5 Best Cafes in Cologne, Germany for Coffee Lovers

Discover the aromatic world of Cologne's cafe scene as we guide you through the best cafes in this charming German city. Whether you're a coffee connoisseur or simply looking for a cozy spot to relax, Cologne offers an abundance of options that cater to all tastes and preferences.

From third-wave coffee shops serving expertly crafted brews to Instagram-worthy locations with mouth-watering brunch selections, these top-rated spots will make your visit to Cologne extra special.

Top 5 Cafes To Visit In Cologne, Germany

Café Buur

Café Buur, a trendy and chic café in Cologne, Germany, has gained recognition as one of the top 5 coffee shops to visit in the city. This hotspot offers plenty of outdoor seating for those looking to enjoy their meal al fresco. [1]

As part of its unique appeal, this European café made it onto the list of top 10 kosher restaurants in Cologne.

Address: Richard-Wagner-Str. 28, 50674 Köln, Germany

Café Schmitz

Nestled in the heart of Cologne, Café Schmitz is a must-visit for travelers seeking an authentic taste of German café culture. Renowned as one of the top 5 cafes in the city, this charming establishment offers more than just excellent coffee and cakes.

One aspect setting Café Schmitz apart from its competitors is their commitment to showcasing local talent through live jazz events. [2]

Combined with cozy ambiance and outdoor seating on the corner of Hansaring and Lübecker Str., it makes for an ideal spot to people watch while sipping on your favorite brew.

Address: Hansaring 98, 50670 Köln, Germany

The Coffee Gang

Nestled among Cologne's bustling streets, The Coffee Gang is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both exceptional coffee and an inviting atmosphere.

As one of the top 5 cafes in the city, this local gem delights customers with its specialty coffees, expert baristas, and award-winning banana bread that has gained legendary status in Cologne.

Aside from their delectable breakfast pastries and heavenly baked goods that have earned them rave reviews on Tripadvisor, The Coffee Gang takes pride in supporting other local businesses through collaborations. [3]

Part cafe culture hub, part cozy oasis away from the busy world outside - this unique spot invites you to take a well-deserved break during your travels while enjoying some of the finest coffee roasting experiences Cologne has to offer.

Address: Neusser Str. 53, 50670 Köln, Germany

Salon Schmitz

A must-visit spot in Cologne's Belgian Quarter is Salon Schmitz. This traditional German coffee shop boasts an ornate interior reminiscent of Viennese architecture but without any pretentiousness. [4]

It is a casual and welcoming space that offers relaxation and leisure to its patrons. The cozy atmosphere makes it a favorite among locals, clubbers, and theater-goers alike.

Salon Schmitz features excellent coffee and cakes as well as an extensive wine list for those who prefer something stronger.

Address: Aachener Str. 28, 50674 Köln, Germany

Hommage Café

Located in the trendy Belgian quarter of Cologne, hommage Café is a must-visit spot for coffee lovers and sustainability enthusiasts. As one of the top-rated cafes in Cologne, this cozy haunt prides itself on its commitment to ethical sourcing and recycling.

The cafe's interior design is an attraction in itself - with seats made from cable drums, old sewing machines, and church pews - adding to its quirky charm. Hommage Cafe serves up crepes, banana bread, nut wedges along with warm and cold coffee and cold fruit tea.

Address: Friesenstraße 73, 50670 Köln, Germany

What Makes Each Cafe Unique

Cafe Buur's Homemade Cakes And Sandwiches

Cafe Buur in Cologne, Germany is a must-visit spot for travelers looking for delicious homemade cakes and sandwiches. Their concept is inspired by Asian all-day breakfast culture, offering dishes from around the world that are both hearty and satisfying.

Aside from their menu, Cafe Buur's old-fashioned atmosphere adds to its charm; it's like stepping into a time warp with adorable older people sipping coffee and indulging in delectable desserts.

Cafe Schmitz's Live Jazz Events And Cozy Ambiance

Cafe Schmitz in Cologne, Germany is a must-visit for those looking to experience the city's cultural vibe. The cafe's cozy atmosphere, unique decor, and live jazz events make it stand out from other cafes in the area.

