'One to watch' award for the Clara in Quito

Clara restaurant in Quito has been awarded the 'One to watch' award from Latin America's 50 Best Restaurants. Founded in December 2023 by chefs Felipe Salas, Angel De Sousa and Ana Lobato, the restaurant is located in the La Floresta neighbourhood of the Ecuadorian capital and offers a menu full of varied flavours.

This award marks Clara's rise on the regional culinary stage as a place with the potential to break into the rankings in the coming years. Clara was born as a personal project of the trio, who come from different countries, and offers an exciting gastronomic offer that integrates the culinary vision of each of its founders. Lobato, who is of Spanish origin, brings a Mediterranean style to the table. Meanwhile, Ecuadorian chef Salas adds Asian elements to the ensemble. De Sousa comes from Venezuela and has been able to fuse flavours into a perfect combination thanks to his experience at Iche, a social project focusing on Manabi gastronomy.

The restaurant embodies the spirit of a neighbourhood bistro and delights with its simplicity. The dishes have their roots in classic Ecuadorian cookery and are made special by the international background of their creators and a deep respect for local ingredients. The cuisine is characterised by a masterful use of spices and broths, which is particularly evident in the careful preparation of the sauces. This results in outstanding dishes such as Sanduchito de Chancho, Omelette Encocado, Tartar de Res con Tuétano de Sacha and the emblematic and iconic Ensalada de Tomates y Orejas de Chancho, a dish inspired by the classic cevichocho, a typical market dish from the Andean regions of Ecuador based on chochos.

Clara is located in a striking building that once housed the iconic Pobre Diablo de Quito - one of the most important bars of Quito's bohemian and artistic scene in the 1990s. The restaurant aims to carry on the legacy of the site as an important cultural centre, fuelled by the warmth of shared experiences.

William Drew, Content Director of Latin America's 50 Best Restaurants, says: "It is a pleasure to announce that Clara has been honoured with the American Express One To Watch Award, joining an exclusive group of culinary stars with a rosy future. This prestigious award solidifies Clara's place as a must-watch for anyone who wants to experience authentic Ecuadorian cuisine with global inspirations." Co-owner Ana Lobato says: "We are very honoured and excited about the recognition and even more excited that the collaboration with other chefs, producers and people in Quito and Ecuador will be visible to the whole world. Our cuisine has a strong classical base, but at the same time is modern, fun and direct. Clara is a true reflection of us, where we try to create a unique place where everyone feels welcome in a friendly atmosphere."