Mercado Iñaquito - people walking on market during daytime
1 / 10

Mercado Iñaquito

4.2
·13k reviews·Quito, Ecuador

Quito's vibrant Mercado Iñaquito offers authentic Ecuadorian cuisine, fresh produce, and a lively local atmosphere at unbeatable prices.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Freshest produce, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Mercado Iñaquito - people walking on market during daytime

Mercado Iñaquito

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Freshest produce, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Quito's vibrant Mercado Iñaquito offers authentic Ecuadorian cuisine, fresh produce, and a lively local atmosphere at unbeatable prices.

4.2
(13k reviews)

"The food was well worth it. This plate was $4 dollars and some of the best pork I’ve ever had."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Be Ready for Vendors

Vendors will invite you to their stalls, but it's all part of the lively experience! Enjoy the friendly hustle.

💰 Cash is King

While some vendors might accept cards, it's best to have cash for smaller purchases and to get the best prices. :moneybag:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Authentic Hornado

Authentic Hornado

Food Stalls

Savor succulent, slow-roasted pork, a quintessential Ecuadorian delicacy. Crispy skin and tender meat await!

Vibrant Produce Section

Vibrant Produce Section

Market Floor

Explore a dazzling array of fresh, exotic fruits and vegetables. A feast for the eyes and a taste of Ecuador's bounty.

Local Food Court Delights

Local Food Court Delights

Food Court Area

Experience the bustling energy and diverse flavors of Ecuadorian cuisine. From hearty stews to fresh seafood, there's something for everyone.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Local Vibe

Dive into the heart of Quito's culinary scene at Mercado Iñaquito. Be ready for a lively atmosphere and friendly vendors eager to share their delicious offerings. It's a true taste of local life!

Budget-Friendly Bites

Mercado Iñaquito is renowned for its incredibly affordable prices. You can savor authentic Ecuadorian dishes and fresh produce without breaking the bank. Come hungry!

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Freshest produce, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Lunchtime
Why
Lively atmosphere, hot meals
Crowd
High
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Winding down, good deals
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Ame el mercado de iñaquito🥰🇪🇨 #ecuador #mercado #iñaquito #mercadoiñaquito #quito #tiktokecuador #hornado #fritada #tendencia #viral
@ivanandresfarah
25.4K likes • 308.4K views

🎯 Be Ready for Vendors

Vendors will invite you to their stalls, but it's all part of the lively experience! Enjoy the friendly hustle. Reddit

💰 Cash is King

While some vendors might accept cards, it's best to have cash for smaller purchases and to get the best prices. :moneybag:

Mercado Iñaquito Quito Ecuador 2 2 2025
lorenaortiz.7
1 likes • 166 views
Ahora puedes pedir tus tequeños en el mercado Iñaquito, de lunes a domingo a partir de las 7am. Si eres emprendedor o tienes un local o tienda y deseas promocionar nuestros tequeños envíanos un mensaje al 0984417631.
laralunchec
188 likes • 3.8K views

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring, so wear comfortable shoes to make the most of your visit. :athletic_shoe:

📱 Explore with Your Phone

Capture the vibrant colors and delicious food! Many creators share their finds on TikTok and Instagram. :iphone:

Te presento el famoso mercado de iñaquito porque comprando aquicito ganas tú, gana Quito #comprandoaquicito #comida #food #ecuador #reelsfood @municipioquito
donrecetass
116 likes • 4.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Be Ready for Vendors

Vendors will invite you to their stalls, but it's all part of the lively experience! Enjoy the friendly hustle. Reddit

💰 Cash is King

While some vendors might accept cards, it's best to have cash for smaller purchases and to get the best prices. :moneybag:

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring, so wear comfortable shoes to make the most of your visit. :athletic_shoe:

📱 Explore with Your Phone

Capture the vibrant colors and delicious food! Many creators share their finds on TikTok and Instagram. :iphone:

🌶️ Try Local Specialties

Don't shy away from trying dishes like 'hornado' or 'fritada' – they are highly recommended! TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.2
(13k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Mercado Iñaquito for its authentic, delicious, and incredibly affordable food, especially the renowned 'hornado'. The market's vibrant atmosphere and fresh produce are also major draws, offering a genuine local experience. Some find the bustling environment overwhelming, but most agree the culinary rewards are well worth it.

