Marcos

Location:
Malecón
Atacames, Ecuador

Restaurant Types:
Seafood, Regional

By Katie Tibbetts

Caribbean colors and a gurgling fountain greet hungry travelers lucky enough to stumble across Marcos restaurant. An eclectic collection of African-like artwork adorns the white stucco walls, which stretch towards bamboo ceilings and hanging reed-woven lamps. The menu is as delightful as the atmosphere and food is served alongside precisely set tables draped with colorful table cloths. Specialties include typical Atacames fare: seafood. Unlike other restaurants in town, however, fish dishes are served with flair. Try the whole grilled fish, set amidst an array of vegetables and served still steaming. Besides the food, ambiance, and possibility of seeing live folk music on Friday and Saturday nights, the restaurant’s main asset is owner Marco Tito Romero. When he’s not running a successful restaurant, this gregarious gentleman, and fellow world traveler (17 years in Canada), has a knack for conversation and is a bit of a local fixture. He also owns the slightly classier restaurant next door (wine bottles replace plastic flowers on the table), and runs an ecologically friendly picnic area outside of town. Just ten minutes ride from the busy streets of Atacames, Marco’s Pic-Nic is a peaceful retreat where you can kick back, relax, and be one with nature. Inquire at the restaurant and Marco will gladly arrange for a visit, most likely he’ll offer to take you there himself. This restaurant and its owner are Atacames gems and a must-do for any trip.

Price Description: Entrees $4.25-6.95

Contact Information:
Phone: 062-760-126, Cell: 091-106-573.