I am a huge coffee drinker, and for my second trip to Lisbon, I felt as if the coffee scene wasn’t so strong. Boy, was I wrong!
I just got back from a Family Lisbon trip and I wish I had more time just to explore the amazing cafes in Lisbon. If you love coffee and are planning to visit Lisbon, sit back and smell the roast.
Lisbon is a city that has it all – stunning architecture, a rich history, delicious food, and lively culture. It’s no wonder that this Portuguese capital is fast becoming one of the hottest travel destinations in Europe. Lets dive into the best cafes in Lisbon.
From the narrow streets of Alfama to the historic buildings of Belem, Lisbon is a feast for the senses. And the roasters are wide awake.
The Cafe In Portuguese Culture
The cafe is one of the most important aspects of Portuguese culture. Locals gather here to catch up and enjoy a cup of coffee or tea. A visit to a cafe is an important part of many people’s daily lives.
However, cafes in Lisbon are more than just places to get a caffeine fix. They are a center of social activity, a place where people can relax and enjoy the moment.
If you’re going to Lisbon and enjoy a good cafe, you’re in for a treat! In this post, we’ll look at the best cafes in Lisbon, from historic landmarks to trendy new spots. We’ll also delve into the culture and history of coffee in Lisbon, as well as answer some of the most frequently asked questions about breakfast and coffee in the city.
So, take a seat, relax, and prepare to sip a taste of Lisbon.
The Cafe in Portuguese Culture
The cafe is one of the most important aspects of Portuguese culture. Locals gather here to catch up and enjoy a cup of coffee or tea. A visit to a cafe is an important part of many people’s daily lives.
However, cafes in Lisbon are more than just places to get a caffeine fix. They are a center of social activity, a place where people can relax and enjoy the moment.
If you’re going to Lisbon and enjoy a good cafe, you’re in for a treat! In this post, we’ll look at the best cafes in Lisbon, from historic landmarks to trendy new spots.
We’ll also delve into the culture and history of coffee in Lisbon, as well as answer some of the most frequently asked questions about breakfast and coffee in the city.
So, take a seat, relax, and prepare to sip a taste of Lisbon.
Origins of Coffee in Portugal
Coffee was introduced to Portugal in the 16th century as a result of the country’s trading links with North Africa and the Middle East. The drink quickly became popular in Portugal, and large quantities were imported. By the 18th century, Lisbon had established itself as a major center of the coffee trade.
The Role of Lisbon in the coffee trade
Because of its location at the mouth of the Tagus River, Lisbon was an ideal port for receiving coffee shipments from all over the world. The beans were then transported to other parts of Europe. The coffee trade brought enormous wealth to the city and helped to develop its infrastructure and cultural scene.
The oldest cafes in Lisbon
Many of Lisbon’s cafes have a long history dating back centuries. Cafe Martinho da Arcada, which opened in 1782, is said to be the city’s oldest cafe.
Cafe A Brasileira, which opened in 1905 and quickly became a favorite haunt of intellectuals and artists, and Pastelaria Versailles, which has been serving delicious pastries and coffee since 1922, are two other historic cafes.
These cafes are not only important cultural landmarks but also serve as a testament to Lisbon’s long-standing love affair with coffee.
Cafe A Brasileira
Cafe A Brasileira, which first opened its doors in 1905, is a Lisbon landmark. It quickly became a favorite hangout for intellectuals and artists, including poet Fernando Pessoa, who was a frequent visitor.
The cafe is in the Chiado district and is easily identified by the statue of Pessoa outside.
Cafe A Brasileira is well-known for its bica, a robust and flavorful espresso that is a staple of Portuguese coffee culture. The cafe also serves pastries and light bites, including its signature croissants.
Cafe A Brasileira’s interior is decorated with antique mirrors, chandeliers, and vintage tiles, lending it a timeless and elegant feel. The outdoor seating area is ideal for people-watching and taking in the buzz of Chiado.
Photo via Wikipedia
Pastelaria Versailles
Founded in 1922, Pastelaria Versailles is one of the most popular and well-known cafes in Lisbon. It is a family-owned and operated business that has been handed down through several generations.
Pastelaria Versailles is well-known for its pastries, which include the traditional Portuguese custard tart, the pastel de nata. In addition to coffee and tea, the cafe serves sandwiches, quiches, and salads.
Pastelaria Versailles’ interior is opulent and grand, with marble floors, chandeliers, and antique furnishings. The cafe is often busy with locals and tourists alike, making for a lively and bustling atmosphere.
Cafe Nicola
Cafe Nicola is one of the oldest cafes in Lisbon, dating back to 1787. It has played an important role in the city’s cultural history and was a favorite meeting spot for writers and artists in the 19th and 20th centuries.
Cafe Nicola is well-known for its traditional Portuguese coffee drinks, such as the galo, a tall glass of milky coffee. The cafe also offers a selection of pastries and light bites.
With high ceilings, antique mirrors, and classic furnishings, the interior of Cafe Nicola is elegant and sophisticated. The outdoor seating area is ideal for people-watching on the busy pedestrian street of Rua Augusta.
Fabrica Coffee Roasters
Fabrica Coffee Roasters, founded in 2009, is a modern and trendy cafe. It’s a favorite among coffee connoisseurs and has received numerous awards for its artisanal coffee roasts.
