¡Ave Maria Restaurant!

My mom was born and raised in Ecuador, so I grew up eating a lot of Ecuadorian food. It’s the kind of comfort food that instantly feels like home to me. So when I found out there was an Ecuadorian/South American restaurant near me, I had to check it out with my mom. We started with cheese empanadas and humitas, and honestly they tasted just like the meals I grew up eating with my family. The seco de carne was absolutely delicious—super flavorful and the meat was perfectly tender. Not pictured, but my mom ordered the lentils with carne and it was also so good! I also got a chicken seco to go for my boyfriend and he said it tasted just like my mom’s. It was really cool to see Ecuadorian cuisine being represented because there honestly aren’t that many spots around. It made me really happy

I came in right at open on a Saturday morning and was greeted with a friendly young man at the register. He made sure to wipe down the outside table for my family and I and give us the menus right away. Inside felt like a nice welcoming atmosphere. Almost like coming into someone’s home. We ordered guatita, Bolon mixto, and encebollado- all Ecuadorian staples. Each plate was delicious and tasted straight from the motherland. Quaker tasted like my mom made it and the maracuya felt fresh and like it was straight from the fruit and not just a syrup. The owner came out and greeted us with such awesome energy. Can say without a doubt ill be back and will be telling all my people to check it out!

Walking into AMR is like walking into your auntie's home and especially her kitchen. Warm smile and a bright greeting I felt immediately comfortable and trusted them to take me in a culinary ride. I was not disappointed. What a fantastic lunch especially on an impromptu stop, AND it's dog friendly! I live around the corner but had never seen it open before. They had just cut down these massive trees that had blocked it and now the patio begs for you to hang w the pooch and eat. The food feels homemade and fresh. Tastes like family food. They cater too! Definitely going to get a few trays next time I have a party.

What a gem! I love this place. This is the best Ecuadorian restaurant that I’ve tried in LA. We tried a little bit of everything on the menu and it all had so much flavor. The bistec, seco de pollo, bolones, humitas and hayacas 🤌🏻 So happy that this place is so near by. I can’t wait to go back and try the encebollado. The owner was so kind and welcoming too. Thank you so much!

Found out about this gem a month ago and finally paid a visit. As a proud Ecuadorian who is familiar with this cuisine, I can tell you this place is legit! The owner, Katerina, was very sweet. The menu has Ecuadorian staples, from appetizers, main course to dessert! I can’t wait to try the encebollado that is only served on the weekends!