Blog

🕊️ COLIBRÍ CIC: a project born from the heart of EL INCA PLEBEYO

We officially launched COLIBRÍ CIC on January 31st 2026, celebrating community, culture, and the joy of giving back. Inspired by the hummingbird’s resilience, this initiative transforms our long‑standing social efforts into a mission to support vulnerable Ecuadorian families. Rooted in 'minga', COLIBRÍ aims to spread hope, connection, and lasting impact.

Serving Hope: Organizing a Food Bank During COVID-19

Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, I organized a food bank inspired by a neighbor's struggles. With support from friends, volunteers, and local businesses, we provided essential items safely to families in need. The initiative brought hope, strengthened community bonds, and grew into a lasting resource, showcasing the power of compassion and unity in tough times.

An Ecuadorian Valentine's Day

Valentine’s Day in Ecuador is a warm, communal celebration known as “Día del Amor y la Amistad”, honouring not just romantic partners but also friends and loved ones. People exchange handmade cards, small gifts and heartfelt messages across all ages. Food plays a central role: sharing a home‑cooked meal is seen as one of the most authentic expressions of affection, emphasising connection and togetherness around the table.

Expanding Our Culinary Dream: The Journey of Opening a Second Restaurant

The success of our first restaurant, El Inca Plebeyo, inspired us to open a second location at the Hux Hotel in Kensington, combining modern Ecuadorian cuisine with a fresh, seasonal twist. Despite the challenges of launching a new venture, the support of our community and the lessons from our first restaurant has strengthened our resolve to create a welcoming space where great food and meaningful connections come together.

November 23, 2024

Roots in the Land: Growing Up in the Ecuadorian countryside ‘Gonzanama’

Growing up on a countryside farm shaped my values of hard work, resilience, and a deep connection to nature. From helping my parents with crops and animals to exploring the woods barefoot with my siblings, those simple yet challenging days instilled lessons that guide me even now as I share the farm's magic with my own children during visits to my family's land in Gonzanama.

From Recipes to Reality: The Journey of Opening Our Family Restaurant

From humble beginnings as a kitchen porter to opening my own restaurant in Islington, my journey has been one of hard work, mentorship, and a passion for showcasing Ecuadorian gastronomy. Together with my wife, we transformed family recipes into a community space filled with love, laughter, and the rich flavors of our heritage, creating a home where culture and tradition thrive.

National Geographic Food Festival 2024 – tamales

Hosting a live cooking show at the National Geographic Food event was an exhilarating experience. I showcased my signature Ecuadorian tamales, sharing cultural insights and cooking tips with an engaged audience. Despite small challenges, the event celebrated connection, community, and the joy of food, inspiring me to continue sharing Ecuadorian gastronomy.