Guests can relax with a Kölsch beer while enjoying some of the best jazz music in town. If you're lucky, you might even catch one of their poetry readings or tea selections.

Cafe Schmitz offers an excellent meal menu that caters to different dietary needs and preferences.

Overall, if you want to immerse yourself in local culture during your trip to Cologne, make sure Cafe Schmitz is on your list of stops!

The Coffee Gang's Specialty Coffee And Welcoming Atmosphere

The Coffee Gang is a must-visit cafe for specialty coffee lovers visiting Cologne, Germany. This hip and trendy café is known for serving high-quality coffee beans almost exclusively light-roasted on their La Marzocco machine.

But it's not just the excellent coffee that keeps customers coming back to The Coffee Gang – it's the friendly baristas and welcoming atmosphere.

Bearded hipster baristas in aprons with layers of KeepCups create a cozy and inviting space where you can relax, work or enjoy some delicious breakfast options such as fruit bowls or legendary banana bread.

Salon Schmitz's Mix Of Vintage And Modern Interiors And Extensive Wine List

Salon Schmitz is a must-visit café for travelers to Cologne, thanks to its unique mix of vintage and modern interiors and an extensive wine list. As you enter the cafe, you will be struck by its ornate decor, including chandeliers, finely polished mirrors, and vintage photos adorning the walls.

What makes Salon Schmitz stand out from other cafes in Cologne is its impressive selection of wines. The cafe offers an extensive wine list with different varieties from all around the world to satisfy even the most refined palates.

Hommage Café's Commitment To Sustainability And Ethical Sourcing

Hommage Café is a truly unique cafe in Cologne, not only for its excellent food and coffee but also for its commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing.

The café is dedicated to using fair trade, organic farming, direct trade, shade-grown coffee beans, biodegradable packaging, and eco-friendly practices that reflect their respect for the environment.

In addition to all of this important work behind the scenes, visitors can enjoy high-quality coffee served in biodegradable cups while sitting outdoors at comfortable seating arrangements.

Insider Tips For Visitors

Visit Café Schmitz during weekends to enjoy live jazz music and their cozy ambiance. Don't miss the hot chocolate at Salon Schmitz, which has a perfect blend of sweetness and creaminess.

Hommage Cafe is known for its sustainability efforts, so try their vegan-friendly options made with ethically sourced ingredients.

Best Times To Visit Each Café

To make the most of your visit to Cologne's top coffee shops, it's helpful to know when they're at their best. Cafe Buur is a popular spot for breakfast and lunch, so try visiting in the morning or early afternoon before it gets too crowded.

If you're looking for live jazz events at Cafe Schmitz, check their schedule online beforehand and plan accordingly. The Coffee Gang is open late on weekends, making it the perfect destination for an evening coffee fix.

Salon Schmitz is known for its extensive wine list, so consider stopping by in the evening to enjoy a glass with friends.

When planning your visit to these cafes in Cologne, keep in mind that they each have unique operating hours and peak times of day.

Must-try Menu Items

Every coffee shop in Cologne offers something unique and delicious to try. At Café Buur, don't miss out on their homemade cakes and sandwiches made with fresh ingredients. For an authentic German breakfast experience, head to hommage Café for their famous "Frühstücksteller" featuring local meats, cheeses, and bread.

If you're a coffee fanatic, be sure to stop by The Coffee Gang for their specialty brews made from beans sourced from all over the world. Meanwhile, Salon Schmitz is known for its extensive wine list and Mediterranean-inspired dishes like their grilled octopus salad.

Whether you're in the mood for a quick bite or want to indulge in some leisurely dining time while exploring this amazing city's streets as per suggested by local guidebooks - there are plenty of tempting options available at every corner that'll leave your taste buds wanting more.

Hidden Gems Near Each Café

Each café on our list has something special to offer, but their surroundings are also worth exploring. Take a stroll around the charming Belgian Quarter and discover the hidden gems near Café Schmitz.

