What is one of the dreams of any book lover? Find a place where you can not only read in silence and calm, but also where you can enjoy a coffee and something delicious.
Well, Buenos Aires is a city where coffee and books go together very well. From specialty coffee shops with books to read to bookstores or libraries that offer a small space to have a coffee. The options are diverse.
The Best Book Bars in Buenos Aires
1. Vivaldi Books Bar
Location: Santiago del Estero 1098.
Located just a few meters from the Faculty of Social Sciences of the University of Buenos Aires, Vivaldi Books Bar is a haven for literature and coffee lovers alike.
This literary bar and café offers a wide range of books, primarily focused on literature and social sciences, making it an ideal spot for students and book enthusiasts. The cozy atmosphere, combined with excellent service and a delightful menu, creates the perfect environment for studying, reading, or simply enjoying a cup of coffee.
Visitors appreciate the serene ambiance, where soft music plays in the background and the cleanliness of the facilities is maintained. The staff’s friendliness and the well-curated selection of books contribute to a welcoming experience. Whether you’re there to work on a project or dive into a novel, Vivaldi Books Bar offers a peaceful retreat amidst the bustling city.
2. Libros del Pasaje
Location: Thames 1762.
Libros del Pasaje, established on May 18, 2004, is not just a bookstore but a cultural hub in Buenos Aires. This beautiful location boasts a vast and ever-renewing catalog of books, including both national and imported titles.
The staff, passionate about reading, are always ready to assist and recommend books. The venue also hosts various cultural activities such as book presentations, art exhibitions, and children’s events, making it a lively spot for book lovers.
The café within Libros del Pasaje adds to the charm, offering a peaceful place to enjoy a coffee, sandwich, or pastry while reading. The mezzanine level art section and the high-ceilinged, vaulted space create an inviting atmosphere filled with peace and culture.
With comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, and a friendly ambiance, this book bar is a must-visit for anyone seeking a blend of literary exploration and relaxation.
3. Eterna Cadencia
Location: Honduras 5582.
Founded in 2008, Eterna Cadencia is an independent neighborhood bookstore situated in a remodeled old house in Palermo. It houses over 40,000 titles, including a mix of classics and new releases. The bookstore is a cultural landmark where both readers and writers gather for book presentations, festivals, live interviews, and reading events.
The ambiance is tranquil and inviting, with an atrium coffee shop and restaurant that enhance the overall experience.
Eterna Cadencia is praised for its excellent selection of books, friendly staff, and serene environment. The architecture features wooden bookshelves that reach the ceiling, a charming patio, and a terrace filled with plants.
Whether you’re enjoying a coffee in the café area or browsing through the extensive collection of books, Eterna Cadencia offers a cozy and inspiring setting reminiscent of an old, book-filled home.
4. El Ateneo Grand Splendid
Location: Av. Sta. Fe 1860.
El Ateneo Grand Splendid is the most renowned bookstore in Buenos Aires, celebrated for its stunning architecture, historical significance, and vast book selection.
This iconic location has transformed from a theatre, cinema, and radio studio into a grand bookstore. Visitors can enjoy a coffee and snack at the bar situated on the former stage while deciding which book to purchase.
With several floors to explore and a beautifully preserved interior, El Ateneo Grand Splendid offers a unique and immersive experience. The grandeur of the space, combined with the extensive collection of books, makes it a must-visit for both locals and tourists.
The experience is enriched by the historical ambiance, allowing visitors to take home not only books but also memories of a breathtaking cultural landmark.
5. Atlántica Libros y Café
Location: Av. Directorio 115.
Located in the Caballito neighborhood, Atlántica Libros y Café is a charming space that combines a love for books with a delightful café. This cozy book bar offers a warm and welcoming environment, perfect for unwinding with a good book and a cup of coffee.
The space is well-organized, clean, and features a variety of books to suit all tastes. Visitors praise the excellent service and the inviting atmosphere, which makes it easy to relax and enjoy a peaceful afternoon.
The café complements the bookstore perfectly, providing a range of delicious beverages and snacks. With its pleasant ambiance and comfortable seating, Atlántica Libros y Café is an ideal spot for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse themselves in a world of literature.
The combination of great coffee, a wide selection of books, and a friendly environment makes this book bar a standout destination in Buenos Aires.
6. Librería Bar Caras y Caretas
Location: Junín 365.
Librería Bar Caras y Caretas, located near Callao and Corrientes, is a unique blend of a bookstore, café, and restaurant. This space was created to foster discussion, reflection, and learning, with a well-curated selection of books focusing on themes such as Peronism, unionism, and feminism.
The inviting atmosphere and attentive staff make it a pleasant place to spend time, whether you’re looking to enjoy a meal, have a coffee, or delve into a book.
The book bar’s comfortable seating and relaxed environment allow visitors to read without interruption. The reasonable prices and high-quality service add to the charm of Caras y Caretas, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Whether you’re interested in exploring new authors or simply enjoying a quiet corner with a coffee, this book bar offers a perfect retreat for book lovers.
7. La Casa del Árbol
Location: Av. Córdoba 5217.
La Casa del Árbol is more than just a bookstore and café; it is also a cultural center that hosts musical and literary events. Located in Buenos Aires, this book bar offers a variety of books on philosophy, Latin American literature, and essays, providing a rich selection for curious minds. The café serves excellent coffee and provides a relaxed environment where visitors can enjoy their reading.
The venue features a beautiful stage for performances, creating a dynamic space where people can socialize, enjoy live music, or attend literary events. The friendly staff and excellent prices make La Casa del Árbol a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
With its combination of good books, great coffee, and a vibrant cultural scene, this book bar is an essential stop for anyone looking to experience the literary side of Buenos Aires.
(Featured Image Source: Aaron Burden/unsplash.com)