Fabrica Coffee Roasters specializes in specialty coffee drinks such as pour-over coffee and cold brew. The cafe also offers a variety of light bites and pastries.
Fabrica Coffee Roasters’ interior design is sleek and minimalist, with a focus on the art and science of coffee-making. On a sunny day, the cafe also has an outdoor seating area where you can enjoy a cup of coffee.
Other Notable Cafes in Lisbon
While the cafes we’ve mentioned thus far are among the most well-known and popular in Lisbon, there are many more worth visiting. Here are a few more that are worth checking out:
Cafe Martinho da Arcada
Cafe Martinho da Arcada, located in Lisbon’s historic Baixa neighborhood, is one of the city’s oldest and most iconic cafes. It was founded in 1782 and has been frequented by famous Portuguese writers and intellectuals such as Fernando Pessoa and Eça de Queirós over the years.
The interior of the cafe is ornate and charming, with marble-topped tables and Art Deco touches. Try their famous “bica” coffee and pastries.
Confeitaria Nacional
Founded in 1829, Confeitaria Nacional is one of the oldest and most traditional pastry shops in Lisbon. While they offer a variety of sweet treats, their coffee is also worth trying. The cafe’s interior is elegant and old-fashioned, with ornate mirrors and chandeliers. Be sure to try their “meia de leite” coffee and a traditional Portuguese pastry.
Cafe Tati
Cafe Tati, located in the trendy neighborhood of Graça, is a cozy and welcoming cafe that is popular with both locals and visitors. With mismatched furniture and vintage accents, the decor is eclectic and colorful.
They serve a variety of coffee drinks and light snacks, and they frequently host live music and other cultural events. Try their “galo” coffee and enjoy the bohemian atmosphere.
In general, there are numerous cafes to discover and enjoy in Lisbon and throughout Portugal. Whether you’re looking for a historic and elegant establishment or a cozy and welcoming neighborhood cafe, you’re sure to find something to your liking.
Trending Coffee Shops in Lisbon
Lisbon has recently become a hotspot for trendy and innovative coffee shops. Here are some of the most popular and talked-about cafes to visit:
Hello Kristof
Hello Kristof, which opened in 2014, is a stylish and minimalist cafe that is popular with both locals and visitors. They serve a wide range of specialty coffee drinks, as well as light snacks and baked goods. Be sure to try their “flat white” coffee and their homemade granola.
They are getting a very high vote for the best cafes in Lisbon, or at least best coffee.
Copenhagen Coffee Lab
Originally founded in Copenhagen, Denmark, Copenhagen Coffee Lab has since expanded to Lisbon and several other cities around the world. They are known for their high-quality and ethically-sourced coffee, as well as their sleek and modern decor.
Be sure to try their “V60” pour-over coffee and their signature “Croffle” (a croissant-waffle hybrid).They have the best cappuccino in Lisbon, in my opinion. They also have other great breakfast items like avocado toast, overnight oats and gluten-free cakes.
@fusetravels This is my favorite coffee shop in Lisbon yaaas São are so many that I didn’t get to go to this time as he’s traveling with the kids and we decided to eat breakfast at the apartment for some of the days but I knew I had to come to Copenhagen, coffee Lab, because the coffee is so strong and delicious and they have amazing Danish pastries #lisbonwithkids #lisbonfood #lisboncoffee #lisbonportugal #lisbonfoodie #lisbonfoodguide #lisbonfoodies #lisbonrestaurant #lisbonrestaurants ♬ Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I'm Yours) – Stevie Wonder
Dramático
Dramático is a quaint and charming cafe in the historic Bairro Alto neighborhood known for its delicious coffee and welcoming staff. They offer a variety of specialty drinks, as well as homemade pastries and light meals. Try their famous “queijada” (traditional Portuguese pastry) and coffee “Cortado.”
Melbourne Coffee House
Melbourne Coffee House, founded by an Australian expat, brings a taste of Australia to Lisbon. They serve a variety of specialty coffee drinks, as well as breakfast and lunch items. They serve a variety of specialty coffee drinks, as well as breakfast and lunch items.
Be sure to try their “Flat White” coffee and their “Avo Toast” (avocado toast).
Rebel Cafe Lisboa
Rebel Cafe is a hip and trendy cafe popular with Lisbon’s young and stylish crowd. They have a wide selection of specialty coffee drinks, as well as vegan and vegetarian options. Try their “Latte Art” coffee as well as their vegan “Croissant” (made with almond flour).
Comoba
Comoba is a one-of-a-kind cafe that combines coffee with art and design. They serve a wide range of specialty drinks, as well as light meals and baked goods. Try their “Tumeric Latte” and “Granola Bowl” from scratch.
The aesthetics of this Lisbon cafe is so pretty! It is a must-visit for the gram and look it up on Tiktok for a taste.
In general, the coffee culture at these hip cafes in Lisbon is a refreshing departure from the norm. These are some of the best cafes in Lisbon and they are worth visiting for their specialty coffee and warm, inspiring environments.
Stay tuned for my upcoming post all about Brunch Spots in Lisbon. And here are some other Lisbon related blog post you may enjoy.
Check out one of my favorite restaurants in Lisbon, Ponto Final.
Lisbon Travel Stress Free.
