Our Story
A Journey of
Passion & Flavor
Who We Are
Bringing People Together Through Food
Kurimanka is rooted in the life story of its founder, Zoila—born and raised in Ecuador, where her love for cooking began at a very young age. Growing up in a family where food meant love, tradition, and togetherness, Zoila learned everything she could from her grandmother and her mother, who taught her the heart of Ecuadorian home cooking.
In 2004, she opened her first restaurant, Turumanka, marking the beginning of her professional culinary journey. Years later, in 2011, Zoila traveled to Argentina to further specialize in cuisine, gaining new techniques, perspectives, and hands-on experience that shaped her vision as a chef and entrepreneur.
In 2016, Zoila arrived in the United States with a dream—to one day open a restaurant again, this time creating something truly unique. After years of hard work, perseverance, and dedication, that dream became a reality in 2026 with the opening of Kurimanka: a place where Ecuadorian tradition meets a modern dining experience, and where every dish tells a story of heritage, passion, and resilience.
22+ Years
Culinary Journey
3 Countries
🇪🇨 • 🇦🇷 • 🇺🇸
2026
Kurimanka Founded
“Kurimanka is more than a restaurant — it is the story of a dream built with tradition, courage, and love for food.”
Philosophy
From Coast to Amazon
Over generations, the people of Ecuador have created a rich and diverse cuisine shaped by the country’s incredible landscapes and natural abundance. From the coast to the Andes, Ecuadorian cooking reflects a deep connection to the land, the sea, and tradition. Over time, this cuisine has continued to evolve, influenced by the many cultures that have shaped Ecuador’s identity—Indigenous heritage, Spanish roots, African influences, and regional traditions—coming together to create flavors that are both authentic and deeply rooted in history.
Zoila Today
Zoila is a passionate and determined woman whose life has been shaped by hard work, perseverance, and a deep love for cooking. From an early age, she learned the value of dedication and the importance of pursuing her dreams with courage and commitment. Throughout the years, she has worked tirelessly to build a life centered on family, culture, and entrepreneurship.
Cooking has always been at the heart of Zoila’s journey. Inspired by the rich traditions of Ecuadorian cuisine, she developed her skills in the kitchen by preparing dishes that carry the flavors and memories of home. For Zoila, cooking is not just about food—it is about sharing culture, bringing people together, and creating moments of joy around the table.
As an entrepreneur, Zoila has shown incredible determination and resilience. Day by day, she continues to push forward, working hard to turn her vision into reality. Her dedication to her craft and her unwavering spirit have allowed her to transform her passion into a meaningful project that reflects her identity and her roots.
Today, Zoila stands as an inspiring example of a hardworking and loving woman who believes in the power of dreams and perseverance. Through her work and her cooking, she shares the warmth of Ecuadorian hospitality and the authentic flavors of her homeland with every guest who walks through the doors.
At Kurimanka, every dish reflects Zoila’s story—prepared with care, tradition, and above all, with love.