"Huge food market selling vegetables, fresh meats and fish. The food courts are very lively, you will be bombarded by people trying to lure you to their restaurant but despite the chaos, the food was well worth it. This plate was $4 dollars and some of the best pork I’ve ever had."

Sarah West

"Very clean, very local. Excellent prepared food. Gorgeous fruits and vegetables. Meat, fish, eggs."

donna lohrmann

"Lots of fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, seafood, and if you are interested in having lunch, there is a great variety of food to be had"

Rosine Davies

What People Like

Authentic and delicious food
Very affordable prices
Fresh produce variety

What People Dislike

Can be overwhelming
Aggressive vendors

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Mercado Iñaquito is easily accessible by public transport in Quito. Many local buses stop nearby. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available and a convenient option, especially if you're coming from further afield. Reddit

While street parking can be challenging, there are often paid parking lots in the vicinity of the market. It's advisable to check for available options upon arrival or consider public transport to avoid parking hassles. :car:

From the historic center, you can take a local bus heading north towards the Iñaquito area. Alternatively, a taxi or ride-share will offer a direct and comfortable journey, typically taking around 20-30 minutes depending on traffic. :bus:

Mercado Iñaquito is located in a bustling commercial area and is not directly adjacent to major tourist attractions like the historic center. However, it's close to La Carolina Park, making it a good stop before or after visiting the park. :walking:

Many bus routes that travel along Avenida Amazonas or Avenida 10 de Agosto will pass close to Mercado Iñaquito. It's best to ask your accommodation or a local for the most direct route from your starting point. :bus:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Mercado Iñaquito is a public market, and there is no admission fee to enter. You can freely wander through the stalls and enjoy the atmosphere. :ticket:

The market is generally open daily, with most stalls operating from early morning until late afternoon or early evening. Specific hours can vary slightly by vendor, but it's a place that comes alive throughout the day. Instagram

Weekdays offer a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds, allowing you to interact more easily with vendors. Weekends are livelier and busier, offering a more vibrant atmosphere, especially during peak meal times. Instagram

While there aren't official ticketed tours, many local guides offer culinary tours that include a visit to Mercado Iñaquito. This can be a great way to learn about the local ingredients and dishes from an expert. :guide_dog:

Mercado Iñaquito is typically open 7 days a week. While most stalls operate consistently, it's always a good idea to check for any public holiday closures if your visit coincides with one. :calendar:

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

You absolutely must try the 'hornado' (roasted pork) and 'fritada' (fried pork), which are highly praised. Also, explore the fresh fruits, juices, and local seafood options. TikTokInstagram

Food at Mercado Iñaquito is incredibly affordable. You can expect to pay around $4-$7 for a substantial meal, making it a fantastic value for authentic Ecuadorian cuisine. Reddit

While the market is known for its meat and seafood, you can find fresh fruit juices, salads, and some vegetable-based dishes. It's best to ask vendors directly about vegetarian options. :leafy_green:

Yes, many vendors start their day early, offering breakfast items like empanadas, tamales, and fresh fruit. Some stalls, like the tequeños vendor, open as early as 7 am. Instagram

Wander through the food court, check out the menus, and when you see something you like, approach the counter to order. Be prepared for a lively atmosphere as vendors call out to you. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Absolutely! The market is a photographer's dream with its vibrant colors, bustling activity, and diverse array of fresh produce and prepared foods. Instagram

Early mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the market's setup. Midday provides the most vibrant activity, perfect for candid shots of vendors and shoppers. Instagram

Generally, photography is allowed, but it's always polite to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of vendors or their products, especially if they seem busy. :camerawithflash:

