The World’s Best Coffee Shops

Coffee is one of those beverages that just brings people together. It can be an opportunity to connect with an old friend or even with a stranger. Let’s be honest, a good cup of Joe can make anywhere feel like home! Coupled with great ambiance and kind baristas, the experience of getting coffee abroad can be the highlight of a trip. Let’s explore some of the world’s best coffee shops, if ever you’re feeling a little homesick and need a good pick me up!

Caffè Florian, Venice, Italy

Born in 1720, Caffè Florian is the oldest coffeehouse in the world! Not only that, it is the only coffeehouse that looks the same as it did in its first year in business. This is a true Italian café — sitting right on Saint Mark’s square, listening to beautiful music and observing the history around you, you are immersed in the magic of Venice. The grandiosity of the moment is worthwhile next time you are visiting Italy!

The Note Coffee, Hanoi, Vietnam

This is a coffee shop that prides itself on having a positive experience. The Note Coffee is a place where friends, strangers and relatives all leave sticky notes on the walls with positive messages and thoughts. If ever you’re in need of a pick me up (both caffeine- and emotion-wise), this is the place to visit! The staff are lovely and you’ll feel such a sense of connection with people from all over the world. Try their egg or coconut coffee, it won’t disappoint!

Pike Place Market Starbucks, Seattle, USA

While this may not be the most *artisanal* brew, the original Starbucks location in Seattle is an iconic spot. Established in 1912, this coffee shop has kept most of the original design touches intact. It feels like a step back in time seeing the original Starbucks logo, the glass panelling and the colour scheme. Of course, there will be a lineup around the block, but for a die-hard Starbucks fan, it’s definitely worth the wait!

Café Tortoni, Buenos Aires, Argentina

Established in 1858, Café Tortoni is the oldest coffee shop in Argentina. It is a French-style cafe that continues to draw in locals and tourists to this day. In the late 1800s, this was a hotspot for musicians, politicians and artists to gather and chat! Their specialty is hot chocolate (hot milk served in a large pot, with various chocolate bars on the side to make your own mix) and churros. This is an authentic piece of Argentinian history!

Bob Coffee Lab, Bucharest, Romania

At Bob Coffee Lab, coffee is more than just a beverage — It is art and science. Paul and Alex, the owners, explain that “the way coffee is roasted influences all the experience in the cup: colour, aroma, fragrance.” The practice of roasting coffee is sacred to them and this has been translated in their hit spot in downtown Bucharest. Attracting locals and tourists alike, a cup of coffee from Bob Coffee Lab is truly unique!

Café du Monde, New Orleans, USA

Coming to life in 1862, Café du Monde is an open-air French market coffee stand. This shop has visitors from all over the world, all coming for the same thing — the café au lait and beignets. Their café au lait is special as it consists of dark roast coffee with chicory, which adds an almost chocolate flavour to the beverage. Since its opening in 1862, nine other locations have opened across the state of Louisiana. Café du Monde remains a New Orleans tradition and a must-see for coffee lovers!