Prague's coffee scene spans from ornate 19th-century kavarnas to cutting-edge specialty cafes. This guide highlights the establishments that best represent the city's diverse coffee culture, whether you seek historical atmosphere or the perfect flat white.
Historic Coffeehouses
Prague's historic kavarnas offer more than excellent coffee - they provide windows into the city's cultural heritage. These establishments have survived wars, political upheavals, and changing tastes to remain vital parts of urban life.
Cafe Slavia
Perhaps Prague's most legendary coffeehouse, Cafe Slavia has occupied its prime position overlooking the Vltava River and National Theatre since 1884. The elegant art deco interior houses Viktor Oliva's famous painting "Absinthe Drinker," and the cafe served as an informal headquarters for Czech dissidents during the communist era.
Today, Cafe Slavia maintains traditional kavarna standards while serving solid espresso drinks. The window tables offer incomparable views of Prague Castle across the river. Expect tourist crowds but genuine atmosphere.
Address: Smetanovo nabrezi 1012/2, Praha 1
Cafe Louvre
Open since 1902, Cafe Louvre reportedly hosted Albert Einstein during his time teaching at Prague's German University. The spacious first-floor rooms feature original period furnishings and a fascinating interactive map displaying 160 coffeehouses that once served the city.
The coffee meets traditional standards, and the cafe's billiard room and reading area preserve the kavarna spirit of lingering over newspapers and conversation. A reliable choice for experiencing genuine Prague cafe culture.
Address: Narodni 22, Praha 1
Kavarna Etiquette
In traditional Prague coffeehouses, you'll receive a glass of water with your coffee without asking. It's perfectly acceptable to spend hours reading or working at your table. Most establishments still accept cash, though cards are increasingly common.
Cafe Imperial
The stunning ceramic tile interior of Cafe Imperial makes it one of Prague's most visually impressive cafes. Built in 1914 during the twilight of the Habsburg empire, the ornate Moorish-influenced decorations have been meticulously restored.
The cafe serves both traditional preparations and modern espresso drinks. Breakfast and brunch menus are particularly popular. The atmosphere trends more restaurant than traditional kavarna, but the setting rewards a visit.
Address: Na Porici 15, Praha 1
Specialty Coffee Shops
Prague's specialty coffee scene has matured remarkably since the first third-wave cafes appeared in the mid-2000s. Today's leading establishments rival any European capital for quality sourcing, roasting, and preparation.
The Miners Coffee
Founded in March 2019 in the Vinohrady district, The Miners has rapidly expanded to multiple Prague locations. The concept combines serious specialty coffee with an accessible, community-focused atmosphere.
Their in-house roastery produces beans used across all locations, with a focus on lighter profiles that highlight origin characteristics. The Vinohrady flagship remains the best location for experiencing the full range of their offerings.
Address: Multiple locations, flagship in Vinohrady
EMA Espresso Bar
A pioneer of Prague's specialty scene, EMA Espresso Bar helped establish Vinohrady as the city's coffee district. The minimalist interior focuses attention on the coffee itself, prepared with precision by skilled baristas.
EMA sources beans from respected European roasters and occasionally features guest roasts from international partners. The pour-over menu offers an excellent way to explore single-origin coffees.
Address: Na Kozacce 6, Praha 2
Onesip Coffee
Located near the historic center, Onesip offers a quiet refuge from tourist crowds. The compact space uses beans from Round Hill Roastery (UK), with both hand-pour and batch brew options available.
The clean, understated design creates a contemplative atmosphere well-suited to appreciating carefully prepared coffee. Seasonal single-origin offerings rotate regularly.
Address: Husova 12, Praha 1
The best Prague cafes understand that coffee is both craft and culture. Whether you visit a hundred-year-old kavarna or a week-old specialty shop, you'll find people who genuinely care about your experience.
Neighborhood Gems
Beyond the famous names, each Prague neighborhood harbors beloved local cafes. These establishments often offer the most authentic experiences, serving regulars who visit daily.
Karlin District
The revitalized Karlin neighborhood has emerged as a secondary coffee hub. The former industrial area now hosts creative agencies and tech companies, supported by excellent local cafes.
Doubleshot's original cafe, Muj salek kavy (My Cup of Coffee), operates here alongside newer specialty options. The neighborhood rewards exploration on foot.
Letna and Holesovice
These adjacent districts north of the river center offer a more residential cafe experience. Local establishments serve the creative community that has settled in former industrial spaces.
Coffee and Riot in the area has developed a following for its relaxed atmosphere and consistently good espresso. The neighborhood's beer gardens also make excellent post-coffee destinations.
Practical Tips for Coffee Visitors
- Opening hours: Most specialty cafes open between 8-9 AM and close by 6-7 PM. Historic kavarnas often stay open later.
- Payment: Cards are widely accepted, though smaller establishments may prefer cash. Czech crowns (CZK) are the local currency.
- Tipping: Rounding up the bill or leaving 10% is appreciated but not mandatory.
- Language: English is widely spoken in central Prague cafes. A few Czech phrases are always appreciated.
- WiFi: Most specialty cafes offer free WiFi. Historic kavarnas may or may not.
For the latest information about visiting Prague, consult the official Prague tourism website.