ShamuiCo Espai Gastronòmic

Top choice


A surprising find in Saraguro, this unpretentiously sophisticated spot is run by a local chef who trained in some of Europe's best restaurants. Bold cuisine falls somewhere along the lines of highland Ecuadorian-European tapas, inspired by the grains grown around Saraguro and straight-from-the-market fresh produce that melds into tasty but uncomplicated plates.

These include corn gallette and their unique take on salchipapas, the nation-wide dish of french fries and chopped sausage, where fresh trout replaces the sausage. The kitchen is open and Andean music serenades diners.


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Nearby attractions

1. Tuncarta

0.81 MILES

The community of Tuncarta is known for producing fine Saraguro hats. Catch a bus ($0.20, 10 minutes) from the main road, or get walking directions at…

2. Baños del Inka

1.06 MILES

Just north of town on the Panamericana, this nature area has impressive waterfalls and large rock formations.

3. Las Lagunas

2.21 MILES

Tupus and textiles are made in the community of Las Lagunas, making this an interesting cultural excursion. Catch a bus ($0.20, 10 minutes) from the main…

4. Parque La Banda/Orillas de Zamora

23.08 MILES

North of town, this nice park has a small zoo and a beautifully designed Orquideario with over 200 species of orchids from southern Ecuador.

5. Parque Recreacional Jipiro

24.19 MILES

North of town, this kid-friendly park offers a giant chessboard, a skate park, a Chinese pagoda, a pint-size Kremlin, small animal enclosures and a…

6. Puerta de la Ciudad

25.31 MILES

With perhaps more pomp and circumstance than you'll encounter anywhere else in Loja, the City Gate greets you into downtown from the northern corner. It's…

7. Plaza San Francisco

25.69 MILES

A block north of the Parque Central, this smallish plaza is crowned by a statue of the city’s founder astride his horse.

8. Cathedral

25.8 MILES

Watch the devotees stepping inside for their daily devotions to the Virgen del Cisne.