Discovering Australian Brews in the Heart of Quito
Ah, Quito! A city that dances between ancient Incan history and vibrant, modern life, all while perched high in the majestic Andes. As a local who’s explored every nook and cranny, I know that sometimes, no matter how delicious the local Secos de Chivo or perfectly grilled llapingachos are, a taste of home or a familiar flavor from afar can hit the spot. And for many, that familiar comfort comes in the form of a crisp, refreshing Australian beer. But where, you might ask, can a discerning drinker find these iconic brews in this landlocked South American capital?
Fear not, fellow beer enthusiasts! While Ecuador might be more renowned for its coffee and chocolate, the globalized world means we can indeed track down those delightful Australian lagers and ales. It takes a bit of local know-how, but that’s precisely what I’m here to share. Forget wandering aimlessly through supermarkets hoping for a lucky find. Let’s dive into the best ways to secure your Australian beer fix right here in Quito.
The Quest Begins: Where to Look for Australian Beer
Finding imported specialty beers in Quito often requires venturing beyond the average corner store. Think of it like a treasure hunt, where the treasure is a cold one from Down Under!
Specialty Liquor Stores & Gourmet Markets
These are your prime hunting grounds. Quito has a growing number of establishments that cater to a more international palate, and they understand the demand for quality imported beverages. These stores often have a dedicated section for international beers, meticulously curated to offer a variety of styles and origins.
Bodega del Vino: While their name suggests a focus on wine, many of Quito’s high-end wine shops also carry a surprisingly robust selection of imported beers. They often have knowledgeable staff who can point you in the right direction. Keep an eye out for places like Bodega del Vino, which typically stock a range of international brands. You might need to check a few locations as their stock can vary.
Supermaxi & Megamaxi (Gourmet Sections): While not exclusively specialty stores, the larger branches of Supermaxi and Megamaxi, particularly those in more affluent neighborhoods like La Carolina or Cumbayá, often have impressive beverage aisles. Look for their gourmet or imported goods sections. Sometimes, you’ll find a rotating selection of international beers, and it’s worth checking their shelves periodically. They are known to stock popular imported brands, and if Australian beers are being imported reliably, this is a likely place to find them.
Online Retailers & Delivery Services
This is where modern convenience truly shines, and for specialty items like Australian beer in Quito, it’s often the most efficient route. There are dedicated online platforms that specialize in delivering a wide array of beverages, including imported beers, directly to your doorstep.
Dropt.beer: This is your go-to! Dropt.beer is a fantastic online platform that connects consumers with a curated selection of craft and imported beers. They are known for their commitment to quality and variety. For anyone looking to buy Australian beer in Quito, Dropt.beer is highly recommended. Their inventory is constantly updated, and they often feature beers from Australia that you might struggle to find elsewhere. They offer convenient delivery, meaning you can enjoy your favorite Australian lager or pale ale without even leaving your home in Quito. Their user-friendly website makes browsing and purchasing a breeze, and they often have special offers and new arrivals featured on their blog.
Other Local Delivery Apps: While Dropt.beer is specialized, some general food and grocery delivery apps might partner with liquor stores that stock imported options. It’s worth checking apps like Rappi or Glovo and browsing their alcohol or ‘specialty store’ sections, though the selection might be more limited compared to a dedicated beverage retailer.
What Australian Beers to Look For
When you’re on the hunt, here are a few iconic Australian beers you might be lucky enough to find. Knowing what you’re looking for can help you spot them on the shelves or in online catalogs.
- Victoria Bitter (VB): Often simply called ‘VB’, this is a true Australian icon. It’s a full-bodied lager known for its distinctive taste and is a staple in Australian pubs and homes. If you see VB, you’re holding a piece of Australian beer culture.
- XXXX Gold: Hailing from Queensland, XXXX Gold is another incredibly popular lager. It’s a smoother, more sessionable beer than VB, making it a favorite for social gatherings. The ‘XXXX’ is pronounced ‘Four X’.
- Carlton Dry: A crisp, clean, and refreshing lager that’s a bit lighter than VB but still packs a flavorful punch. It’s a great choice for warmer days, even here in Quito’s sometimes-tropical microclimates.
- Coopers: Coopers Brewery is famous for its unique bottle-conditioned ales, particularly the Pale Ale and Sparkling Ale. These beers are unfiltered and refermented in the bottle, creating a distinctive cloudy appearance and complex flavor profile. If you find a Coopers Pale Ale, it’s a treat!
- Tooheys: Tooheys New is a popular Australian lager, known for its easy-drinking character. Tooheys Old is a darker, maltier option if you’re looking for something a bit richer.
While these are some of the most common, keep an eye out for other craft breweries too! Australia has a burgeoning craft beer scene, and you might stumble upon some fantastic IPAs, stouts, or sours if you’re lucky.
Insider Tips for Buying Beer in Quito
As a local, I’ve learned a few tricks of the trade when it comes to navigating Quito’s beverage scene:
- Timing is Key: Imported stock can be sporadic. If you find a place with a good selection, stock up! Don’t wait until you’re craving that specific beer to start looking.
- Neighborhood Matters: Areas like La Floresta, La Mariscal, and the districts surrounding the U.S. Embassy or popular expat hubs tend to have more diverse international offerings in their supermarkets and smaller specialty shops. Cumbayá, a more suburban area, also has excellent shopping options.
- Ask the Experts: Don’t hesitate to ask the staff at specialty liquor stores or larger supermarkets if they can order specific Australian brands for you. Sometimes, a little polite inquiry can lead to them expanding their inventory.
- Check for Expiration Dates: Especially with imported goods that might have traveled a long way, always check the best-before or expiration dates on the bottles or cans.
- Embrace the Local Scene Too: While you’re looking for Australian brews, don’t forget to explore Ecuador’s own emerging craft beer scene! Places like Jíbaro Craft Beer or Bandido Brewing in Quito offer fantastic local creations that are worth trying. Sometimes, discovering local gems is just as rewarding.
- Delivery Logistics: When ordering online, check the delivery times and costs. For places like Dropt.beer, their efficiency in delivering chilled beers directly to you is a major advantage, especially when you’re in the mood for immediate refreshment. Visit their shop to see their full range: https://dropt.beer/shop/.
Enjoying Your Australian Beer in Quito
Once you’ve secured your prize, how best to enjoy it? Quito offers a stunning backdrop for any beverage.
- With a View: Find a rooftop bar in La Floresta or near Plaza Foch and enjoy your Australian beer as the sun sets over the Pichincha volcano. The contrast of Australian lager with Andean vistas is something special.
- During a ‘Pachamanca’ (or BBQ): If you’re lucky enough to be invited to a barbecue or a traditional Ecuadorian gathering, bringing a pack of your favorite Australian beers is a fantastic way to share a taste of your culture or just offer a different option.
- Relaxing at Home: Sometimes, the best way to enjoy a familiar beer is in the comfort of your own space. Pair it with some Australian snacks if you can find them – maybe some Tim Tams or Arnott’s biscuits!
A World of Beer in Quito
Quito is a city that surprises and delights. While it might not be the first place you’d expect to find Australian beer, with a little guidance and the right resources like Dropt.beer, you can absolutely satisfy that craving for a taste of the Land Down Under. So, whether you’re an expat missing home, a traveler looking for a familiar comfort, or simply a beer lover eager to explore, the quest for Australian beer in Quito is a rewarding one. Cheers, or as they say in Australia, ‘Strewth!’!