Focus on the textures of fruits and vegetables, the action of food preparation, portraits of vendors, and the overall lively atmosphere of the food court. TikTok

A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both wide scenes and details. A prime lens with a wide aperture can also be excellent for low-light food shots. :camera:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Mercado Iñaquito offers a vibrant and educational experience for families. Kids will be fascinated by the sheer variety of colorful fruits and vegetables, and the bustling activity of the market. It's a great place to introduce them to new tastes and textures in a fun, informal setting. Instagram Look for stalls selling fresh fruit juices and simple, kid-friendly snacks. While the main food court can be busy, finding a table might be easier during off-peak hours. Consider visiting in the morning when it's less crowded and the produce displays are at their most impressive. :family_child:

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget travelers, Mercado Iñaquito is a paradise. You can enjoy delicious, authentic Ecuadorian meals for a fraction of the cost of restaurants. A hearty plate of 'hornado' or 'fritada' can be as low as $4-$7, offering incredible value. Reddit Beyond prepared food, stocking up on fresh fruits and snacks from the market is also extremely economical. It's the perfect place to grab breakfast, lunch, and snacks for the day without overspending. :moneywithwings:

🍜 Foodies & Culinary Explorers

Food enthusiasts will find Mercado Iñaquito to be a treasure trove of authentic Ecuadorian flavors. The market is celebrated for its high-quality ingredients and traditional cooking methods. Be sure to seek out the highly recommended 'hornado' and 'fritada', and don't miss the opportunity to try exotic local fruits and freshly squeezed juices. TikTokInstagram Engaging with vendors and asking about their specialties can lead to delightful discoveries. This is the place to experience the true culinary heart of Quito. :chef_knife:

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Culinary Adventure at Mercado Iñaquito

Mercado Iñaquito is more than just a market; it's a vibrant hub of Ecuadorian gastronomy. Visitors rave about the incredible variety of fresh produce, meats, and seafood, all offered at local prices. Instagram The food court is a particular highlight, where you can sample authentic dishes like 'hornado' (slow-roasted pork) and 'fritada' (fried pork) that have been praised as some of the best ever tasted. TikTok The lively atmosphere, with vendors calling out and the aroma of delicious food filling the air, makes for an unforgettable sensory experience. Reddit

Beyond the prepared foods, the market is an excellent place to discover Ecuador's rich agricultural bounty. You'll find an astonishing array of colorful fruits, vegetables, and local ingredients that might be unfamiliar but are a joy to explore. Instagram Many visitors appreciate the market's cleanliness and the opportunity to experience a truly local setting, away from the typical tourist crowds. Reddit It's a place where you can truly immerse yourself in the local culture and savor the authentic flavors of Quito.

For those looking to experience the heart of Quito's food scene, Mercado Iñaquito is an essential stop. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or just looking for a delicious and affordable meal, the market offers an authentic taste of Ecuador that will leave you wanting more. Instagram

Navigating the Bustle: Tips for First-Time Visitors

Visiting Mercado Iñaquito for the first time can be a wonderfully overwhelming experience, filled with sights, sounds, and smells. To make the most of it, embrace the energy! Vendors are eager to serve you, and while it might seem chaotic, it's all part of the charm. Reddit Don't be afraid to politely decline if you're not interested, but also be open to recommendations. Many creators on TikTok and Instagram share their favorite stalls and dishes, which can be a great starting point. TikTokInstagram

It's highly recommended to carry cash, as many vendors prefer it, and it often ensures you get the best prices. While some may accept cards, having small denominations will make transactions smoother. Reddit Comfortable footwear is a must, as you'll be doing a lot of walking and standing. The market is extensive, and you'll want to explore every corner without discomfort. Instagram

When it comes to ordering food, take your time to browse the different stalls in the food court. Look at what others are eating, and don't hesitate to ask vendors about their specialties. The prices are incredibly reasonable, so you can afford to try a few different things. Reddit Remember, the goal is to experience the local culture and flavors, so dive in and enjoy the adventure!

You may also like

1 of 2