Lima's Coffee Scene
Lima, the bustling capital of Peru, is celebrated for its rich history, mouthwatering cuisine, and lively arts scene. But did you know that Lima is also a haven for coffee connoisseurs? The city's flourishing coffee culture is centered around two vibrant neighborhoods: Miraflores and Barranco. Both areas are popular for their trendy cafes, picturesque streets, and welcoming atmosphere, making them perfect places to stay or visit during your trip. As you explore Lima in search of the perfect cup, you'll be captivated by the unique ambiance and exceptional coffee shops that these neighborhoods have to offer. Here are our must-visit coffee shops in Miraflores and Barranco, guaranteed to delight your taste buds and spark your wanderlust.
Ciclos Cafe (Miraflores): A cozy café that offers an immersive coffee experience. Their dedication to quality is evident through their carefully designed water (!) , in-house roasted beans, and close relationships with coffee producers. Born from a chocolate company and with a certified coffee taster at the helm, Ciclos offers not only delicious coffee but also an opportunity to learn about its unique origins and fermentation processes.
Neira Café Lab (Miraflores): Welcoming visitors with vibrant orange walls and the irresistible aroma of freshly roasted coffee; this trendy spot embodies the passion and determination of its founder, Harry Neira, who has overcome numerous challenges to build a successful coffee empire in Lima.
Colonia & Co (Barranco): A cozy, bohemian retreat, perfect for enjoying lively conversations, exceptional coffee, and wholesome food. The spacious coffee bar area, intimate art gallery, and distinct dining spaces adorned with plants, artwork, and vintage decor create a unique ambiance that resonates with both locals and tourists. Owner Jackie Becker's multifaceted talents and dedication to quality have cemented Colonia & Co as a beloved comfort zone for many. With its rotating selection of locally sourced and roasted coffee from Curva Tostaduria, this charming spot offers a true taste of Peru's coffee culture.
El Pan de la Chola (Miraflores): Lima's charming artisan bakery, captures the essence of simplicity with its naturally fermented breads and local ingredients. Swing by any of their cozy locations to savor delightful dishes, unique Peruvian coffee, and a warm atmosphere that radiates their passion for the art of bread-making.
Puku Puku Café (Multiple locations, including Miraflores and Barranco): Named after the Quechua word for "bird," Puku Puku serves exceptional coffee in a rustic yet stylish environment. Each coffee originates from local micro-producers in Jaén, Cerro de Pasco, and Cusco, showcasing the unique flavors and aromas of chocolate, berries, and caramel. With an extensive drink menu including favorites like the Vietnamita and Chocodark, Puku Puku is committed to elevating Peruvian coffee culture and introducing locals and tourists alike to a more expressive coffee experience. Visit their San Isidro location for a dedicated coffee lab, where you can explore various brewing methods and enjoy the perfect cup, hot or cold.
Bodega Verde (Barranco): This casual café is a hidden gem, tucked away in a lush, green garden setting. Founded by a group of friends who wanted to create a comfortable space to enjoy a cup of coffee or read a book, this charming spot is known for its tranquil atmosphere amidst the bustling city. With an open garden, La Bodega Verde offers a serene setting where you can hear birds and savor a variety of drinks, healthy meals, and vegetarian options. The café also showcases local art, adding a touch of culture to your visit.
Café A Bistro (Miraflores): We often want to unplug when traveling, yet staying connected is essential, and the charm of Café A Bistro makes this easy. Its European-inspired decor is a peaceful backdrop for planning your day over specialty coffee and a diverse breakfast menu, including vegan and gluten-free options. This Miraflores gem strikes a balance between quaint and modern, making it an unforgettable experience for any traveler.
Coleccionista Coffee (Barranco): Founders Eduardo Loli and Gonzalo Rosselló have created a hub where coffee meets art and culture. Not only is their mission to serve excellent coffee and promote Peruvian coffee brands, but also to provide a platform for local artists. Their vibrant, art-filled café in the heart of Barranco is the perfect spot for savoring specialty brews and appreciating art. Their initiatives to grow Peruvian coffee consumption and create a fairer industry for local coffee growers also make every cup here a little more special.
Caleta Dolsa Coffee (Barranco): This cozy café is the ideal spot for a relaxed afternoon, whether you're flipping through a book or catching up on work with a piece of scrumptious cake and a perfectly brewed coffee in hand. With a menu that marries Mediterranean and Peruvian flavors, and a strong commitment to ethical coffee sourcing, every sip and bite here is a journey of taste.
Alanya Repostería (Barranco): Named the best café in Lima in 2022, Alanya Repostería is more than just a bakery. From the aroma of freshly baked pastries to the selection of artisanal bread, every detail is designed to draw you into its warm, rustic ambiance. Owner Zara Alanya Góngora is committed to offering diverse and unique options, and the café's rotating selection of seasonal offerings ensures there's always something new to try. So whether it's a sweet treat or a well-crafted cup of coffee from Cusco you're after, Alanya Repostería is an essential stop on your Lima itinerary.
La Cafetera (Miraflores): Situated on the bohemian Manuel Bonilla Street in Miraflores, known for its vibrant nightlife and bar scene, La Cafetera is a café bar that beautifully combines the world of specialty coffee and innovative cocktails. Founded by Rupert Larrabure with the intent of introducing coffee to the realm of signature cocktails, La Cafetera brings a playful twist to your traditional coffee experience. From serving coffee in Instagram-worthy cocktail presentations to crafting cocktails with coffee extraction methods like the Japanese Siphon and Aeropress, this café is a coffee lover's paradise. Try their standout drinks like the Tokyo Mist, a gin cocktail infused with lemongrass and butterfly pea tea, or the Affogato 126, a unique blend of whisky, amaretto, and double espresso.
Lima's flourishing coffee scene is a testament to the city's passion for exceptional brews and inviting atmospheres. With an ever-growing list of unique coffee shops and cafés, there is always a new place to discover and a new flavor to savor. So next time you find yourself in Lima, make sure to explore its vibrant coffee culture, and be prepared to fall in love with the city's enchanting charm.