First time trying Caldo de Patas — completely converted

I had never tried Caldo de Patas before this visit and I wasn't sure what to expect. The bright and satisfying taste hit immediately and made sense of the dish in a way descriptions never quite do. aji criollo is an ingredient I'd not encountered used quite like this before.

The a Quito mercado central setting added something to the experience — this kind of food makes sense in that environment. Ecuador's position on the equator gives it extraordinary biodiversity of ingredients from coast, highlands, and Amazon. My server recommended naranjilla juice alongside and it was exactly right. I've been telling everyone to try Caldo de Patas. Outstanding first encounter.