Mexico City Specialty Coffee: 7 Must-Visit Cafés You Need to Try

When people think of Mexico City, their minds often drift to rich cultural heritage, world-class cuisine, and vibrant street life—but did you know that this bustling metropolis is also home to a thriving specialty coffee scene? Nestled between historic districts and modern neighborhoods, Mexico City’s coffee culture has been quietly flourishing, blending tradition with innovation to create an unforgettable coffee experience.

From third-wave coffee pioneers to charming hole-in-the-wall cafés, this city has something for every coffee enthusiast. Whether you’re a latte art lover, a single-origin purist, or an adventurous traveler seeking unique brews, Mexico City’s specialty coffee scene will surprise and delight you.

In this guide, we’ll explore seven must-visit coffee gems, from cozy neighborhood cafés to cutting-edge specialty coffee houses. Each spot has been carefully selected for its exceptional brews, inviting atmosphere, and commitment to high-quality coffee.

Why Mexico City’s Specialty Coffee Scene Stands Out

Mexico is one of the world’s top coffee-producing countries, yet for decades, much of its best coffee was exported. In recent years, however, local roasters, baristas, and coffee lovers have transformed the industry, putting Mexico City on the map as a destination for coffee connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike. For a deeper look into Mexico’s coffee-growing regions, exports, and production methods, check out this overview of coffee production in Mexico.

• Farm-to-cup coffee culture: Many of the city’s specialty cafés source beans directly from Mexican coffee farms, showcasing the country’s diverse coffee-growing regions.
• Innovative brewing techniques: From classic espresso-based drinks to experimental cold brews and pour-overs, Mexico City’s cafés offer a mix of old-world charm and modern precision.
• Aesthetic & inviting spaces: Whether it’s a cozy hidden café in Coyoacán or a sleek third-wave coffee bar in Roma Norte, each spot brings something unique to the table.

Want to experience Mexico City’s vibrant specialty coffee scene? Watch this video for a tour of must-visit cafés and hidden gems serving some of the best coffee in the city!

What to Expect in This Guide

• The best specialty cafés in Mexico City – From historic coffee houses to modern micro-roasters.
• Where to find them – Neighborhood gems, rooftop cafés, and tucked-away espresso bars.
• What makes them special – Each café’s standout drinks, ambiance, and coffee philosophy.
• Pinterest Save Prompt: Planning a coffee adventure in Mexico City? Save this guide for later!

Next, let’s dive into Mexico City’s seven must-visit coffee gems, starting with one of its most beloved local favorites.

1. Café Avellaneda – The Cozy Local Favorite

Tucked away in the charming neighborhood of Coyoacán, Café Avellaneda may be small in size, but it has made a significant impact on Mexico City’s specialty coffee scene. Known for its commitment to high-quality Mexican coffee beans, this tiny yet inviting café is a must-visit for those who appreciate expertly crafted brews in a laid-back atmosphere.

Unlike large commercial coffee shops, Café Avellaneda operates with a strong focus on sustainability and direct relationships with farmers. The baristas here carefully source beans from various coffee-growing regions of Mexico, ensuring that every cup tells a story of craftsmanship and dedication.

What Makes It Special?

• A true neighborhood café – With its intimate setting and welcoming atmosphere, Café Avellaneda feels more like a local hangout than a commercial coffee shop.
• Sustainability at its core – The café prioritizes direct trade relationships with coffee producers, ensuring fair wages and ethical sourcing.
• Expertly crafted brews – Whether you prefer filter coffee, espresso-based drinks, or something more adventurous, the skilled baristas at Avellaneda make sure every cup is brewed to perfection.
• A rotating selection of Mexican beans – The café frequently changes its menu to highlight different coffee-growing regions, giving visitors the chance to taste the diverse flavors of Mexican coffee.

Must-Try Drink: Café de Olla with a Modern Twist

One of Café Avellaneda’s standout offerings is its unique take on Café de Olla, a traditional Mexican coffee drink made with piloncillo (unrefined cane sugar) and cinnamon.

While many places serve a classic, rustic version of Café de Olla, Avellaneda elevates it by using high-quality specialty coffee beans and carefully balancing the flavors to ensure that the spices complement rather than overpower the coffee. The result is a rich, aromatic drink that blends tradition with modern coffee craftsmanship.

Make your own Café de Olla at home with this step-by-step recipe from our coffee collection.

