recommend their house specialty, the frittata Mea Culpa (a crepe stuffed with octopus, shrimp, mussels, and calamari). Main courses include everything from simple pastas and steaks to pork tenderloin in a raspberry sauce to an ostrich filet flambéed in brandy and served with a maple-soy-apple reduction. The modest wine list leans heavily on Chilean and Argentine vineyards, but with some interesting and less common selections. Those looking to really splurge can drop a bundle on a bottle of Château Latour 1997.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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