Corvinas Don Jimmy (Mercado Central)
Las Corvinas de Don Jimmy
A legendary fried fish stall on the second floor of the Central Market, where a portion of fried fish paired with a small ceviche makes for a classic Quito lunch.
Located on the second floor of the Central Market (Mercado Central) in the Old Town, this stall has been selling fried fish since the 1950s. Founded by Delia Vilcaguano, it is now run by her daughter. There is another branch in the north; this listing is for the market stall. The signature dish is fried sea bass (corvina) served with potatoes or rice, accompanied by a small portion of shellfish or shrimp ceviche. The lunch rush is from about 12:00 to 13:30; it is recommended to arrive before 13:00 to avoid the queue. Reservations are not accepted. A single portion on delivery platforms costs about 7.5 to 10 USD, while prices on-site may be slightly lower. It closes early in the afternoon. Located at the corner of Esmeraldas and Pichincha streets, it is within walking distance of the Old Town plazas.
Opening hours
Mon–Sat approx. 7:00–16:30; Sun approx. 7:00–15:00 (times vary slightly by source; closes early in the afternoon)
Nearby sights
- Basílica del Voto Nacional
- Historic Center of Quito
- Plaza Grande & Metropolitan Cathedral
- Centro Cultural Metropolitano
- Church of the Society of Jesus (La Compañía)
- Santo Domingo Church & Plaza
- Itchimbía Park & Crystal Palace
- Basilica and Convent of San Francisco