Vibe & Atmosphere

Despite its small size, Café Avellaneda has an undeniable charm that makes it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

• The space is cozy and unpretentious, with a few seats inside and a couple of small tables outside.
• The focus here is on quality coffee and friendly service rather than elaborate décor or Instagrammable aesthetics.
• Many customers enjoy chatting with the baristas, who are always happy to share insights about the beans, brewing methods, and flavor profiles.

If you’re looking for a place to slow down and savor a cup of coffee, this café offers an intimate experience that highlights the heart and soul of Mexico City’s specialty coffee scene.

Café Avellaneda sets the tone for Mexico City’s specialty coffee scene—small, passionate, and dedicated to the craft. But if you’re looking for a sleek, modern café that pushes the boundaries of coffee innovation, then Almanegra Café should be next on your list.

Stay tuned as we explore one of the city’s most well-respected third-wave coffee shops, where precision meets creativity in every cup.

2. Almanegra Café – The Third-Wave Coffee Haven

For coffee lovers who appreciate precision, technique, and expertly sourced beans, Almanegra Café is a must-visit in Mexico City’s specialty coffee scene. Unlike the intimate, neighborhood feel of Café Avellaneda, Almanegra offers a sleek, modern space dedicated to the art and science of coffee brewing.

Known for its third-wave coffee philosophy, this café prioritizes single-origin beans, alternative brewing methods, and a minimalist aesthetic that lets the coffee shine. With multiple locations across the city, Almanegra has built a reputation as one of the best specialty coffee spots in Mexico City, drawing in both serious coffee connoisseurs and curious newcomers alike.

What Makes It Special?

• Masters of third-wave coffee – Almanegra takes coffee brewing to another level with high-precision techniques, such as V60 pour-over, Aeropress, and siphon brewing.
• Minimalist, modern aesthetic – The café’s design is clean and sophisticated, creating a space that feels focused, calm, and dedicated to coffee appreciation.
• Rare and unique coffee offerings – Almanegra frequently features specialty beans from micro-lots, giving customers the chance to try unique, small-batch coffees not found elsewhere.
• A hub for coffee education – The baristas are not just servers—they’re coffee educators, happy to explain brewing processes, bean origins, and flavor notes to anyone who’s interested.

Must-Try Drink: Nitro Cold Brew

One of Almanegra’s signature drinks is its Nitro Cold Brew, a coffee infused with nitrogen gas to create a smooth, velvety texture.

Unlike traditional cold brew, which can sometimes feel heavy or overly bold, Nitro Cold Brew has a creamy mouthfeel and a naturally sweet taste, making it incredibly refreshing. Served from a tap, it resembles a dark stout beer, complete with a frothy head that enhances the drinking experience.

For those who love experimenting with cold brew at home, check out our Nitro Cold Brew Coffee Recipe to start making your own coffee creations.

Vibe & Atmosphere

Stepping into Almanegra Café feels like walking into a coffee laboratory—everything is precise, intentional, and designed to showcase the purity of the coffee.

• The interior features dark tones, clean lines, and a minimalist layout, keeping the focus on the coffee rather than distractions.
• The seating is limited, reinforcing the idea that this is a place for serious coffee appreciation rather than lounging for hours.
• Despite its modern aesthetic, the café remains warm and welcoming, with knowledgeable baristas eager to share their passion for coffee with customers.

Almanegra is ideal for coffee lovers who enjoy experimenting with brewing methods and exploring new flavor profiles. Whether you’re looking for a meticulously crafted pour-over or a refreshing Nitro Cold Brew, this café delivers a high-level coffee experience.

Almanegra showcases the modern side of Mexico City’s specialty coffee scene, but what about its history? For a deep dive into tradition and nostalgia, the next stop is Café El Jarocho—a legendary café that has been serving locals for decades.

Stay tuned as we step back in time to explore one of Mexico City’s most iconic coffee spots, where tradition and community come first.

3. Café El Jarocho – A Historic Coffee Institution

While many cafés in Mexico City focus on third-wave coffee and modern brewing techniques, Café El Jarocho stands apart as a legendary establishment that has been serving locals since 1953. Nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Coyoacán, this beloved café has become a cultural landmark, attracting generations of coffee lovers with its rich history and no-frills approach to coffee.

Café El Jarocho isn’t about trendy aesthetics or experimental brews—it’s about tradition, community, and consistently good coffee at an affordable price. Whether you’re a visitor looking to experience authentic Mexican café culture or a local grabbing your daily cup, this historic coffee shop offers a nostalgic experience that connects the past with the present.

What Makes It Special?

