Lisbon ~ The Coffee Break Guide
First, a little bit about coffee culture
If you are a coffee lover, there is no doubt that you will feel at home in the Portuguese capital. Drinking coffee is part of daily life here, and this relationship goes back to a long time ago. Besides, it is Portugal that played an important role in expanding coffee within Europe in the 18th century because of its colonies. Like all growing cities, Lisbon’s coffee scene has been transformed these past years to provide - in addition to the traditional places, more trendy hotspots to satisfy the increasing number of tourists, and expats. Ready to have some inspiration for a quick caffeine fix in Lisbon? Let's dive in!
1. Marquise da Mobler
If I say a coffee place with artisanal pastry in a cute concept store, are you in? That's what Marquise da Mobler is about. From mugs to furniture, you can buy everything there while enjoying your coffee. Some items are made in Portugal, but you can also find handmade Mexican rugs, Peruvian blankets, or vintage armchairs. If that wasn't enough, they also sell flowers. This is definitely the kind of coffee shop that brings me joy. Oh and try their coconut pastry, it's to die for 🤤
2. Seagull Method Café
This place reminds me of so many great moments I had with friends and family that I had to mention this cute one. The decoration is charming and you instantly feel welcomed thanks to the warm atmosphere and the amiability of the employees. When I go there, I know for sure that I will have a great time, simple as that. Plus, I love the neighborhoods you will definitely enjoy your walk going there, and the food is amazing too!
3. Café Janis
Another popular spot for coffee lovers in Lisbon. They serve a variety of coffee drinks, as well as brunch, lunch, and dinner. The cafe has a stylish and modern interior with exposed brick walls, plants, and plenty of natural light. I just love the atmosphere of this place, and the yellow facade is quite Instagrammable too!
4. Comoba
Comoba is a vegan and vegetarian cafe that serves organic food and coffee. They have a focus on sustainability and use locally-sourced ingredients. The cafe has a relaxed and bohemian atmosphere, with plenty of plants and natural light. I love their granola, and it's a nice café to work too!
5. Buna
If you don't know what a nitro cold brew coffee is, it might be the best place to give it a try! Let me give you a clue : it is a coffee served like a draught beer, but without alcohol. Opened in 2019 by two former schoolmates from Moscow, Buna is a place for passionates that enjoy quality products in a simple and yet pleasant location. They source their beans from small farms around the world and offer a variety of single-origin coffees.
6. Confeitaria National
An authentic place that exists since 1829 and that has been frequented by the Portuguese Royal family. For breakfast or for a break while visiting the city, enjoy some fresh pastries with a cup of coffee in this charming place. Its location is right in the center, so it’s an easy one to pass by!
7. A Brasiliera
A historical part of the city. This café is classified as a public good since 1997 for its beautiful architecture and its location right in the heart of the Chiado district. The name is a reference to the coffee's origins and was previously a place to make people discover the drink and learn how to make it. After some time, it rapidly became a renowned establishment and a place for intellectual and artistic gatherings. This a must-do during your visit to the city if you like discovering the city's old treasures.
8. Fabrica da Nata
This is a place where I frequently go to treat myself with a gosh so good pastel de nata. It is situated at the beginning of the splendid Avenida da Liberdade. Another place that you can easily add on your itinerary because you will for sure pass by this avenue. The pastries are simply delicious, still hot, soft and crispy, all at the same time. This is heaven, I'm telling you! More than these delicious cream custard tarts, the decoration is stunning with typical tiles of Portugal (azulejos). It is because of places like these that I became a fan of the coffee + pastel break at 2pm.
9. Quiosque Ribeira das Naus
A great place for an outdoor cafe, facing the Tagus river on a deckchair with the sound of seagulls. Does a better coffee break exist?
10. Casa São Miguel
At a street corner in the famous Alfama district, there is this super cute place where you can enjoy a coffee (or tea) in an old porcelain cup from ancient Portuguese factories. It opened in April 2020, and the Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles bring you to another time. It is a great place to take it slow, have a good conversation, or simply read a book on the chairs outside. All the products are local, and you can find some pastel de nata tea, homemade jams, as well as some biscuits and liqueurs.
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