Lisbon’s coffee revolution: Where to find the best brews in the city

Lisbon has always had a strong coffee culture. For decades, locals have gathered in traditional cafés, sipping on small but strong bicas (the Portuguese equivalent of espresso) and catching up on daily life. But in recent years, the city has seen a surge in specialty coffee shops, offering high-quality beans, alternative brewing methods, and a more modern café experience. 

For coffee lovers visiting Lisbon, finding a great cup isn’t difficult—but if you’re looking for the best, here are a few spots that stand out. 

Fábrica Coffee Roasters: The game changer 

One of the first specialty coffee shops in Lisbon, Fábrica Coffee Roasters set the standard for artisanal coffee in the city. With carefully sourced beans, in-house roasting, and expert baristas, this café serves everything from smooth flat whites to perfectly brewed pour-overs. The rustic, industrial-style interior makes it a cozy spot to enjoy a slow morning. 

📍 Multiple locations, including R. das Portas de Santo Antão, 136 

Copenhagen Coffee Lab: Scandinavian simplicity meets Portuguese flavor 

Bringing Nordic coffee culture to Lisbon, Copenhagen Coffee Lab is a favorite among both locals and expats. Known for its light-roasted beans and minimalist design, this café serves exceptional filter coffee and espresso-based drinks. If you prefer a less intense roast than the traditional Portuguese style, this is the place to go. 

📍 Multiple locations, including R. Nova da Piedade, 10 

The Mill: Aussie vibes with a Portuguese twist 

This Australian-Portuguese café has gained a strong reputation for both its coffee and its brunch menu. The Mill serves expertly crafted espresso drinks alongside top-quality filter coffee. The lively atmosphere and friendly staff make it a great spot to start the day. 

📍 Rua do Poço dos Negros, 1 

Hello, Kristof: The Instagram-worthy café 

For those who love coffee and aesthetics, Hello, Kristof is the place to be. This small but stylish café specializes in high-quality espresso and batch brew coffee, made with beans from top European roasters. The relaxed vibe and carefully curated selection of magazines make it a great spot to unwind. 

📍 Rua do Poço dos Negros, 103 

A Brasileira: A taste of tradition 

No coffee tour of Lisbon would be complete without mentioning A Brasileira, one of the city’s most famous historic cafés. Opened in 1905, this legendary spot has served countless artists, writers, and intellectuals over the years. While it may be more of a tourist attraction today, the rich history and lively atmosphere make it worth a visit. 

📍 Rua Garrett, 120-122 (Chiado) 

The verdict? Lisbon is a coffee lover’s paradise 

Whether you’re a die-hard espresso drinker or a fan of slow-brewed specialty coffee, Lisbon has something to offer. Traditional cafés remain an essential part of the city’s charm, but the specialty coffee scene is thriving, bringing new flavors and experiences to the table. 

Sources: 

• Fábrica Coffee Roasters. Fábrica Coffee Roasters. 2025, www.fabricacoffeeroasters.com. Accessed 25 Feb. 2025. 

• Copenhagen Coffee Lab. Copenhagen Coffee Lab & Bakery. 2025, www.copenhagencoffeelab.com. Accessed 25 Feb. 2025. 

• The Mill. The Mill - Coffee & Brunch. 2025, www.themill.pt. Accessed 25 Feb. 2025. 

• Hello, Kristof. Hello, Kristof Instagram Page. 2025, www.instagram.com/hellokristof. Accessed 25 Feb. 2025. 

• A Brasileira. A Brasileira do Chiado. 2025, www.abrasileira.pt. Accessed 25 Feb. 2025. 

• Marques, João. “Lisbon’s Coffee Scene: From Tradition to Specialty Brews.” Time Out Lisbon, 2024, www.timeout.com/lisbon. Accessed 25 Feb. 2025. 

• Silva, Catarina. “A Guide to the Best Coffee Shops in Lisbon.” Lisbon Insider, 2024, www.lisboninsider.com. Accessed 25 Feb. 2025.