The best cafes in Accra

On the same complex as Coco Lounge and Urban Grill, and from the same team, this excellent Vida e caffè is already very popular. Why? First of all they brew a very fine coffee (although the caffe gelado may be better in this heat), the staff are knowledgeable and friendly, and there’s a delightful array of sandwiches, pastries, muffins and Portuguese rolls. Yet the real appeal is the fantastic energy to the place. Accra take note. The pleasing décor has long benches, often of people tapping away on macs (guidebook editors among them) and an outdoor seating area. It wouldn’t be out of place on Shoreditch High Street, and the good news is that more will be opening soon.    Other locations Junction Mall: Nungua Junction (0242 100 908); Spintex Road, Finatrade building (0242 100 909); Accra City Centre, Independence Ave, AFC building (0242 100 907) ; Labone, Josiah Tongogara street (024100907).

This bakery is a serious operation. All the equipment and grain is imported from France (as is the pastry chef), and all the bread and patisserie is freshly baked each day. The croissants are a highlight, obviously, but the cakes are fabulous too. The breads on offer include classic French baguettes, as well as brioche, walnut and raisin bread and whatever else takes the chef’s fancy. You’ll also find quiches and pizzas. Over in the deli, the city’s most impressive selection of cheeses and cold cuts can be bought by the gram – or layered in one of the aforementioned baguettes for a sandwich. Outside, meanwhile, there’s a relaxing seating area in the gardens, overlooking the colonial house and the pool – just the spot to eat your purchase and relax a little.

Iced cupcakes, golden pastries, crunchy baguettes and bulging paninis are the staple at this very European of cafés. From the humble sausage roll to a light and salty spinach and ricotta puff pastry, find a bevy of bakery favourites chalked up on giant blackboards behind the serving counter. DeliFrance’s piled-high trays of treats can certainly lay claim to being the real deal – they’ve all been prepared and frozen in France and shipped over for baking in Accra. Baguette fillings include into the likes of a bresaola, parmesan and olive oil baguette in this air-con-fresh pocket of calm.

This café serves light lunches and brunches. Its sandwiches are popular, especially the calorific chicken, cheese, bacon and avocado version. Apart from these, the huge menu also contains rice and chicken dishes, lots of salads, some burgers and a breakfast menu. The salads make it a favoured spot for those who prefer a healthy approach to their lunch.

Café Kwae is an all day café/restaurant founded by Yvette Nana Ama Ansah and inspired by her love of good, simple food and her passion for travel. The aim is to create a casual space where you can grab a cup of freshly ground coffee or cold-pressed juice before work, sample a menu of fresh, simply made lunch fare, or meet up with friends and family over a long, drawn out evening meal (with loads of wine!). Oh! Be sure to indulge in the selection of tasty home-made desserts when you come in. 

Ci Gusta, an international franchise bringing a wide array of gelato, frozen yogurt, waffles and many other desserts. This cafe, located conviniently in Airport, provides a perfect place to relax during rush our. Have a late meeting or catch up with friends over a scoop of incredible almond gellato or try their lava cake. Not one for sweet, their savory menu is pretty tasty too! If you're looking for somewhere to take the children, Ci Gusta hosts many afternoon events specifically for them. A must visit in Accra!