• A staple of Coyoacán since 1953 – One of the oldest and most famous coffee shops in Mexico City, serving the community for over 70 years.
• Affordable, high-quality coffee – Unlike many specialty coffee spots, Café El Jarocho remains budget-friendly while maintaining excellent flavor and consistency.
• A true neighborhood icon – From early mornings to late evenings, the café is always buzzing with customers, reflecting its deep-rooted place in the local culture.
• Simple, strong, and satisfying brews – Instead of elaborate espresso drinks or pour-overs, the focus is on classic, robust Mexican coffee that never disappoints.

Must-Try Drink: Espresso con Leche

While Café El Jarocho offers a variety of traditional coffee drinks, the Espresso con Leche (espresso with steamed milk) is a local favorite.

Unlike a cappuccino or latte, which can have a more balanced milk-to-espresso ratio, an Espresso con Leche at El Jarocho is strong and bold, letting the coffee flavor shine through. The richness of the espresso pairs perfectly with the creamy milk, creating a simple yet deeply satisfying cup of coffee.

For those interested in making an authentic Mexican-style espresso drink at home, check out this recipe for a classic Espresso con Leche.

Vibe & Atmosphere

Café El Jarocho is less about ambiance and more about tradition. Unlike many modern specialty cafés, this is not a place for lingering over a laptop or snapping aesthetic coffee photos—it’s about grabbing a delicious cup and soaking in the energy of the neighborhood.

• The café operates more like a street-side coffee stand, with customers ordering at the counter and drinking their coffee on the go.
• The atmosphere is lively and fast-paced, with long lines that move quickly, filled with locals who have been coming here for years.
• Instead of seating and table service, the experience is straightforward and efficient—order your coffee, chat with the baristas, and enjoy your drink while strolling through Coyoacán’s charming streets and plazas.

For those who want to immerse themselves in Mexico City’s coffee culture beyond the specialty coffee trend, Café El Jarocho is a must-visit destination that embodies the city’s long-standing love affair with coffee.

From tradition to innovation, our next stop is Buna, a café known for its commitment to sustainability, farm-to-cup sourcing, and bold flavor experimentation.

If you’re interested in ethically sourced coffee, eco-friendly practices, and unique coffee blends, you won’t want to miss Buna.

4. Buna – The Sustainable Coffee Innovator

For coffee lovers who appreciate ethically sourced beans and eco-conscious business practices, Buna is a standout café in Mexico City’s specialty coffee scene. Unlike traditional cafés that simply serve coffee, Buna operates with a farm-to-cup philosophy, ensuring that every step of the coffee process—from cultivation to brewing—is done with sustainability in mind.

Located in the trendy Roma Norte district, Buna has gained a reputation for its commitment to direct trade relationships with Mexican coffee farmers, innovative brewing techniques, and bold flavor experimentation. Whether you’re a sustainability advocate, a specialty coffee enthusiast, or just someone who enjoys trying unique coffee drinks, Buna offers a fresh perspective on what coffee can be.

What Makes It Special?

• A leader in sustainable coffee sourcing – Buna partners directly with small-scale farmers to ensure fair wages, environmentally friendly practices, and top-quality beans.
• Beyond coffee – a holistic approach – Buna doesn’t just focus on brewing; they actively work on reforestation projects, soil regeneration, and biodiversity conservation in coffee-growing regions.
• Experimental flavors and unique blends – From infused cold brews to fermented coffee drinks, Buna pushes boundaries and encourages customers to experience coffee in new ways.
• A minimalist yet warm ambiance – The café’s design is simple, natural, and eco-friendly, reflecting its philosophy of sustainability and mindful consumption.

Must-Try Drink: Cold Brew with Housemade Oat Milk

Buna is known for its exceptional cold brews, but one of its most beloved menu items is the Cold Brew with Housemade Oat Milk. Unlike store-bought oat milk, which can sometimes be too thin or overly processed, Buna’s version is creamy, rich, and made fresh in-house.

The combination of smooth, chocolatey cold brew and velvety oat milk creates a drink that is naturally sweet, refreshing, and incredibly satisfying. It’s perfect for those who love dairy-free options without compromising on texture or taste.

If you’re interested in making your own cold brew at home, check out our Cold Brew with Housemade Oat Milk Recipe for an easy step-by-step guide.

Vibe & Atmosphere

Walking into Buna feels like stepping into a coffee lab designed for sustainability enthusiasts and adventurous drinkers alike.

