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With many of their countries topping the list of greatest coffee consumers in the world, Europeans know how to brew a great cup of joe. They also have a knack for creating beautiful and fun coffee shops to serve up their delicious beverages. Even though you will surely find outstanding cafés across the continent, here are our top ten picks for must-try European roasts:
1. Koppi – Helsingborg, Sweden
Founded by winners of the Swedish Barista Championship, this café is hands-on with each of its roasts. Visiting the growers of their beans and taking great care in selecting delicious varieties, they source products from countries around the world. Koppi prides itself in infusing love into each cup served. You will definitely want to try more than one of their varieties!
2. Wendelboe’s - Oslo, Norway
The goal of Wendelboe’s is to be among the best coffee roasters and espresso bars in the world, and they are. Owner Tim Wendelboe is the 2004 World Barista Champion and the 2005 World Cup Tasting Champion. They offer a small selection that changes continuously. Rather than blending coffees, they prefer to purchase small lots of fresh, rich beans to showcase different flavors from around the world. You will enjoy every cup.
3. Union Brew Lab – Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Union Brew Lab focuses on brewing techniques that extract the best flavor from the bean. They serve filtered coffee, as they feel it is the best way to experience the taste and aroma of each coffee. They also serve a meticulously-brewed espresso that will not disappoint. The Ethiopian pour-over is a great choice if you’re looking for something tasty and interesting.
4. Nomad – Barcelona, Spain
In addition to their cafe location, you just might spot the Nomad coffee truck serving cups around Barcelona. They’re serious about serving tasty beverages and spreading the coffee culture worldwide. That’s why they also offer courses for aficionados looking to master filtered coffee or espresso - or anyone interested in gaining knowledge about specialty roasts. Try a delicious bottle of their cold brew when you stop by for a visit.
5. Five Elephant – Berlin, Germany
This café is a must-visit while you’re in Germany. Priding themselves in sourcing coffees that are both socially and environmentally responsible, Five Elephant is open about sharing the origin story of your cup of joe and the process taken to roast it to perfection. The coffee is as tasty as the owners are genuine. You can’t go wrong with any of their espressos. Be sure to grab a slice of their heavenly cheesecake or banana bread while you’re there.
6. Belleville Brulerie – Paris, France
Who wouldn’t want to sip on a cup of coffee in an enchanting Parisian café? This shop is known for their specialty roast and friendly staff. Like most Parisians, they lovingly refer to their coffee as “sock juice.” While offering a variety of delicious blends to satisfy any palate, we recommend trying a cup of the Chateau Belleville blend. This signature coffee gives a nod to French wine and tastes like red wine in your morning mug.
7. TAF – Athens, Greece
With its rave reviews, TAF is setting a standard for coffee in Greece. This shop is known for having the best espresso in town. It makes sense because their baristas are all world coffee champions. Order a cup of the Rosebud Blend, and taste the delicious cherry, caramel, apple, tangerine and almond notes.
8. Ditta Artigianale – Florence, Italy
Located in one of the world’s most beautiful cities, this coffee does not disappoint. There are many varieties to choose from, but go for a cup of the house blend; the blonde coffee with a citrus taste is a favorite. The cafe, itself, boasts a sleek and friendly design, with a spiral staircase leading to a second-floor restaurant overlooking the coffee bar. The restaurant is as well-liked as the café.
9. Tamp and Pull – Budapest, Hungary
This café has been featured in "Hungarian Cuisine" magazine and "European Coffee Trip." Not surprisingly, Tamp and Pull is known for its espressos - especially the Flat White. Ask for the Ancient Ethiopian Blend; it has delicious notes of strawberries and melons. The atmosphere here is also as great as the coffee. You’ll enjoy taking your time sipping your cup.
10. EMA Espresso Bar – Prague, Czech Republic
EMA’s sweet-tasting espresso is a hit with locals and tourists alike. Many say it is the best coffee in Prague. EMA also serves sandwiches and sweets. The staff is fun and friendly in this always-busy cafe. Ask to try the Batch Brew, and you won’t be disappointed.
