If you’re exploring the stunning Basilica del Voto Nacional and want to enjoy a great coffee before or after your visit, you’re in luck — the surrounding neighborhood is one of the best places in Quito to experience Ecuador’s world-class coffee culture. From cozy cafés to specialty roasters, this area offers something for every taste, whether you love a strong espresso, a creamy latte, or a slow-brewed pour-over made with Andean beans.
Here’s your guide to the best coffee spots located just steps away from the Basilica.
☕ 1. Isvendry Café – Local Vibes & Smooth Espresso
Just a short walk from the Basilica, Isvendry Café is known for its relaxed atmosphere and high-quality brews. They focus on beans from small Ecuadorian farms, offering everything from americanos to cappuccinos and seasonal specials.
Try this:
✔ Cappuccino
✔ Affogato (perfect on a warm afternoon!)
✔ House-made pastries
It’s a great place to sit, unwind, and plan the next part of your Quito adventure.
☕ 2. Raqeri – Coffee, Culture, and Ecuadorian Chocolate
Located near La Compañía de Jesús (a quick walk from the Basilica), Raqeri is more than a café — it’s a cultural experience. Known for its beautiful atmosphere and artisan products, this is also one of the best spots to try TO’AK, Ecuador’s famous luxury chocolate.
Why you’ll love it:
✔ Delicious local coffee
✔ Ecuadorian chocolate-tasting experiences
✔ A quiet, stylish environment for resting or working
Perfect for those who want a sophisticated coffee break.
☕ 3. Minka Café – Specialty Coffee in the Historic Center
Right in San Francisco Square, Minka Café offers expertly prepared specialty brews made from carefully selected beans sourced across Ecuador. If you love slow coffee — V60, Chemex, or AeroPress — this is the place.
Highlights:
✔ Amazing pour-over options
✔ Locally made desserts
✔ A social-impact project that supports local communities
A must-visit for serious coffee lovers.
☕ 4. Café Galletti – A Quito Coffee Classic
Café Galletti is just a quick stroll away and is loved by locals for its consistently delicious coffee and warm service. They roast their own beans, meaning each cup is fresh, aromatic, and rich.
Must-try options:
✔ Galleti espresso
✔ Flat white
✔ Ecuadorian coffee sampler
A great choice if you want something reliable, flavorful, and authentically Quito.
☕ 5. Tres Gatos Café – A Cozy Spot for Travelers
This small, artsy café is tucked within the historic streets near the Basilica and offers a welcoming environment, great customer service, and delicious hot drinks.
Try this:
✔ Café pasado (traditional Ecuadorian filtered coffee)
✔ Iced latte
✔ Homemade cakes
A perfect budget-friendly stop.
☕ Final Thoughts: Good Coffee Is Always Nearby
Whether you’re finishing your climb up the Basilica towers or simply exploring the historic center, you’ll find an excellent coffee shop just a few steps away. Each café in this area celebrates Ecuador’s incredible coffee heritage — from high-altitude beans to artisanal brewing techniques.
So take your time, pick a café that fits your vibe, and enjoy a cup of some of the best coffee in the world, right in the heart of Quito.
