The café culture in Lisbon blends straightforward espresso joints with relaxed brunch venues that prioritize excellence. While some establishments concentrate exclusively on coffee, others offer exceptional cuisine to complement their offerings—each has its own distinctive charm. Regardless of whether they're recent openings or long-standing cafés, all provide an outstanding experience.
In Lisbon, coffee is more than just a hurried pick-me-up; it’s an excuse to pause, take things easy, and savor every sip. Ditch those generic spots serving up identical drinks. These five cafes specialize in both their beans and brewing techniques.
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The top 5 cafes to sample in Lisbon
Hello, Kristof
Hello, Kristof isn't merely a café; it's the hub of the city's vibrant creativity. With its Scandinavian design, the space exudes cleanliness and simplicity but also feels welcoming and cozy. Their coffee is consistently excellent—rich, strong, and straightforward without any frills. There are no unnecessary embellishments, only quality and authenticity. Be it cortado Whether you opt for a pour-over, or simply go for a swift espresso, you can rely on it meeting your expectations. Should hunger strike, their selection of pastries isn’t merely an addition but something that will genuinely excite you enough to reach for another bite.
Buna
Buna focuses solely on quality. Each bean is carefully selected for flavor enhancement through roasting. Despite being compact, this place leaves a lasting impression. Regular customers often pop in for a quick espresso before leaving or enjoy their brew by the window. Be it a crisp filter coffee or a smooth flat white, these baristas excel at crafting excellent drinks. There's no fuss, no fanfare—simply great coffee.
Dramático
Dramático is a somewhat secluded place located in the heart of Príncipe Real. The ambiance here is minimalistic and tranquil, and without offering Wi-Fi, it serves as an ideal location if you wish to concentrate solely on enjoying your coffee. They source their beans from premium roasters such as La Cabra. Be it a refreshing espresso or a smooth cortado; each drink is prepared flawlessly every time.
The Folks
If you weren't aware of The Folks' location, you might easily miss it. Hidden close to Mercado da Ribeira, this is an establishment that regulars frequent after finding it. Their coffee isn't showy—just consistently well-prepared. The staff take pride in their offerings, which is evident in every sip. Be it a swift espresso or spending some time here, the atmosphere remains relaxed and welcoming.
The Mill
When seeking comfort in a drink and an exceptional brunch, The Mill is your destination. With an Australian vibe, this relaxed spot excels at delivering excellence. From freshly baked goods to delicious avocado toast and perfectly cooked eggs, their menu offers straightforward yet delightful dishes. Their coffee stands out as well, consistently being of high quality. Emphasizing authenticity over trends, they serve great-tasting beverages and meals in an environment that’s lively and inviting. Be it for a quick breakfast pick-me-up or leisurely weekend dining, The Mill never disappoints.