If you're ever in quito, one place you absolutely should go to is called aladin. this is a middle-eastern hang out run by a few really nice, english speaking middle-easterners. they import most of their wares, such as intricately designed ash trays, delicate utensils and dishes, 3-foot hookahs, and heavy, elaborately made chess sets (you just might feel like you're in iran or something!). you can have a cup of tea & snack at one of the couches, play a game of chess at the tables, or smoke a hookah of many varieties of flavored tobacco out on their patio. delicious food, incredible ambiance; it's one of the coolest places i've been!