Street vendors and even waiters at outdoor cafes also are not shy about trying to get your business. In Quito, I dined in upscale restaurants and was pleased most offered Ecuadorian fare that was not too Americanized. I wasn't sure what to expect after seeing so many familiar fast-food chains in the city. Most Ecuadorian cuisine is neither too spicy nor too bland for my taste. Common ingredients include potatoes, corn and plantains, as well as familiar meats and seafoods.
Soups are popular.
Except for a slice of floating avocado, I enjoyed locro, a thick potato soup with cheese. Popcorn and roasted corn kernels can be added to soups, which is very tasty, or eaten separately as hors d'oeuvre. Quito has many upscale shops and galleries within easy walking distance of Hotel Hilton Colon Quito, where I stayed, as well as souvenir shops and street vendors. My favorite place was the outdoor Artisans Market, which has nearly 100 vendors. Metropolitan maintains Ecuador is a safe travel destination.