Theatrum

This classic restaurant is positively bursting with prestige; it is said to be the most important eating and drinking venue in Quito. It is based in the National Theatre and occupies the whole second floor. The building was constructed in the late 19th century over what was then called Plaza de las Carnicerias - where bullfighting used to take place before it was banned.

Theatrum is designed in the style of renaissance classicism, offering an architectural heritage in Quito that is monumentally important. The interior, in stunning contrast, is of contemporary design, but with portions of traditionalism, such as blood-red drapes and brass chandeliers. The whole place has been inspired by a number of the greatest hotels and restaurants in some of the greatest cities in the world.

But enough of all that, what about the food?! Well, you guessed it - the cuisine is impeccable, not to mention rather pricey. But if you feel like you can splash out, this is a dining experience you simply won't forget. The menu is inspired by Mediterranean cuisine and offers such delights as seafood, beef, chicken and duck, alongside eggplant, capers and endives - and the herbs and spices are just too numerous to list, but rest assured they all work very well together.

The wine list is almost daunting in its impressiveness, and the service is the most professional in the whole of Quito, and possibly the whole of Ecuador.