Azuay's Guinea Pig Industry Goes Global: Mr. Cuy Ships Fresh Cuy to New York

If you've lived in Cuenca for any length of time, you've seen them: rows of roasted guinea pigs turning golden on spits outside restaurants, or whole cuy served on a platter at family gatherings. Now, that distinctly Azuayan flavor is making its way to dinner tables in New York City.

From Gualaceo to Queens

Mr. Cuy, based in Gualaceo canton about 35 kilometers east of Cuenca, has become the first Azuayan company to export fresh guinea pig to the United States. Founded by Adrian Gutama, an Ecuadorian migrant who invested $170,000 to build a processing plant, the company works with over 500 local producers across the rural areas of Azuay province.

The operation is ambitious: Mr. Cuy aims to ship 1,000 guinea pigs to New York every week. They even took out a billboard in Times Square to announce their launch.

Why It Matters for Expats

For expats who've developed a taste for cuy during their time in Ecuador, this is noteworthy—especially if you have family or friends back in the States who've never understood what all the fuss is about. Now you can tell them to visit WaPe Market in Flushing, Queens, where frozen cuy retails for around $27.

But there's a larger story here about Azuay's economy. The guinea pig industry represents a significant income source for hundreds of rural families in the province. When you order cuy at a local restaurant or buy one at Feria Libre, you're supporting a supply chain that stretches into small farms throughout the countryside.

Fresh vs. Frozen: The Azuay Advantage

According to company representatives, the key differentiator from Peruvian competitors is freshness and flavor. Peru exported about 8.4 tons of guinea pig in 2023, but Mr. Cuy claims the Peruvian product arrives frozen with a different taste profile.

"We have made the effort to bring a fresh guinea pig and above all with the characteristic flavor of Azuay," the company stated.

Where to Try Cuy in Cuenca

If you haven't yet tried cuy—or want to introduce visiting friends and family—here are reliable spots:

• Tres Estrellas (Av. Don Bosco) - Classic preparation, reasonable prices
• Feria Libre - Buy whole roasted cuy on market days
• Restaurants in Gualaceo - Make a day trip to the source

Tip: Cuy is traditionally served whole. Don't be put off by the presentation—the meat is similar to rabbit, with crispy skin that's considered the best part.