URKO – Ecuador’s Seasons on a Plate
In the heart of Quito, URKO Restaurante redefines Ecuadorian cuisine by forging a poetic connection between nature, culture, and gastronomy. Founded on the philosophy of temporadas (seasons), URKO crafts tasting menus inspired by the Andean calendar, transforming ancestral knowledge into contemporary culinary art. Every visit is a new chapter—one that tells the story of Ecuador’s biodiversity, native ingredients, and cultural roots. URKO doesn’t just serve meals; it serves heritage, reimagined with elegance and purpose.
Pastel de Choclo (PASTEL DE CHOCLO)
A reimagined version of the traditional corn pie, this dish captures the soul of the Ecuadorian highlands. Smooth, sweet corn custard forms the base, with rich local cheese melted into its core—an homage to family-style comfort food, elevated with finesse.
URKO’s Botanical Centerpiece (URKO)
This artistic plating presents an edible landscape that reflects the biodiversity of Ecuador’s páramo and forest ecosystems. Delicate edible flowers, microgreens, and fermented roots are layered with precision, celebrating both wild herbs and the soil that nurtures them.
Amazonian Essence (URKO)
A vibrant composition of jungle-sourced ingredients—banana blossom, yuca chips, fermented palm heart, and wild herbs—offering diners a glimpse into the flavors of the Ecuadorian Amazon, where sour, earthy, and citrusy notes converge beautifully.
Páramo Scallops & Ash (URKO)
Locally sourced scallops seared to perfection, topped with a smoky ash crumble and resting on native root purée—this plate is a tribute to the volcanic earth of the Ecuadorian highlands, both in flavor and appearance.
Aromatic Forest Plate (URKO)
A symphony of smoked wild mushrooms, roasted heirloom vegetables, and a broth poured tableside, releasing woodsy aromas. This dish feels like walking through an Andean forest after rainfall.
Seafood Mosaic (IMG)
Plated with minimalist elegance, this dish captures the essence of Ecuador’s coast—featuring octopus, white fish, and local sea herbs, bathed in a citrusy chicha marinade that awakens the senses.
🍽️ URKO – More Than a Meal, A Cultural Ritual
URKO is not merely a restaurant—it is a living archive of Ecuador’s culinary identity. Through inventive storytelling, seasonal respect, and refined craftsmanship, every plate tells a tale of native lands and forgotten wisdom. From the smoky Andes to the lush Amazon and the fertile coast, URKO invites diners to explore Ecuador’s soul, one inspired bite at a time. For gourmands, travelers, and culture seekers alike, this is not just fine dining—it’s edible anthropology.
