Coming from the Pacific Northwest, we here at the GoGo Team are admittedly a bit snobby with our beers, so it probably goes without saying that Pilsener and Club just don’t cut it for us. La Compania brewery is only one of three microbreweries in Ecuador, and the only microbrewery in Cuenca. It offers “a break from the norm,” even if their beers tend to lack consistency. Each new batch varies in quality and flavor, but with a high alcohol content (6 to 9% ABV, Pilsener is 4.2%), at least they consistently pack a punch.

Although all 3 varieties are not always available (read: hardly), in theory they offer a Rubia (blond), Rojo (red) and a Negro (stout). The stout has up to 9% ABV, so beware, the pints will catch up to ya.

Undoubtedly the best thing about this Cuenca brewery are the prices: a regular pint is only $2, medium $3, and the ridiculously large glass will only set you back $4. There are some snacks on offer, but they’re hardly worth ordering, so come with a full stomach ready to drink.

The atmosphere offers Western-style, dark-wooden bar decor; with a bottom floor and a loft there is usually plenty of seating. The walls are adorned with the owner’s collection of laser-disk film sleeves, as well as your quintessential beer posters from around the world. And with Cuenca’s new non-smoking laws, the bar now has a much more breathable drinking ambiance.

La Compania Microbrewery is located on Borrero and Vasquez, right across from Coffee Tree, and is open nightly, Monday through Saturday.