History
The Rich History of Coffee in Prague
Discover how coffeehouses became the intellectual heart of Prague, from the late 19th century salons to the cultural resistance of the communist era.
Discover Prague's Vibrant Coffee Culture
From historic kavarnas to modern specialty roasters
Prague has quietly become one of Europe's most exciting coffee destinations. Beyond the famous beer halls lies a thriving scene of artisan roasters, cozy neighborhood cafes, and legendary coffeehouses where history meets modern craft.
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Featured Articles
Dive deep into Prague's coffee scene
Guide
Best Coffee Shops in Prague
A curated guide to the finest cafes in Prague, from legendary historic venues to hidden neighborhood gems beloved by locals.
Roasters
Prague's Specialty Coffee Roasters
Meet the artisan roasters transforming Prague into a specialty coffee hub, with profiles of the most innovative local roasteries.
150+
Specialty Cafes
25+
Local Roasters
130
Years of Tradition
10
Districts Covered
Why Prague for Coffee?
A rising star in European coffee culture
Prague's coffee scene has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past decade. What was once dominated by traditional Turkish-style preparations has evolved into a sophisticated specialty coffee culture that rivals Vienna and Berlin.
The Czech capital offers a unique blend of old-world charm and new-wave coffee innovation. Historic kavarnas with ornate interiors sit alongside minimalist third-wave cafes, each offering their own interpretation of the perfect cup.
Local Tip
Czech roasters typically favor lighter roasts that highlight origin characteristics. If you prefer milk-based drinks, ask for beans with a "stronger roasting profile" to balance the acidity.
Explore Prague's Coffee Districts
Each neighborhood has its own coffee character
Old Town (Praha 1)
Home to legendary historic cafes like Cafe Slavia and Cafe Louvre, where Czech intellectuals and artists have gathered for over a century.
Vinohrady (Praha 2)
The trendy residential district packed with specialty cafes, third-wave roasters, and cozy neighborhood spots beloved by locals.
Karlin (Praha 8)
A revitalized industrial district now home to innovative coffee concepts, craft roasteries, and creative co-working spaces.
Prague's coffeehouses are more than places to drink coffee. They are living rooms for the city, where ideas are born and friendships are forged over cups that connect us to centuries of tradition.
Understanding Czech Coffee
A unique approach to roasting and brewing
Czech specialty coffee has developed its own distinctive character. Local roasters tend to favor lighter roasts that preserve the original flavors of single-origin beans, resulting in fruity, complex cups that may surprise visitors accustomed to darker Italian-style roasts.
This preference for light roasting reflects the Czech emphasis on quality sourcing and direct trade relationships. Many Prague roasters maintain long-term partnerships with farmers in Ethiopia, Colombia, and other coffee-growing regions.
Whether you prefer a classic espresso or an elaborate pour-over, Prague's cafes offer the expertise and equipment to prepare coffee exactly to your taste.