The area is home to art galleries, vintage stores, and bookshops that make for a pleasant afternoon of browsing.

At Salon Schmitz, don't miss out on a visit to nearby Rathenauplatz park with its beautiful fountain and greenery - it's an excellent spot for enjoying your coffee outdoors.

For those who love architecture, one cannot miss Cafe Buur's proximity to St. Michael's Church with its stunning stained glass windows from the 1950s.

Comfortable Seating Arrangements

One of the essential elements that make a great café experience is comfortable seating arrangements. As a traveler in Cologne, you'll appreciate lounging in cozy chairs or outdoor terraces as you sip coffee or tea and savor pastries.

For instance, Cafe Sehnsucht boasts an enormous outdoor terrace with plenty of lounge seating where visitors can bask in the sun while enjoying their drinks and meals. On the other hand, Café Schmitz offers comfy indoor chairs and tables arranged close enough to promote conversation but not too close to intrude on privacy.

Additional Recommendations For Your Visit To Cologne

Best Restaurants In Cologne

For foodies visiting Cologne, Germany, there is no shortage of amazing restaurants to try. Whether you're looking for traditional German cuisine or international flavors, the city offers a wide variety of options to satisfy any craving.

From fine dining establishments like Le Moissonnier to casual favorites like Bei Oma Kleinmann, there's something for everyone. For those on a budget, street food and local markets offer affordable and delicious options.

Additionally, many restaurants in Cologne offer outdoor seating with stunning views of the city's historic landmarks such as Cologne Cathedral.

Best Lunch And Breakfast Spots

If you're looking for the best lunch and breakfast spots in Cologne, there are plenty of options to choose from. One of the top-rated places is Café Buur, which offers not only delicious coffee but also homemade cakes and sandwiches that are perfect for a midday break.

For budget-friendly eats, head over to Cafe Sehnsucht where their breakfast menu includes everything from classic croissants to hearty porridge bowls at reasonable prices.

If you're searching for trendy coffee shops in Cologne city center, The Coffee Gang is the place to be.

In short, whether you're craving a light bite or something more substantial, these best brunch and lunch spots in Cologne offer diverse options that cater to every taste bud preference imaginable.

Instagrammable Cafes In Cologne

For those seeking the perfect photogenic spot to showcase their trip to Cologne, look no further than the Instagrammable cafes dotted throughout the city.

One must-visit coffee shop is Café Buur, with its charming decor and homemade treats that are as beautiful as they are delicious. Another great option is hommage Café, which not only sources sustainable ingredients but also features stunning handmade ceramics that add an artistic touch to any photo.

Conclusion: Best Coffee Shops in Cologne

In conclusion, Cologne is a city that offers a wide variety of coffee shops and cafes to suit all tastes. Whether you are in the mood for a cozy ambiance, live jazz events or some specialty third wave coffee, Cologne has it all.

Don't miss out on visiting our top five recommended coffee shops: Café Buur, Café Schmitz, The Coffee Gang, Salon Schmitz and hommage Café. Each café has something unique to offer from homemade cakes and sandwiches to ethical sourcing practices.

When in Cologne's Old Town area don't forget to sample some hearty German fare while enjoying the interesting sights around you.

Key Takeaways

• Cologne offers a diverse range of cafes catering to all tastes and preferences, from vintage-inspired decor to contemporary designs.
• Top cafes in Cologne include Café Buur for homemade cakes and sandwiches, Café Schmitz for live jazz events, The Coffee Gang for specialty coffee and a welcoming atmosphere, Salon Schmitz for its mix of vintage and modern interiors and extensive wine list, and hommage Café for its commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing.
• Insider tips include checking the schedule beforehand if you want to enjoy live music at Cafe Schmitz or visiting hommage Cafe if you're looking for vegan-friendly options made with ethically sourced ingredients. Don't miss out on exploring the hidden gems near each cafe such as art galleries in the Belgian Quarter or Rathenauplatz park near Salon Schmitz.