From families seeking nocturnal adventures to friends in search of fun and laughter, to couples wishing to immerse themselves in a romantic atmosphere, Quito has something special for every occasion.
With offerings ranging from authentic retro bars to sophisticated jazz lounges, and from lively squares to cozy cafes with breathtaking views, this city becomes the perfect backdrop for any nighttime plan you can imagine.
At our boutique hotel in Quito, we have years of experience advising each of our visitors staying in our rooms. The capital is full of options, and it’s important to put together an itinerary with the best recommendations. Every day counts! Keep reading the guide we bring for you.
Night strolls in history: Discover La Ronda in Quito
La Ronda, officially known as Calle Juan de Dios Morales, is one of Quito’s oldest and most emblematic streets. Located in the heart of the Historic Center, this cobblestone, winding street offers a window into the city’s past, combined with a bohemian and vibrant atmosphere that comes to life especially at night.
The adobe and tile houses lining the street date back to the 17th and 18th centuries, many of them restored to preserve their original architecture. These buildings house craft workshops, small art galleries, and restaurants offering local delights. The warm glow of wrought iron lanterns and the traditional music emanating from the venues transport you to a Quito of yesteryear.
It is also a cultural meeting point. Here, local artists display their work and give you the opportunity to take a piece of this region with you. If you’re interested in art, it’s important to know that on weekends, cultural houses organize events such as art exhibitions, painting workshops, and traditional dance performances.
It’s not uncommon to encounter characters dressed in period costumes narrating stories and legends of Quito, adding a touch of theatricality and authenticity to the experience.
We know that the true magic of La Ronda is revealed as night falls. The streets come alive with locals and tourists enjoying live music, dancing, and socializing.
Bars and taverns offer a wide range of drinks, from local craft beers to exotic cocktails. La Ronda is also famous for its “canelazos,” a hot drink made from aguardiente, naranjilla juice, and spices, perfect for Quito’s cool nights.
Don’t miss the opportunity to taste delicious Ecuadorian cuisine: a plate of locro, a thick soup of potatoes and corn with meat, a rich roasted cuy, a typical dish of the Andean region, and many others. Some establishments even allow visitors to observe the preparation process of these dishes.
Plaza Foch: Where the night comes alive in La Mariscal
Located in the heart of the La Mariscal district, Foch Square is undoubtedly the epicenter of nightlife in Quito. Popularly known as “La Zona,” this vibrant and cosmopolitan area is the ideal place for those seeking a night full of energy, music, and entertainment.
The square is surrounded by an eclectic mix of bars, nightclubs, restaurants, and cafes, each offering its own version of nightlife fun. The neon lights, music filtering out from the venues, and diverse crowd create an electrifying atmosphere that invites you to immerse yourself in the party.
At Foch Square you’ll find the best bars in Quito
The variety of bars and nightclubs in Foch Square is impressive. From cozy pubs with craft beer to elegant cocktail lounges and high-energy nightclubs, there’s something for everyone.
- Back To Bar: This bar offers a wide variety of craft beers and cocktails, along with live music and a lively atmosphere.
- Ambrosia BAR: A classic in Foch Square, known for its bohemian atmosphere and live music.
- The Corner Pub: An Irish pub with a wide variety of beers from around the world and a cozy atmosphere.
What about recommended restaurants?
- Michelasos al paso-Plaza Foch: This restaurant offers delicious Ecuadorian food at affordable prices.
- Mucho Gusto: An Italian restaurant with a wide variety of pizzas, pastas, and other Italian dishes.
- El Esmeraldeño: A restaurant specialized in Esmeraldeño cuisine, with typical dishes such as encocado and ceviche.
- El encoca’o sazón esmeraldeño: Another Esmeraldeño cuisine restaurant, with a casual atmosphere and affordable prices.
- El Chavo Foch: A bar with live music and a lively atmosphere.
- Banderas de la Foch: A restaurant with typical Ecuadorian food and a family-friendly atmosphere.
What’s best about these establishments? Most of them have live music at night.
If you want to secure a good table at a restaurant or a good spot at a bar, it’s best to arrive early, especially on weekends.
Boulevard of options: Exploring the night in Naciones Unidas
The Naciones Unidas Boulevard, also known as “The Avenue of the United Nations,” is one of the main arteries in the northern part of the city of Quito.
If you’re looking for a lively atmosphere and live music, you can visit one of the many bars or nightclubs. If you prefer a culinary experience, you’ll be able to choose from a wide range of restaurants offering Ecuadorian and international cuisine.
We recommend visiting bars such as:
- El Bar de la Esquina: A bar with a casual atmosphere and varied music, ideal for grabbing a beer with friends.
- The Rock Bar: A rock bar with a wide selection of beers and cocktails, perfect for rock music lovers.
- Disco La Terraza: A nightclub with electronic music and a modern atmosphere, perfect for dancing until dawn.
Some standout restaurants include:
- Zazu: A fine dining restaurant offering innovative dishes with fresh, local ingredients. Perfect for an elegant dinner.
