miércoles, 3 de julio de 2019

New Latin Food Destination: Guayaquil Restaurant Casa Julián

by Stephanie Frias

Guayaquil’s most notable historic site and greatest green space offers an exquisite ode to
culinary perfection. From beneath the boughs of the incredible Parque Histórico, tempt the
senses to discover the incomparable Casa Julián.
An extension of Ecuador’s most celebrated hotel, Hotel del Parque Guayaquil, only the
greatest impression can be expected. Step through the eaves to a place where antiquity
and modernity are embraced as one, luxury seamlessly blends with comfort, and the
flavors of yesteryear elegantly dance with present-day gastronomic allure.


The Distinguished Chef Javier Urruturia

Sink into the delectable cuisine crafted through innovative interpretations of local signature
cuisine by visionary chef, Javier Urrutia. A native Ecuadorian, the resident gastronomic
expert initially trained at the Institute of Higher Culinary Arts, following under the wings of
legendary chefs. Well versed in creative gourmet cuisine and a devout supporter of
sustainable cooking practices; presentations by Javier Urrutia are authentic, distinctive,
and unforgettable. 


Ceviche, Appetizers, and Starters



Chef Javier Urruturia’s inspirational menu at Casa Julián flirts with both land and sea,
offering a dazzling assortment of traditional Ecuadorian food prepared with a modern twist.
Diners delight in five ceviche (chilled citrus-cured seafood) options with a series of
enterprising flavors from roasted peanuts to ginger and tamarillo, coconut, passion fruit, and
orange marinade.
Easily regarded as the best ceviche in Guayaquil, this starter alone is worth coming to Casa
Julián for.




Beyond the appetizers, the menu springs salad and soup creations laced with innovative
ingredients including plantain croutons, sugar cane dressing, and an assortment of surprising
regional cheese from aged varieties to locally sourced goat cheese.
The third course offers a discerning range of starters fit for demanding gastronomes from fig
and bleu cheese empanadas to crispy humitas spilling out goat cheese foam with chili pepper
jelly, and grilled octopus, or smoked tuna carpaccio, just to name a few. 



Even so, the main course doesn’t sulk in the shadows, rather it rises to the table in epic culinary
flair from plates brimming over with classic favorites from both the surf and the turf.
From approximately a dozen temptations, lean towards blue-ribbon ocean winners like Seared
Sea Bass, Roasted Prawns with Sango Corn and Chimichurri, or Amazonian Paiche.




 Or, sink into timeless land offerings including Glazed Duck with Lulu Fruit Teriyaki, Veal Shank
with Roasted Oranges and Garlic, Braised Pork Ribs with Llapingachos and Peanut Sauce, or
Grilled Brangus Rib Eye. The distinguished vegetarian palate has not gone unnoticed at Casa
Julián, represented by savory main dishes from Chola Potato Gnocchi with Pumpkin Seed
Pesto to Moro Lentils with Camembert Cheese and Asparagus, and beyond.


 Ambiance, Prestige & Allure 

In the world of culinary allure, Ecuadorian cuisine is quickly rising the ranks for flavorful
and varied cuisine, as well as for eco-awareness. In 2019, the South America country most
famous for the Galapagos Islands has been proposed at the New Latin Food Destination.
The legendary cuisine, discerning location, and stylish presentation at Casa Julián, are
expected to earn this gourmet restaurant in Guayaquil recognition among the best restaurants
in Ecuador.




Respectively, Casa Julián along with the highly distinguished Hotel del Parque Historico,
turned heads earlier this year when it made the ultra-exclusive list for Relais & Chateaux,
a coveted collection of elite hotels with first-class restaurants. Part of the 300-point criteria that
earned Casa Julián the affiliation, is the restaurant’s participation with Fish Unknown, a program
that supports sustainable fishing destinations and cooking practices.
Chef Javier Urrutia is a longtime supporter of such principles.




 Special Events, Reservations & Hours of Operation

Casa Julián offers a sophisticated dining establishment set on the shores of the Daule River,
from within a restored 19th-century building. Diners can opt for indoor or outdoor seating,
exclusive private dining inside the park or on the dockside, and hotel patrons can also choose
room service. 


Casa Julián is open daily with special events and promotions each day of the week. 
Brunch is offered on Sundays with a complimentary welcome mimosa, buffet or a la carte menu,
unlimited beer, and live music. 


Lunch is served on Wednesday - Friday, and Saturday from 1pm to 11pm. 
Afternoon Tea happens Wednesday - Friday from 3pm to 6pm. Dinner is from 7pm to 10 pm
seven days a week. 


Mondays and Tuesdays offer a 15% discount. 


Drink specials are presented daily, with an ‘’all you can drink” special for 25 USD from 4pm to
8pm for margaritas, sangria, mimosas, mojito, and beer.


Please confirm availability 48 hours in advance. Reservations may be necessary and can be
booked on Open Table.