• The interior is earthy and minimalistic, featuring wooden accents, natural lighting, and a laid-back atmosphere that encourages visitors to slow down and appreciate the craft of coffee.
• The café attracts a diverse crowd, from digital nomads working on laptops to eco-conscious travelers seeking ethically sourced coffee.
• There’s a strong emphasis on education, with baristas happy to share insights about coffee farming, sustainability efforts, and the science behind brewing methods.

If you love coffee with a purpose, Buna is a café that not only delivers on flavor but also aligns with values of sustainability and ethical sourcing.

From sustainability and innovation, we shift to a café that blends specialty coffee with a love for beautifully crafted spaces and delicious brunch offerings.

Up next is Café Nin, a chic and inviting café that has become a favorite for those who love aesthetic interiors, high-quality coffee, and artisanal pastries.

5. Café Nin – The Picture-Perfect Brunch & Coffee Spot

If you love a café that combines exceptional coffee with a beautifully designed space and an irresistible pastry selection, Café Nin is the perfect stop on your Mexico City specialty coffee journey. Nestled in the quiet streets of Juárez, this charming café offers a cozy yet elegant atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing morning coffee or a slow brunch with friends.

More than just a coffee shop, Café Nin is part of the acclaimed Panadería Rosetta group, known for its artisanal baked goods and refined European-style pastries. The combination of thoughtfully brewed coffee and handcrafted pastries makes it one of the most beloved café experiences in Mexico City.

What Makes It Special?

• A stunning café setting – Café Nin’s interior features warm wooden tones, vintage furniture, and a sunlit patio that invites guests to linger.
• An artisanal approach to coffee and food – Every drink and pastry is made with carefully selected ingredients, emphasizing quality and craftsmanship.
• A peaceful escape in the heart of the city – Unlike the busier cafés in Roma Norte, Café Nin offers a calm, intimate setting that feels like a hidden retreat.
• Perfect for slow mornings and brunch lovers – The menu encourages guests to sit back, sip their coffee, and enjoy a leisurely breakfast or midday break.

Must-Try Drink: Espresso Tonic

One of Café Nin’s standout coffee creations is the Espresso Tonic, a refreshing drink that combines bold espresso with effervescent tonic water, served over ice.

The contrast of bitter, citrusy espresso with the crisp, bubbly tonic creates a complex and invigorating flavor profile, making it an ideal choice for those who want something refreshing and slightly unexpected.

If you’re curious to try making Espresso Tonic at home, check out our Espresso Tonic Recipe for an easy step-by-step guide.

Vibe & Atmosphere

Café Nin is aesthetic, cozy, and effortlessly elegant.

• The space is filled with natural light, soft neutral tones, and beautiful decor, making it an inviting place to unwind and enjoy your coffee experience.
• The café attracts a mix of coffee lovers, foodies, and creatives, drawn by its refined ambiance and high-quality offerings.
• There’s a strong emphasis on craft and detail, from the presentation of the drinks to the flaky perfection of each pastry.

Unlike grab-and-go coffee shops, Café Nin encourages a slower, more intentional approach to coffee drinking, making it a fantastic spot for a quiet morning, a work session, or a relaxed brunch date.

From leisurely brunches to a café designed for productivity and inspiration, our next stop is Blend Station—a modern, work-friendly coffee shop perfect for digital nomads, freelancers, and anyone who enjoys working with a great cup of coffee in hand.

6. Blend Station – The Work-Friendly Creative Hub

Not all coffee shops are meant for slow mornings and leisurely sips—some are built for getting things done. Blend Station is one of the best work-friendly cafés in Mexico City, catering to freelancers, remote workers, and creatives who need an inspiring space to focus, collaborate, or simply enjoy a great cup of coffee while working.

Located in Condesa, one of Mexico City’s trendiest neighborhoods, Blend Station offers strong coffee, fast Wi-Fi, and plenty of seating, making it an ideal spot for those who prefer working from cafés rather than traditional offices.

What Makes It Special?

• Designed for productivity – Unlike many coffee shops that discourage laptops, Blend Station welcomes remote workers and provides a workspace-like environment.
• Comfortable and spacious seating – Whether you need a quiet corner for deep work or a communal table for collaboration, there’s a space for everyone.
• A focus on high-quality coffee – Just because it’s a work-friendly café doesn’t mean the coffee takes a backseat—Blend Station prides itself on serving excellent specialty coffee.
• A creative, community-driven space – The café often hosts events, networking meetups, and creative workshops, making it a hub for entrepreneurs and artists.

Must-Try Drink: Flat White

When you’re working for long hours, you need a coffee that’s smooth, balanced, and satisfying—and a Flat White is the perfect choice.

