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What to order
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Pantuga
Mentioned as the 'jewel of the crown' and praised for tasting like 'glory'; reviewers said they return for it and recommend trying it any time of day.
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Tortuga Panini
Described as very tasty and surprisingly good, with one reviewer specifically saying they came back for it; it also stands out for using locally grown oyster mushrooms.
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Caribeño Breakfast
Called a favorite breakfast option, with eggs, avocado, black beans, and rice; it was highlighted as a satisfying and well-liked morning dish.
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Avocado Salad
Included among the vegetarian dishes that were described as delicious, making it a recommended healthy option.
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5
Yucas Fritas
Ordered alongside other well-liked vegetarian dishes and mentioned positively as part of a delicious meal.
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6
Patacones
Specifically called out as good food in a busy, positive review, showing it was a satisfying choice.
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Empanadas
Mentioned together with patacones as part of a meal that the reviewer enjoyed, indicating they were a recommended snack or side.
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8
Panecook
Listed as part of a meal that was described as delicious, especially in a vegetarian-friendly context.
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9
Vegan Lemon Tart
Shared as dessert and described as delicious, with a note that it was made with maduro, which made it stand out.
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10
Tortuga Cookies
Called 'so cute' and singled out positively as a memorable item, especially appealing as a fun breakfast or café treat.
Details
Hours
| Monday | 7 AM to 9:30 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 7 AM to 9:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 7 AM to 9:30 PM |
| Thursday | 7 AM to 11 PM |
| Friday | 7 AM to 11 PM |
| Saturday | 7 AM to 11 PM |
| Sunday | 7 AM to 9:30 PM |
About Cafe Tortuga
Cafe Tortuga is a restaurant, coffee shop, coworking space, dessert restaurant, and vegetarian restaurant in Tena, Ecuador. Reviewers consistently praise its healthy and varied food, especially vegan and vegetarian dishes, along with great coffee, tea, and friendly service. It is described as a casual, cozy, quiet, and trendy place with outdoor and rooftop seating, Wi-Fi, and a riverfront or boardwalk setting. The menu and atmosphere make it popular for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and solo dining.
Amenities
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- No-contact delivery
- Delivery
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Great coffee
- Great dessert
- Great tea selection
- Live music
- Rooftop seating
Popular for
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- All you can eat
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Hard liquor
- Healthy options
- Quick bite
- Small plates
- Vegan options
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Counter service
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Gender-neutral restroom
- Restroom
- Wi-Fi
- Free Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Quiet
- Romantic
- Trendy
Crowd
- College students
- Groups
- Tourists
Planning
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
Children
- Good for kids
- Has changing table(s)
- High chairs
- Kids' menu
Parking
- Free parking lot
- Free street parking
- Usually plenty of parking
Pets
- Dogs allowed
- Dogs allowed inside
- Dogs allowed outside
Frequently asked
What is Cafe Tortuga known for?
Cafe Tortuga is best known for its healthy breakfast and brunch dishes, especially the Pantuga banana pancake, which reviewers call the standout item. People also highlight its specialty coffee, house guayusa, and vegetarian and vegan plates served in a riverfront setting in Tena.
What dishes are most recommended at Cafe Tortuga?
Reviewers repeatedly recommend the Pantuga banana pancake, the Caribeño breakfast with fried eggs, avocado, black beans, and rice, the tortuga panini, and the veggie burger. Other frequently mentioned favorites include empanadas, patacones, avocado salad, yucas fritas, and the vegan lemon tart.
What is the atmosphere like at Cafe Tortuga?
The vibe is described as cozy, quiet, colorful, and artistic, with a modern but nature-inspired look that fits Tena’s Amazonian setting. It seems to work well for groups, solo diners, and people who want to hang out, work, or relax over coffee and food.
Is Cafe Tortuga good value, and what is the price range?
Cafe Tortuga is in the $5 to $10 range, and reviewers note that it is not the cheapest option in Tena, with some saying prices feel closer to Quito. Even so, people mention fair prices and value, especially for the $6 lunch special that includes a wrap, salad, mini dessert, coffee, and juice.
What should I know about visiting Cafe Tortuga early or at peak times?
Reviewers say it opens very early, around 7am, and that it is a strong choice for breakfast and brunch. It can get busy, so reservations, Wi-Fi, and outdoor seating are useful if you want to settle in for a longer visit.
Is parking available at Cafe Tortuga?
Yes. Free parking lot, Free street parking, Usually plenty of parking is available.
Does Cafe Tortuga have vegetarian options?
Yes, Cafe Tortuga offers vegan options.
Is Cafe Tortuga kid-friendly?
Yes, Cafe Tortuga is good for kids.
