We’re sure it comes as no surprise, but Team Appear Here has an obsession with all things coffee. From the brilliant brews and the aesthetically pleasing spaces that serve them, we love discovering new places to get our caffeine fix.
So, to celebrate #InternationalCoffeeDay today, we’re sharing our favourite independent and caffeinated spaces in the local neighbourhoods worldwide. The only question now is: flat white or cortado?
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Hello, Kristof – Barrio Alto, Lisbon
Freelance graphic designer-turned-entrepreneur, Ricardo Galésio, opened Hello, Kristof back in 2016. It takes its design cues from New York and Scandinavia, which makes this spot a design-lovers destination: it has a carefully curated industrial-but-cosy aesthetic. Expect perfectly poured brews, and creatives typing away, and to be surrounded by an interesting selection of independent publications and magazines.
Azahar Café 93 – Parque 93, Bogotá
Described by one Appear Here team member as ‘the best coffee shop in the world,’ Azahar is a must-visit when in this part of the city. Expect some of the best brews in Bogotá, and to feel like part of a community of digital nomads and locals alike. The plant-filled, glassed-in interior and its very own small-plot beans, further illustrate the warm, welcoming vibes.
Walden Woods – Gion, Kyoto
Walden Woods is a coffee shop slash art space. The minimalist white-cube store takes its caffeine seriously, and also sells bits and bobs such as tea, unsurprisingly, as well as homeware goods too.
Sweet Leaf Coffee – Greenpoint, Brooklyn NY
This Greenpoint-located café serves excellent espresso-infused drinks in an open, converted warehouse. It was founded in 2008 by Rich Nieto, a Queens native who wanted to roast coffee that reflects New York City: diverse, sophisticated, and decidedly unique.
Pauline’s – The Atlantic Seaboard, Cape Town
Located in Cape Town’s buzzing Sea Point, Pauline’s is a chic yet contemporary space with conscious culture in mind. And with interiors designed by Master Studio, you’ll come for the coffee and stay for the design-led vibe.
Saint Pearl – Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Paris
Speciality spot, Saint Pearl, is another welcomed addition to the ‘hood. It’s perfect for plant-based diets and those who like matcha in their lattes. The only problem? Everything on the menu looks great, so making a final decision isn’t easy.
Café Onion – Seongsu-dong, Seoul
Built in the 1970’s as a metal factory, Café Onion still features a rugged floor, old stickers, and stains from its past, reminding visitors of the building’s history. The space has been restored with ultra-modern features like wide windows, minimalist furniture, and a well-curated garden to modernise. During the warmer season, the rooftop terrace becomes one of the most popular spots for Seoulites enjoying coffee — perfect for people-watching.
Isla – Neukölln, Berlin
Here, you can expect tasty, vibrant coffee served in cups made from upcycled coffee grounds, bread pudding made from leftover pastries, and ricotta made from leftover milk. Isla owner Peter Duran aims to turn his little coffee spot on Hermannstraße into a zero waste-café, and we’re all for it.
Café Keppler – Amsterdam Noord
Kees Kraakman, the co-founder of Café Keppler, has been working within the world of specialty coffee for nearly two decades. Hence why those in the know head here for their caffeine fix. Calling upon restaurateur Mike Lubben to co-found the space, the two men work in harmony: “He’s the real [hospitality] guy, and I’m the coffee guy,” explains Kraakman. “We share the same vision in how we want to be open for everybody, so really, a neighbourhood cafe with quality products.”
NOLA Cafe – Peckham, London
This minimalist, design-led cafe serves specialty coffee and all-day brunch and was opened during the height of the pandemic by two musicians, Anthony and Josephine. They spent the last 6 years touring the world in their band Oh Wonder, and loved waking up in a new city each day and using coffee as a way to not only explore but anchor themselves.
Karabatak – Karaköy, Istanbul
This Karaköy coffeehouse is the perfect example of the neighbourhood's revitalisation. Located in a former metal workshop, the popular spot is decorated with vintage café tables and Julius Meinl posters. Make sure you take a look at the full array of specialty Turkish coffee, not to mention, all the tasty traditional pastries and sweet treats.
Takk – The Northern Quarter, Manchester
Start your morning at this Icelandic-themed coffee shop on Tariff Street. Whether you’re after a cup of their drip coffee, a healthy breakfast, or a place to power up your laptop and check emails, Takk is a freelancer's dream. The laid-back vibe and welcoming atmosphere is unmatched in the city. Oh, and if people-watching is your thing, make sure you get a spot by the window.
Lomond Coffee – Deptford, London
This all-female specialty roastery is not only passionate about the quality of the coffee they serve, but also where their beans come from. Hence why they only work with exceptional suppliers who are socially responsible. Oh, and it tastes yummy, too.
Syra Coffee – Gràcia, Barcelona
Coffee lovers flock to Syra to get their fix when in the neighbourhood. They brew a fabulous matcha and chai latte, as well as arrange workshops for those who want to know more about the art of coffee making.
KINONÓ – Koukaki, Athens
By day, KINONÓ serves as a sun-drenched minimalist coffee shop with healthy offerings. By night, swing by for their eclectic taste in music and in-house cocktails. It’s a popular spot with creative Athenians who flock to its road, Falirou, that’s lined with several good cafes all in a row, on either side. Those with a design sensibility will also favour its industrial fittings contrasted with warm wood and homely plants.
Dinosaur Coffee – Silver Lake, Los Angeles
One thing you’ll notice about this neighbourhood is that its residents love their coffee. And their coffee shops, too. Which is why you’re spoilt for choice here. Dinosaur is one of the best for its laid-back community vibe and spacious design.
Gallery Cafe — Wicker Park, Chicago
Local neighbourhoods are suckers for a hybrid, and Wicker Park is no different. This coffee-shop-meets-art-gallery allows you to grab a latte to go, while also admiring artwork from local artists before going on your way. Who doesn’t like an art chaser to their morning brew?