Grocery shopping in Cuenca is an experience in itself. The Feria Libre is one of the largest open-air markets in the region, offering everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to meats, grains, and household items at incredibly low prices.
For those used to supermarkets, Cuenca has several — Supermaxi, Gran Akí, and Coral Centro are the most popular. They carry many imported products, though at higher prices than local markets.
When it comes to food safety, the general rule is to wash everything thoroughly. Tap water in Cuenca is treated and generally considered safe, though many locals and expats prefer filtered or bottled water for drinking.
Fresh produce is abundant and affordable. Seasonal fruits like babaco, naranjilla, and tree tomatoes are local favorites you won’t find easily elsewhere. Learning to cook with local ingredients is one of the joys of living here.