From Bartender to Business Owner: Ecuadorians Conquer U.S. Market with Food and Entertainment

Gabriela Espinoza arrived in the United States from Quito five and a half years ago, initially seeking work as a bartender at an establishment owned by Washington Espinoza, an Ecuadorian from Cariamanga, Loja. What began as a professional encounter evolved into a romantic relationship and, subsequently, two thriving businesses targeting the migrant community: Mamazzita, focusing on gastronomy, and Baru Entertainment, centered on shows and performances.

Their entrepreneurial journey highlights the enduring economic and migratory connection between Ecuador and the United States. Between January and March 2026 alone, migrants sent $1.441 billion in remittances to Ecuador from the U.S., accounting for 77.6% of all remittances received during that period, according to the Central Bank of Ecuador (BCE). While many families rely on these funds, Gabriela and Washington have created a business empire that taps into a different, yet equally powerful, cross-border need: the desire for Ecuadorians to reconnect with their homeland through familiar tastes and sounds.

The economic impact of Ecuadorian migration is starkly illustrated by these remittances. Ecuador received $1.8567 billion in the first quarter of 2026, a 7.7% increase from the same period in 2025. The U.S. was by far the largest source, contributing $1.441 billion, a 9.3% rise compared to the previous year. Spain followed as the second-largest source, with $264.8 million. The average value of each remittance from the U.S. during this period was $377.

Washington arrived in the U.S. about 17 years ago, while Gabriela has been there for five and a half years. Their paths converged when Gabriela sought employment. Washington's business acumen was already evident; he had started as a promoter and later became manager of the establishment before the Portuguese owners offered him the chance to rent the venue with an option to buy. This venture required significant capital, with the initial operation estimated at around $300,000, a sum he secured with family assistance. He further invested approximately $500,000 to remodel the space, transforming it into a discotheque and performance venue capable of hosting 350 to 400 people.