Translated from Latin as "our sea," Mare Nostrum is one of the city's most renowned seafood restaurants, serving Quito since 1985. Inside a brick, castle-like space, it feels like a conquistador decorated the three dining rooms, as medieval knights, mastheads, and leather-backed chairs are the norm. The oversized portions of fresh Ecuadorian seafood (as well as shellfish from Chile) along with inexpensive prices have ensured a loyal following. The food, which can be hit or miss, is prepared in mostly classical international styles. Seafood paellas are joined by red snapper in garlic sauce, bouillabaisses, Lobster Thermidor, and Galician octopus. A couple of ceviches make the menu as well, but this is far from a cevicheria.