12 Must-Visit Specialty Coffee Shops in Buenos Aires

Tucked inside the former garage of a visionary architect in Núñez, Ӧss Kaffe feels like a hidden gem in the specialty coffee scene. The inviting aroma of freshly brewed coffee greets you as you step into its cozy, vibrant space. Here, in a neighborhood setting, coffee is best enjoyed outdoors. With two additional locations in Spain, this café has taken its charm abroad.

Ӧss Kaffe also shines with its culinary creations: from the refreshing frappu (coffee, milk, and sugarcane syrup), the cubanito filled with dulce de leche, to the irresistible marquise with salted peanuts and caramel. Another highlight is the affogato, an unforgettable experience.

In short, Ӧss Kaffe is a little oasis of flavor and warmth, where a humble garage was transformed into an epicenter of specialty coffee.

Where: Franklin D. Roosevelt 1894, Belgrano; José Andrés Pacheco de Melo 1860, Recoleta; Av. Lincoln 4247, Villa Devoto.

A modern classic in the Buenos Aires specialty coffee scene. Each Shelter location has its own vibe, but the crown jewel is the Belgrano branch: warm, bright, and with a British feel that invites you to linger. Expect perfect espresso, precise pour-overs, and iced options for summer. To pair with your drink? Scones, pound cakes, and homemade cakes that are a perfect match for every cup.

Where: Virrey Loreto 2035, Belgrano; Uriburu 353, Balvanera; Av. Del Libertador 13131, Martínez; Arroyo 940, Recoleta.

Hobby Café blends a modern aesthetic with a laid-back vibe. It’s a go-to for brunch, catch-ups, or even remote work. With thoughtful design, great lighting, and a warm atmosphere, it’s welcoming at any time of day.

Expect well-crafted espressos, pour-overs, tasty brunch dishes, pastries like pound cakes and croissants, and refreshing cold drinks for warmer days.

Where: Malabia 1343, Palermo; Guevara 91, Chacarita.

The perfect spot to meet up with friends, with a relaxed, slightly rock-inspired atmosphere and a cool edge that makes it unique. The coffee is, of course, top-notch, with hot and cold options, pour-overs, and cold brew — smoother and less acidic, steeped in cold water for hours. Non-coffee options include hits like watermelon lemonade.

La Kitchen also stands out for its baked goods: decadent cakes, laminated pastries, and savory bites.

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Pro tip: Try the carrot cake overflowing with frosting, the cinnamon roll, and the classic fosforito (ham and smoked cheese pastry).

Where: Roseti 1360, Chacarita.

One of the latest openings and already a must for coffee lovers. Located inside the Ricardo Guiraldes Library in Recoleta, it’s the perfect escape from city chaos.

Inspired by architect Clorindo Testa, the café features indoor seating and a pastel-toned courtyard that radiates calm. It’s spacious, making it great for groups, whether for breakfast, lunch, or afternoon tea.

The highlight is, of course, the coffee — both espresso-based and pour-over. Don’t miss their raspberry pepas (jam-filled cookies) and carrot cake cookie.

Where: Talcahuano 1261, Recoleta; La Pampa 2215 ,Belgrano.

With three locations, Blanca offers a captivating experience at each. This list highlights Blanca Studio, a more intimate and less commercial take on coffee in Colegiales. Here, coffee-making feels like a ritual, enhanced by vinyl records playing in the background. Seating only about 8 people, the focus is on personalized service, even recommending the best bean for your drink.

Expect espressos, pour-overs, and unique options like coffee-infused vermouth. The cardamom roll is a standout treat.

Pro tip: For a longer stay, head to Blanca Deco Café, where you’ll find matcha, lemonades, and a wider pastry selection.

Where: Av. Álvarez Thomas 758, Colegiales.

A pioneer in Buenos Aires specialty coffee, now with four branches across the city, each with its own personality. Some evoke New York’s rock vibe, while others feel Scandinavian and relaxed.

The real magic, however, is in the coffee: from espresso classics to pour-over methods, quality is guaranteed. Food complements include croissants, almond alfajores, and cinnamon rolls.

At the Jorge Newbery branch, you can see their roaster in action, showcasing their commitment to excellence.

Pro tip: At the Juramento branch, don’t miss their homemade ice cream — especially in affogato form.

Where: Juramento 1284, Belgrano; Guevara 393, Chacarita; Costa Rica 5801, El Salvador 4580, Palermo.

A minimalist spot in Colegiales run by specialty coffee expert Agustina Román. Beans are roasted on-site and brewed with precision for an exceptional cup.

The food menu is small but perfectly complements the coffee. Don’t miss their signature tiramisú, made fresh with a shot of espresso — somewhere between affogato and tiramisú.

Pro tip: In the mornings, sunlight pours in, making it ideal to sip coffee at the bar while chatting with the baristas.

Where: Teodoro García 2806, Colegiales.

A reliable favorite: cozy, charming, and with coffee and food that never disappoint. It started on a quiet Núñez corner and grew into four locations.

Specializing in laminated pastries and breads, their counters are always loaded with irresistible baked goods. Cookies are a must.

The original spot is quaint, but for comfort, head to Cuadra Restaurant in Colegiales, offering heartier lunch options like smoked eggplant or sautéed cauliflower.

Pro tip: Cuadra is perfect for remote work — order lunch and try their cold brew with lemon syrup.

Where: O’Higgins 3202, Nuñez; Dardo Rocha 1074, San Isidro; Cuadra Restaurant: Concepción Arenal 2629, Colegiales.

One of the trailblazers of specialty coffee in Buenos Aires, and still a benchmark. With their own roasted beans and precise preparation, Lab delivers coffee that balances acidity, body, and sweetness.

Food is secondary here — coffee is the star. They also produce their own chocolate and offer coffee courses for enthusiasts. Seating is limited to one bar, letting you watch each cup being made with care.

Pro tip: Try their coffee kombucha — a probiotic delight for adventurous palates.

Where: Humboldt 1542, Palermo.

What started as a small neighborhood café is now a must-visit pastry and coffee destination. Recently moved to a larger space in Palermo, Malcriada combines comfort and charm.

Their sweet offerings are standouts: cheesecakes, giant alfajores, and oversized cookies. Favorites include the dulce de leche cheesecake and the lemon-white chocolate-pistachio alfajor. For savory options, try sandwiches on challah bread or ham-and-cheese croissants.

The coffee is consistently perfect, striking an ideal balance of intensity and smoothness. They also serve teas and cold-pressed juices.

Pro tip: Expect lines — go early in the day or close to closing time to avoid the wait.

Where: Dr. Emilio Ravignani 1338, Palermo.

Located in San Telmo, just a few blocks from Parque Lezama, Bulevar sits on charming Caseros Street, known for its food scene and historic flair. Minimalist and cozy, with a small terrace, it’s especially lovely on sunny afternoons.

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The coffee menu is both classic and inventive, with creative options like coffee tonic with orange juice or cold brew with pepper and lemon syrup. Non-coffee drinks include peach lemonade and even vermouth-based cocktails.

On the food side, there are cakes, laminated pastries, cookies, alfajores, and savory choices like pressed ham-and-cheese sandwiches or avocado toast.

Pro tip: Visit with friends to try more of their creations. Don’t miss the galette — a crisp French pastry filled with seasonal fruit.

Where: Av. Caseros 438, San Telmo; Monteagudo 209, Parque Patricios.