Puerto López, being a coastal town, offers an exceptional array of fresh seafood and traditional Ecuadorian dishes, with a strong emphasis on Pacific coastal flavors. The town's cuisine reflects its maritime heritage, where local fishermen bring in the freshest catches, making seafood the star of the dining scene.

A must-try dish is the ceviche, made from fresh fish or shrimp, marinated in citrus juices and mixed with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and a touch of spice. This dish is a refreshing and tangy treat, perfect for the warm coastal climate. Another favorite is arroz con menestra y pescado, a combination of rice, lentils, and fried fish, usually served with a side of tostones (fried plantains) and a fresh salad. The crisp fish, paired with the savory rice and lentils, embodies the flavors of Puerto López's daily catch.

For a heartier meal, try the caldo de salchicha, a flavorful sausage soup, or encocado, a rich seafood stew made with coconut milk, which gives it a creamy and slightly sweet taste that perfectly complements the seafood. These dishes reflect the traditional, rustic nature of Puerto López's cuisine, often cooked with local ingredients and passed down through generations.

Don't miss out on trying the town's tropical fruit juices, made from fresh, exotic fruits like maracuya (passion fruit), guayaba, and naranjilla. These drinks are often served chilled, making them the ideal refresher after a day at the beach or a whale-watching tour.

Whether you're enjoying a plate of ceviche, sipping on tropical juices, or indulging in coconut-infused seafood, the local cuisine in Puerto López offers a flavorful journey through Ecuador's coastal traditions.