- La Burguesa: Ideal for gourmet burger lovers, this place offers a variety of creative and delicious options.
- El Árabe: A restaurant offering authentic Middle Eastern cuisine, from falafel to shawarma, in a cozy and family-friendly atmosphere.
- La Casa de la Carne: Specializing in grilled meats, with a wide variety of cuts and sides.
- Los Moros: Traditional Ecuadorian cuisine restaurant, with typical dishes like locro and hornado.
- La Briciola: An Italian restaurant with delicious Italian food and a cozy atmosphere.
The area is home to several shopping malls and entertainment complexes offering a variety of activities:
- Quicentro Shopping: One of the largest and most modern shopping malls in Quito, where you can find everything from fashion stores to cinemas and play areas.
- Cinemark: A cinema offering the latest movies in comfortable theaters, ideal for a quiet night out after dinner.
- Escape 23: An escape room offering exciting and themed challenges, perfect for groups of friends or families looking for a different activity.
From craft fairs to live concerts, there’s always something interesting happening in the area. Nearby parks and squares along the boulevard are popular venues for these events, providing a vibrant and communal atmosphere.
Due to the area’s popularity, it’s advisable to make reservations at restaurants and bars, especially on weekends.
Nightlife on Naciones Unidas Boulevard starts from 7:00 PM.
Quiet nights with panoramic views at Café Mosaico
Located in the bohemian neighborhood of San Juan, Café Mosaico is a special place that offers a unique experience for those seeking a quiet and relaxed night in Quito. More than just a coffee shop, this charming establishment combines the warmth of a café with the most impressive panoramic views of the city.
The atmosphere is intimate and cozy, with an eclectic decoration that combines traditional and modern elements. Large windows and outdoor terraces offer unparalleled panoramic views of Quito’s rooftops, the surrounding mountains, and the majestic Panecillo illuminated at night. It’s a place where you can escape the urban hustle and immerse yourself in the quiet beauty of the city.
Café Mosaico offers a wide selection of coffees, teas, cocktails, beers, and wines. You can also find a variety of light dishes and desserts.
Some days of the week, they offer live music to create an even more enjoyable atmosphere.
It’s open every day from morning until night, with extended hours on weekends. It’s recommended to arrive early to ensure you get a table with views, especially during sunny days and clear nights. It’s also advisable to dress warmly, as temperatures can drop at night, especially on the outdoor terraces.
Is it necessary to make a reservation at Café Mosaico?
While it’s not mandatory to make a reservation at Café Mosaico, it’s highly recommended, especially if you plan to visit during weekends or peak hours. The café tends to fill up, especially on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights.
If you make a reservation, you’ll have a guaranteed table, even if the café is full. If you don’t make a reservation, you may have to wait for a while to get a table, especially if you’re in a group.
Guápulo: Find a quiet refuge on the outskirts of Quito
Guápulo, located on the outskirts of Quito, is a true hidden gem that captivates with its colonial charm and romantic atmosphere. Its narrow cobbled streets and well-preserved houses transport us to another era, creating a unique bohemian atmosphere.
It’s the ideal place for those seeking a quiet and memorable night away from the hustle and bustle of the city!
One of Guápulo’s main attractions is its bars and restaurants with stunning panoramic views of Quito. From the top of this picturesque neighborhood, you can enjoy a unique view of the illuminated city, with its twinkling lights extending to the horizon.
Restaurants in Guápulo offer a variety of gastronomic options ranging from traditional Ecuadorian cuisine to international dishes. Whether you prefer to savor local dishes like fritada or ceviche, or enjoy a gourmet dinner with international influences, you’ll find options to satisfy all tastes.
Moreover, many of these establishments offer an intimate and cozy atmosphere, perfect for a romantic evening or a quiet gathering among friends.
Book your room near the best nightlife attractions in the city
The best hotel to stay in Quito, Ecuador, has to be located in the best area: the historic center. Why should you choose accommodation in this special area of the city? There are several reasons that make Old Town Quito the ideal place to stay if you want to enjoy the best nightlife attractions in the city.
One of the main advantages of staying in this area is its convenient location. By staying in this area, you’ll be within walking distance of many of Quito’s main nightlife attractions.
Make your experience in Quito even better by staying in a strategic location. Find the best hotel deals in Quito and enjoy a comfortable stay near the city’s top attractions.
Whether you want to explore the nightlife of La Ronda, enjoy live music in Plaza de San Francisco, or simply stroll through the cobblestone streets while admiring the colonial architecture, everything will be right outside your door.
Ecuatreasures: A Boutique Hotel in Quito
Unlike large hotel chains, this type of hotel in Quito manages to capture the essence and charm of its location. Ecuatreasures offers you a unique and cozy atmosphere that reflects much of the city’s history.
Many years ago, we decided to renovate an old house in the Historic Center, which still retains the vast majority of its architectural details.
We are located in one of the safest areas of Quito, especially at night. This provides you with peace of mind and allows you to fully enjoy your stay in the city without worries.
With us, you’ll be just steps away from the best places in the Ecuadorian capital.
