Are you searching for the best cafes in Baku? Curious about the Baku coffee culture? Let’s start brewing.
The cafe culture of Baku is one of the most vibrant, unique and exciting in all of Europe. With its historic past and modern character, the city has become a mecca for those looking to enjoy a good cup of coffee or tea. From traditional Middle Eastern-style teahouses to chic, contemporary cafes, Baku Cafes have something for everyone.
Whether you’re looking for an intimate chat over espresso or a cosy spot to read a book, there’s no shortage of places to find a perfect spot in this buzzing city.
In this post, we will break down the history behind the coffee culture in Azerbaijan along with the best cafes in Baku.
Coffee Culture History in Baku
Cafes have been part of life in Baku since the 19th century when it was part of the Russian Empire. At that time, cafes served as meeting places for intellectuals and artists from across the region. Many of them were writers and poets who would come together to discuss literature and politics while sipping tea or coffee.
As the years went on, these conversations grew more sophisticated and provided an important platform for exchanging ideas throughout Europe; thus officially establishing Baku’s thriving cafe culture.
Today, Baku’s cafe culture remains strong with countless cafes dotting its streetscapes. Although they no longer serve as political centres, they still offer locals and visitors alike an inviting atmosphere in which to enjoy conversation over hot drinks and light snacks such as freshly baked pastries or sandwiches.
Today, you can experience the best of Baku’s coffee scene – from rich Turkish blends to sweet Middle Eastern pastries, and third-wave coffee in stylish cafes. Whether you crave Parisian charm or a modern ambience, Baku cafes and coffee shops won’t disappoint.
Where To Find the Best Cafes in Baku
With so many options in town, the best way to find cafes in Baku is by simply walking around town. Many are hidden away along the side streets rather than located on main roads with a high concentration around Fountains Square near Icheri Sheher (Old City) as well as Nizami Street near Sahil Metro Station.
Why are There So Many Baku Cafes?
I was personally surprised to see so many coffee shops and cafes in Baku on my visit. Seemingly every street around the old town has a cafe or coffee shop of some sort. Then I remembered visiting a Tim Hortons in Muscat.
Like Oman, Azerbaijan is a predominantly Muslim country. As such, drinking and bars are not as popular. Coffee shops and cafes fill that gap for nightlife and something to do. The result is some seriously great spots to hang out in.
The Best Coffee Shops in Baku
From posh to hip and unique, here’s my list of the best coffee shops in Baku.
CoffeeBar
I could be biased as a cat lover, but this hip spot was my favourite place to hang out while in Baku. Besides being steps from the Merchant Hotel (my pick for the best hotel in Baku), this chill coffee shop has some furry friends stopping by throughout the day. I could enjoy a flat white with this guy curled up next to me any time.
Cute cats and great coffee aside, CoffeeBar has a great vibe with cool artwork throughout.
Find the best rates at the Merchant Hotel with Booking.comThe Baku Roasting Company
Next up on this list of the best coffee shops in Baku is the Baku Roasting Company where you can find some of the best speciality coffee in Baku. Located in the heart of the city, this Baku cafe and roaster is dedicated to sourcing the highest quality green coffee beans from around the world. They roast them in small batches to bring out their unique flavours and characteristics.
The Baku Roasting Company offers a variety of single-origin and blended coffees, as well as espresso drinks, pour-overs, and cold brews. They also serve a selection of pastries and light bites to complement their coffee offerings.
In addition to its cafe, the Baku Roasting Company also sells their coffee beans online and provides wholesale services to other cafes and restaurants in the area. They are committed to sustainability and social responsibility, working directly with farmers and cooperatives to ensure fair prices and ethical practices throughout the supply chain.
Old School
Old School is a stylish speciality coffee shop in Baku known for its vintage decor, quality coffee, and relaxed atmosphere.
The Soviet-inspired decor and budget-friendly menu aim to preserve some of Azerbajans coffee culture history. The walls are adorned with vibrant art and evocative photos, while kitschy statues and large plants adorn the space. Grab a coffee, take a seat, and challenge your neighbour to a game of chess.
Cay Bagi 145
Historically, tea was the drink of choice in the region so this list of best Baku Cafes should pay homage to that.
Cay Bagi 145 is a popular tea house known for its tranquil garden that serves as an oasis in the middle of the bustling city. The terrace of Cay Bagi 145 offers stunning views of the Old City and the sea, making it an ideal location to relax and enjoy a cup of tea.
