A Fine Time Starts With A Fine Brew
Jodoco Belgian Bistro: A Taste of Belgium in Cuenca
Jodoco Belgian Bistro: A Taste of Belgium in the Heart of Cuenca
Tucked into Cuenca’s historic San Sebastián quarter, Jodoco Belgian Bistro brings authentic Belgian brewing and cuisine to Ecuador’s highlands. Founded by Belgian expatriate Carlos Vuegen, this cozy brew house combines European tradition with local ingredients—and the result is an unmistakably Belgian experience at 2,563 m above sea level.
From Belgium to Ecuador
Belgian-born brewmaster Carlos Vuegen dreamed of sharing his homeland’s rich beer culture with Cuenca. In 2024, he oversaw the installation of a 500 L three-vessel brewhouse, fermentation tanks, and bright beer tanks—equipment imported from China and customized to split its time between classic Belgian styles and experimental Cuencan twists.
Within weeks of launch, Jodoco was pouring eight in-house brews, from a fruity Saison to a 9 % ABV Quadrupel dubbed “Ambiorix,” alongside some 30 imported Belgian labels.
A Menu of Belgian Favorites
More than just beer, Jodoco’s kitchen turns out a panoply of Belgian classics:
- Bitterballen: Beer-braised meat croquettes, golden and crisp.
- Moules-Frites: Steaming mussels in broth served with hand-cut fries.
- Steak au Poivre: Pepper-crusted beef with a creamy pan sauce.
- House-made Waffles: Light, fluffy, and perfect for breakfast or dessert.
- Chocolate Mousse: Rich and velvety, a sweet finale to any meal.
“Every bite felt like a culinary postcard from Brussels,” one TripAdvisor guest enthuses.
The Jodoco Experience
Located at Calle San Sebastián y Mariscal Sucre, just steps from Parque San Sebastián, Jodoco’s wood-and-brick interior feels both warm and contemporary. Exposed brick walls are hung with vintage Belgian posters, and long communal tables invite conversation over a shared flight of brews.
Knowledgeable staff guide newcomers through pairings—try the shrimp bruschetta with a light, peppery Witbier. Open Tuesday–Sunday, 9 AM–11 PM (late into the evening on weekends), Jodoco welcomes everyone from early risers craving a hearty waffle breakfast to night owls seeking a final beer before bedtime.
Why You Should Go
- Authenticity: Brewed by a Belgian using traditional equipment and recipes.
- Variety: Eight house-made beers on tap, dozens more by the bottle.
- Cuisine: From steak au poivre to deep-fried fritures, every dish pairs perfectly with a glass of Belgian brew.
- Atmosphere: A chic yet relaxed setting in one of Cuenca’s most charming neighborhoods.
Whether you’re a seasoned beer aficionado or simply looking for a memorable night out, Jodoco Belgian Bistro delivers a genuine taste of Belgium—without leaving Ecuador. Cheers, or as they say in Flanders, “Proost!”