With its silky microfoam and rich espresso base, a Flat White offers a stronger coffee-to-milk ratio than a latte, giving you just the right amount of boldness and creaminess to keep you energized without feeling heavy.

Want to try making one at home? Follow our Flat White Recipe for the perfect café-quality cup.

Vibe & Atmosphere

Blend Station is modern, creative, and designed for both work and relaxation.

• The interior features minimalist décor with plenty of natural light, giving the space a fresh and inviting feel.
• The café’s layout is spacious, with comfortable chairs, communal work tables, and a mix of quiet and social areas.
• The environment is lively but not overwhelming, making it ideal for deep focus or casual brainstorming sessions.

Unlike traditional co-working spaces, Blend Station doesn’t require a membership or reservation—just grab a coffee, find a seat, and get to work. Whether you’re there for an hour or an entire afternoon, the café balances the energy of a creative workspace with the comfort of a coffee shop.

For our final stop, we’re heading to Borola Café, a hidden rooftop coffee shop that offers stunning city views and some of the best specialty coffee in Mexico City.

Stay tuned as we wrap up this list with a coffee experience that’s both scenic and unforgettable.

7. Borola Café – The Hidden Rooftop Gem

For those who love a good cup of coffee with an even better view, Borola Café is one of Mexico City’s best-kept secrets. Tucked away on a rooftop, this specialty coffee shop offers breathtaking cityscapes, expertly brewed coffee, and a relaxing atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for both coffee lovers and sunset chasers.

Unlike the bustling work-friendly environment of Blend Station, Borola Café is a place to unwind, enjoy the scenery, and sip coffee while taking in the beauty of Mexico City from above. Whether you visit for a morning espresso or a golden-hour coffee break, this hidden gem provides a peaceful retreat from the city’s fast pace.

What Makes It Special?

• A hidden rooftop oasis – Located above the busy streets, Borola Café offers a tranquil setting with stunning panoramic views of the city.
• High-quality specialty coffee – The café sources beans from some of Mexico’s best coffee-growing regions, ensuring that every cup is rich and flavorful.
• A cozy yet elegant ambiance – With warm lighting, wooden accents, and comfortable seating, the space invites visitors to linger and enjoy their coffee at a leisurely pace.
• Ideal for a relaxed coffee date or solo escape – Whether you’re meeting a friend or simply seeking a quiet place to read, Borola Café provides a serene, inviting atmosphere.

Must-Try Drink: Mexican Mocha

Borola Café is known for its rich and indulgent Mexican Mocha, a drink that combines bold espresso with Mexican chocolate and a hint of spice.

Unlike a regular mocha, which is often made with sweetened cocoa powder, the Mexican Mocha features authentic Mexican chocolate, cinnamon, and a touch of chili for an added depth of flavor. The result is a drink that is creamy, spiced, and slightly sweet with just the right amount of heat.

Want to try this at home? Follow our Mexican Mocha Recipe for a step-by-step guide to making this cozy, spiced coffee treat.

Vibe & Atmosphere

Borola Café blends warmth, elegance, and a stunning view, making it one of the most picturesque coffee spots in Mexico City.

• The rooftop seating offers plenty of natural light, lush greenery, and a breathtaking skyline backdrop.
• The café’s aesthetic is minimalist yet cozy, featuring wooden furniture, soft cushions, and an inviting color palette.
• The atmosphere is calm and intimate, perfect for a solo coffee moment, a casual date, or a peaceful break from the city’s energy.

Unlike crowded coffee chains, Borola Café focuses on creating an exclusive and relaxed experience, allowing guests to fully savor both the coffee and the moment.

Final Thoughts

Mexico City’s specialty coffee scene is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself. From historic cafés with deep cultural roots to modern coffee houses leading the way in innovation and sustainability, each café offers a unique experience that showcases the richness of Mexican coffee culture.

Whether you prefer the intimate charm of Café Avellaneda, the precision of Almanegra, or the bold sustainability focus of Buna, there’s something for every coffee lover. Some spots, like Café El Jarocho, carry decades of history, while others, like Borola Café, provide a rooftop retreat where time seems to slow down with every sip.

No matter where your coffee journey takes you, one thing is certain—Mexico City’s cafés aren’t just about coffee; they’re about community, craft, and culture.

If you’ve visited any of these coffee spots, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Which café caught your attention the most? Do you have a favorite hidden gem in Mexico City that deserves a mention? Drop a comment below and share your coffee experiences.

And if you’re planning your own Mexico City coffee adventure, don’t forget to save this guide on Pinterest—so your next great cup is just a pin away.