The tea house is decorated with traditional Azeri carpets and hand-painted ceramics, adding to the ambience and creating a cosy and inviting atmosphere. The signature hot black tea served at Cay Bagi 145 is served in tulip glasses, and its slightly bitter taste is complemented by a slice of sticky honey cake.
Cay Bagi 145 is a must-visit spot for tea enthusiasts who are looking to experience the unique tea culture of Azerbaijan while enjoying the scenic views and serene atmosphere of Baku.
Cafe Moffie
Coffee Moffie is another popular cafe offering up speciality coffee in Baku. The cafe is known for its high-quality coffee, friendly service, and cosy atmosphere.
At Coffee Moffie, they use only the best Arabica coffee beans sourced from around the world and roasted in-house to bring out their unique flavours. They offer a wide range of coffee drinks, including classic espresso drinks, drip coffee, pour-overs, and speciality drinks like the popular “Moffie Latte,” which is made with espresso, milk, and a touch of hazelnut syrup.
In addition to coffee, Coffee Moffie also serves a selection of pastries and light bites, including croissants, sandwiches, and salads. They have a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere, with plenty of seating both indoors and outdoors.
Malacannes 145
Located in the beautiful Molokan Garden, Malacannes 145 offers a unique experience as both a cafe and a shisha lounge. The historic building boasts traditional interiors and breathtaking architecture, making it the perfect place to spend an entire afternoon.
The samovar is always filled with hot tea, and the waitstaff is happy to bring you a shisha pipe. Their menu offers a variety of options from Azerbaijani snacks to sushi, European pastries, and freshly-made sandwiches. But don’t miss out on their irresistible desserts, which are sure to leave you craving more.
Best Turkish Coffee in Baku
There are several places in Baku that are known for serving the best Turkish coffee. Here are a couple of the top recommendations:
Zeytun Café
Located in the Old City of Baku, Zeytun Café is known for its traditional Azerbaijani and Turkish coffee. The café offers a cosy and relaxed atmosphere, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a cup of Turkish coffee.
Mado Cafe
Aside from serving great Turkish coffee, Mado Cafe’s interior is tastefully designed, featuring traditional Turkish elements such as ornate lanterns and intricate tile work. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, making it a great spot for both casual hangouts and special occasions.
One of the highlights of Mado Cafe is its Turkish-style ice cream, which is made with a special recipe and unique stretching technique that gives it a chewy texture. The ice cream is served with a side of fun and entertainment, as the staff often playfully tease and interact with customers while serving it.
Themed Baku Cafes
Those looking for something unique should check out Zizi Cafe at Mirzə Fətəli Axundov Cad 10. This colourful café is decorated with Alice In Wonderland-inspired décors such as giant mushrooms and oversized playing cards – perfect if you’re craving something different!
Alternatively, if you’re looking for something more nostalgic then check out Old Times Cafe located at Teze Pir Street 12A . Step inside this vintage-style café which serves up delicious cakes alongside retro board games like Monopoly so you can take a walk down memory lane whilst enjoying some tasty treats!
Lastly, Friends Central Perk Baku is a café inspired by the iconic coffee shop featured in the American TV series Friends. This unique Baku café recreates the cosy atmosphere and décor of the Central Perk café from the show, complete with the orange couch, stage, and guitar.
The café offers a range of coffee drinks and other beverages, as well as a variety of pastries and light bites. Fans of Friends can also purchase merchandise such as t-shirts, mugs, and other souvenirs featuring the show’s characters and quotes.
In addition to the café, Friends Central Perk Baku also hosts various events, including open mic nights, quiz nights, and live music performances, creating a lively and entertaining atmosphere for visitors. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of Friends or just looking for a fun and unique café experience, Friends Central Perk Baku is definitely worth checking out.
Wrapping Up the Best Cafes in Baku
Whether it’s grabbing a quick bite or taking time out for a leisurely chat over coffee, Baku cafes offer something different each time. From tucked-away gems serving up traditional Azerbaijani dishes to themed hangouts that transport customers back in time; there really is something here for everyone. So next time you’re visiting, head out into the heart of town and discover the best coffee shops in Baku for yourself.
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Baku has a culture that’s so steeped in coffee that it can be difficult to find the best spots to try. Thanks for sharing this piece!