Jewish Guayaquil: A Haven of Tradition and Kosher Culture in Ecuador
- TOMER MADMONI
- Dec 26, 2024
- 3 min read
In the bustling city of Guayaquil, nestled in the streets of the upscale Urdesa neighborhood, lies a unique retreat for Jewish travelers: the Cedros Inn Boutique Hotel. This boutique hotel is more than just a place to stay—it’s a bridge between tradition, community, and Jewish hospitality in the heart of Ecuador.
This article explores not only the vision behind Cedros Inn but also the complete experience awaiting Jewish visitors: from the warm and welcoming community to kosher products at the local supermarket and the acclaimed Kosher Pita Grill. All of this is maintained under the careful supervision of the local Jewish community, ensuring a seamless and fulfilling stay.
Cedros Inn: Where Tradition Meets Modern Comfort
The Cedros Inn Boutique Hotel, founded by Shay Hadad, is a realization of a dream to create a unique space for Jewish travelers in Ecuador. Strategically located just a four-minute walk from the main synagogue and close to the Mi Comisariato supermarket, the hotel serves as a comfortable and practical sanctuary for those who wish to maintain a kosher lifestyle while traveling.
With 24 elegantly designed rooms, a refreshing outdoor pool, and inviting communal areas, Cedros Inn offers an experience of comfort and connection. Situated at the corner of Cedros and Víctor Emilio Estrada streets, the hotel is ideally located for visitors to explore both the Jewish community and the city’s vibrant attractions.
The Jewish community in Guayaquil, led by Rabbi Mendy Fried and his wife Menucha, is a shining example of dedication and resilience. Though small—comprising just a few dozen families and converts—it maintains a traditional Jewish lifestyle deeply rooted in values of family, faith, and education.
Rabbi Fried not only leads prayers at the synagogue but also performs kosher shechita (ritual slaughter) to ensure a steady supply of kosher meat and poultry for the community and visitors. The synagogue is the heart of Jewish life in the city, hosting festive celebrations, Shabbat gatherings, and providing a warm environment that fosters connection and unity.
Kosher Pita Grill, located near Cedros Inn, is a culinary gem for Jewish travelers visiting Guayaquil. Under the leadership of visionary entrepreneur Shahar Matza, the restaurant combines traditional Israeli and Mediterranean flavors with a welcoming atmosphere.
Menu Highlights:
Shawarma: Served in freshly baked pita or laffa, with classic toppings like Israeli salad, pickles, tahini, and amba.
Crispy Fresh Falafel: Accompanied by creamy hummus and vegetable salad.
Lamb and Beef Kebab: Perfectly marinated with Mediterranean spices and grilled over charcoal.
Kosher Burgers in 10 Unique Variations: Options include sautéed mushrooms, vegan cheeses, or caramelized onions, all served on freshly baked buns.
Traditional Desserts: Rugelach, challah, baklava, and sufganiyot (available during Hanukkah).
Special Services:
Kosher travel meals: Ready-to-go packages for trips, including same-day deliveries to the Galapagos Islands.
Customized menus for events: Catering for private occasions, group tours, and Shabbat celebrations.
Monthly culinary festivals: Featuring limited-time menus such as kosher sushi, Mexican cuisine, or Ecuadorian-inspired dishes.
The restaurant’s combination of high-quality food, friendly service, and a vibrant atmosphere makes it a must-visit for any traveler.
TRIO BURGER KOSHER PITA GRILL 
FALAFEL CALIENTE EN KOSHER PITA GRILL 
CHICKEN FINGERS EN KOSHER PITA GRILL 
HUMMUS EN KOSHER PITA GRILL 
ENSALADA SHAWARMA EN KOSHER PITA GRILL 
PAI PECAN EN KOSHER PITA GRILL 
SHAWARMA EN PITA EN KOSHER PITA GRILL 
PAN CAMPESINO DIRECTO DEL HORNO EN KOSHER PITA GRILL 
ALMORZANDO EN KOSHER PITA GRILL 
PIQUEO MARROQUI EN KOSHER PITA GRILL 
NUGGUETS DE POLLO EN KOSHER PITA GRILL 
FOCCACIA DE CARNE CON BERENGENA EN KOSHER PITA GRILL 
CONGELADOS KOSHER PARA PREPARAR EN CASA 
SANDWICHE DE CARNE KOSHER 
HAMBURGUESA BLACK FRIDAYS IN KOSHER PITA GRILL 
PITA SHAWARMA EN KOSHER PITA GRILL 
FALAFEL WRAP EN KOSHER PITA GRILL 
BUREKAS EN KOSHER PITA GRILL 
KOSHER PITA GRILL GUAYAQUIL
The Mi Comisariato supermarket, managed by the Czerninski family, is a vital pillar of the Jewish community. Thanks to the vision of Johnny Czerninski z”l and his son Gadi, high-quality kosher products are now widely available in Guayaquil.
Featured Products:
Whole kosher poultry, brisket, and premium cuts of meat.
Kosher wines from Israel, Italy, Spain, and Chile.
Long-life kosher milk under Chabad supervision.
Frozen products like tilapia, salmon, and ready-to-cook kosher hamburgers.
Baked goods including challah, puff pastry, and burekas with meat, potato, or spinach fillings.
MI COMISERIATO DE URDESA CON KOSHER 
CARNE Y POLLO KOSHER EN GUAYAQUIL 
SECCION KOSHER EN SUPERMERCADO EN GUAYAQUIL 
CARNE KOSHER EN GUAYAQUIL 
CARNE MOLIDA KOSHER EN GUAYAQUIL 
TILAPIA KOSHER EN MI COMISERIATO 
PICKLES Y PRODUCTOS KOSHER 
VINOS KOSHER EN GUAYAQUIL 
MASA HOJALDRE KOSHER EN GUAYAQUIL 
PAN KOSHER EN SUPER MARKET EN GUAYAQUIL
For Visitors in Quito
For those visiting Quito, Ecuador’s capital, there is also a welcoming Jewish community led by Rabbi Tomer Rotem and his wife, Rebbetzin Rivka Rotem, along with their children. They run the Chabad House Quito, a central hub for travelers and local residents alike.
Chabad House Quito
Address: José Tamayo N24-520, between 6 de Diciembre and Luis Cordero, Quito, Ecuador.
Website: Chabad Quito
Email: info@chabadquito.com
Phone: +593-2-250-7526
At Chabad House Quito, visitors can join Shabbat dinners, access kosher food, and enjoy a warm environment that fosters Jewish connection.
A Unique Jewish Experience in Ecuador
From Guayaquil to Quito, Ecuador offers a rich and authentic Jewish experience. With Kosher Pita Grill, the Cedros Inn Boutique Hotel, and Chabad House Quito, Jewish travelers can enjoy the perfect combination of tradition, comfort, and hospitality.
Kosher Ecuador: Your Jewish home in South America.
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