Best Cafés in Baku: Traditional Flavors and Modern Vibes
From tea houses to modern espresso bars, discover where to find the best cafés in Baku for your caffeine fix and local delights.
Baku’s café scene beautifully reflects its cultural diversity—offering everything from traditional Azerbaijani tea houses to modern third-wave coffee shops. Whether you’re looking for a cozy spot to enjoy a steaming cup of tea or a trendy espresso bar to catch up with friends, Baku’s cafés are as vibrant and diverse as the city itself.
Stylish and Modern: Café City
Start your café journey at Café City, one of Baku’s most popular spots, known for its stylish decor and diverse menu. Located centrally, it’s a go-to destination for both business meetings and casual gatherings. The café offers a range of espresso-based drinks, including the rich Café Latte and smooth Flat White. Pair your coffee with a pistachio baklava or a cheese-filled qutab for a fusion of local and modern flavors.
The interior combines elegant lighting with comfortable seating, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re catching up with friends or taking a break from exploring the city, Café City’s relaxed yet chic vibe makes it a perfect urban retreat.
For something a bit different, try their signature iced coffee, blended with hints of hazelnut and chocolate—a refreshing pick-me-up during Baku’s warm afternoons. The extensive food menu also caters to various tastes, from local Azerbaijani dishes to international cuisine, making it an ideal spot for both locals and tourists.
Hip and Trendy: United Coffee Beans
If you’re looking for a more laid-back, contemporary café experience, head to United Coffee Beans. Known for its hipster ambiance and dedication to quality, this café is a favorite among young locals and digital nomads. The baristas here take their craft seriously, offering pour-over options like V60 and Chemex, as well as a robust Espresso Macchiato that balances boldness with a creamy finish.
The café’s open-plan layout and industrial decor are enhanced by large windows that let in plenty of natural light. It’s a perfect spot to relax with a Cold Brew while working on your laptop or meeting friends. The Carrot Cake, topped with a light cream cheese frosting, is a must-try, complementing the café’s smooth, aromatic brews.
United Coffee Beans also hosts occasional coffee workshops, where visitors can learn more about brewing methods and bean origins. Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast or just looking for a cozy place to unwind, this spot offers a vibrant slice of Baku’s evolving café culture.
Cultural and Traditional: Çay Bağı 145
For a taste of local tradition, visit Çay Bağı 145, a tea garden located in the historic Old City (Icherisheher). Stepping into this tea house feels like traveling back in time, with its armudu glasses (traditional pear-shaped tea cups) and a tranquil garden setting. The café specializes in black Azerbaijani tea, served with a selection of sweets like pakhlava and shekerbura.
Try the Dried Fruit Tea, infused with natural flavors and served with jam and sugar cubes—a true local experience. The staff are welcoming and happy to share stories about tea traditions, making it more than just a place to drink tea but a cultural immersion.
The tea garden’s atmosphere is peaceful, with the scent of fresh herbs and flowers blending harmoniously with the aroma of brewed tea. It’s a wonderful spot for those wanting to experience Baku’s rich tea culture while soaking in the Old City’s charm.
Bookish and Cozy: Books in Baku
If you love literature and coffee, Books in Baku offers the perfect combination. This bookshop-meets-café is ideal for solo travelers, students, and anyone seeking a quiet retreat. Located near the bustling city center, it features shelves filled with both Azerbaijani and international literature, creating an intellectually stimulating environment.
Order a Café Americano and a slice of apple tart, then settle into one of the comfy armchairs with a good book. The café’s warm lighting and soft music enhance the relaxed, contemplative atmosphere. It’s an excellent spot to catch up on reading or simply enjoy a moment of calm amidst the city’s energy.
For something unique, try the Lavender Latte, subtly floral with a creamy texture—perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up. Books in Baku also hosts literary events and poetry readings, adding a creative touch to Baku’s coffee culture.
Luxurious and Elegant: Passage 145
For a more upscale experience, visit Passage 145, known for its luxurious interiors and a wide selection of drinks. The ambiance is refined, with plush seating and modern decor that feels both comfortable and chic. It’s popular among young professionals and expats who appreciate good coffee in a sophisticated setting.
Try the Cappuccino with Cardamom, a nod to the region’s love for aromatic spices, or go for a Turkish Coffee served with lokum (Turkish delight) for a more traditional taste. The Matcha Latte is also a favorite among health-conscious visitors, offering a vibrant green boost in an elegant presentation.
Passage 145 is perfect for evening meet-ups, offering not just coffee but also a selection of mocktails and light snacks. The lounge-like atmosphere makes it ideal for unwinding after a day of exploring, blending modern luxury with a hint of local flavor.
The Heart of Baku’s Café Culture: Espresso or Tea?
Baku’s café culture beautifully balances tradition and modernity. On one hand, you have the timeless tea houses where cafezinhos (small, strong coffees) and traditional teas take center stage. On the other, contemporary coffee shops push the boundaries with new brewing techniques and global influences.
Azerbaijan’s long-standing love affair with tea continues to influence the café scene, but the rising trend of specialty coffee is undeniable. Whether you prefer the comfort of a black tea served in armudu glasses or the bold richness of an espresso macchiato, Baku’s cafés offer both. The choice between espresso and tea often reflects the city’s dual nature—rooted in tradition but eager to embrace the new.
Final Thoughts: A Blend of Heritage and Innovation
Whether you love espresso or herbal tea, Baku’s cafés offer warmth, flavor, and hospitality. From the historic tea gardens that preserve Azerbaijan’s rich traditions to modern espresso bars that cater to the city’s youthful energy, every spot tells a story of Baku’s evolving identity. The blend of old and new, local and global, makes Baku’s café culture as dynamic as the city itself.
Next time you’re in Baku, take the time to enjoy a quiet tea in the Old City or a robust espresso in a trendy neighborhood café. It’s in these moments that you truly feel the city’s pulse—vibrant, welcoming, and endlessly fascinating.
