El Mercado

With no reservation, we were given a warm welcome. The service was excellent even when I asked many questions. I wanted a vegetarian dish so the kitchen made me gnocchi which was lovely. The bruschetta and salad were great and the lamb was the best we’ve ever had. Melts in your mouth. We got the best table and view of Cuenca as well. We’ll be back! It was a very nice romantic dinner! Worth every penny

Great Cocktails, really friendly service and tasty food. Nice restaurant and we can recommend.
We expected a little more (from the reviews) from the main dishes. We had Paiche fish on squid tint & filet with mashed potatoes.

100% DO NOT MISS THIS PLACE! If you come to Cuenca you CANNOT miss “El Mercado”. Chef Fabricio Medina and his impressive crew are producing extremely high quality dishes from beautiful local and regional ingredients in an Andean fusion that is both sophisticated but nods humbly to popular cuisine. The service is spectacular, the ambient both inviting and fresh, and the food is unparalleled in the city. Chef Fabricio is a breath of fresh air, proudly serving up exquisite Ecuadorian cuisine alongside his crew. Oh, and unlike the majority of places in Cuenca you can find more than a cosmo on the cocktail menu - including local favourites like the “canelazo”. The photos speak for themselves! We will definitely be back, heck, this place just made Cuenca a definite return destination for us in Ecuador.

It's a lovely location with high quality service and food preparation and presentation. My friend and I did not order a full meal but were treated like 5 star guests. Prices are on the higher side but it's definitely worth visiting

El Mercado is not just a restaurant; it's a delight for the senses. Here, Cuenca's vibrant flavors blend with a beautiful riverside view in a light-filled, open space.

The dining experience shines with a unique dish that marries Pork Fritada, crispy Potato Patties, tangy Onion & Tomato Salad, creamy avocado, and hearty Salted Pork Hominy. Every element creates a harmonious culinary symphony as unforgettable as the setting itself.

The refreshing ambiance, amplified by verdant greenery, serene river vistas, and abundant natural light, complements the cuisine, immersing diners in an authentic Cuenca experience.

With the attentive and friendly staff ensuring a seamless visit, El Mercado stands as a destination where ambiance, service, and cuisine unite, crafting an experience that's truly memorable.

The food is so amazing!! The staff and service were really nice. The whole environment was cool and romantic. There is a glass exhibition of red wine from different regions, and a lot of cool decorations, and a little gift shop. We had someone who celebrated her birthday and the dessert was really lovely! After dinner we got little brownies which were really tasty as well. We had a great time!!!

This place is absolutely amazing! The food is delicious, staff is amazing, the interior design is very unique and has its Ecuadorian charm. We will definitely come back for another great dinner!

A great restaurant with a nice view of Tomebamba river. We enjoyed all our dishes and the wine pairing was spot on. Definitely a place to return and remember.

Another beautiful dining experience! This restaurant has interesting menu choices and a beautiful view! Fresh and locally sourced. Loved the new addition Rollo de Cangrejo!

Absolutely exquisite. This restaurant and every detail of it is a labor of love and of the owners creation. It’s art!

We had the most beautiful view in a window seat, incredible ceviche as an appetizer, lamb chops, duck with blueberry sauce, and orange blossom ice cream, among other delicious items.

Paired with a great tempranillo and shared with a perfect walnut aperitif, all we needed were hammocks and we never would have left.

The owner (and all the staff!) we’re so kind and welcoming. Do. Not. Miss. This. Place.

Finally getting around reviewing Mercado after several visits. Service from start to finish is superb. Food is done with heart and it comes out in its flavors. Drink, outstanding! Desserts were fabulous but my favorite was the chocolate creation with Herba Buena ice cream. For me l, its the best dining spot to n Cuenca!! Shout to Alex for his great service and attention. To bad you couldn’t have a shot with us.

They are really friendly and nice. I had the best steak and cappuccino, Creme brulee for desert. We were so happy to have fine dining in long time and complimented how good it is and they served us one more cappuccino with no charge. Nice view as well.

Beautiful restaurant, extremely attentive staff, delicious food and exceptional cocktails. Don't sit outside in front but inside, great design and beautiful view. Easy 5*!

Fantastic and delicious food

Great atmosphere. Every dish is plated perfectly. Expect an experience full of textures and flavors that will delight you.
Windows oversee the river and extended city neighborhoods.

This is an excellent place in all respects! The crab roll, the tuna, the duck, all excellent!

We had an amazing dinner at Mercado on our last night in Cuenca. The service was incredible, the wine selection is top rate and the food was excellent and perfectly executed. Our waiter, Pablo, made our night so memorable. A fabulous restaurant in the heart of Cuenca!

Amazing food and service. Consistently great over the years. Absolutely a must if you are in Cuenca

Pretty amazing. Nice decor and view, the wait staff was the most professional I’ve had anywhere in central or South America, and food was delicious, not to mention the best coffee I’ve had in Cuenca. While the price is higher than your average Cuenca restaurant I think it’s more than reasonable for what you are getting.

Best restaurant I’ve eaten at in Ecuador so far! House cocktail was amazing. Octopus appetizer was highlight of the meal!