Looking for the ultimate coffee experience in Palermo, Buenos Aires? If you’re a digital nomad, a traveler, or an expat, knowing where to find the best cafes can transform your daily routine and enrich your stay.
ExpatPathways brings you the 10 best cafes in Palermo, showcasing a variety of unique spots that promise exceptional coffee, inviting atmospheres, and delectable pastries.
Dive into our guide and explore the top cafes in Buenos Aires’ most dynamic neighborhood.
The 10 Best Cafes in Palermo (Buenos Aires)
1. Moshu Treehouse
Location: Guatemala 4570.
Moshu Treehouse, inspired by the concept of a “treehouse,” is a charming cafe located in an old house in Palermo. This modern yet comforting spot is known for its high-quality pastries and an inviting atmosphere that surprises visitors with its cozy interior.
With a selection of over 20 different cakes and a variety of delicious sandwiches, Moshu Treehouse has become a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Many patrons rave about the consistently good lattes and recommend trying the red velvet cake, cheese scones, and other delectable offerings.
The cafe’s unique ambiance, described as one of the coolest in Buenos Aires, makes it a perfect spot for both relaxation and socializing. The exterior might appear like a typical cafe, but stepping inside reveals a warm and welcoming environment.
Visitors often find themselves returning multiple times during their stay, drawn by the friendly service and delicious treats. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick coffee or a leisurely afternoon enjoying pastries, Moshu Treehouse is a must-visit destination in Palermo.
2. Varela Varelita
Location: Av. Raúl Scalabrini Ortiz 2102.
Varela Varelita, situated at the corner of Scalabrini Ortiz and Paraguay in Palermo, is a historic cafe with a rich legacy. Operating for many years, it has become a beloved spot for locals. The cafe’s name originates from the original owner, Varela, and his son, affectionately known as “Varelita.”
This classic cafe is steeped in history, frequented by notable figures such as writer Héctor Libertella and former vice president “Chacho” Álvarez, whose presence is immortalized through photos and stories shared by the staff and regular patrons.
Renowned for its traditional Argentine offerings, Varela Varelita serves a wonderful breakfast featuring coffee, medialunas, pastries, sweet potato tarts, and ham and cheese sandwiches. The cafe maintains a tranquil atmosphere where customers can enjoy high-quality products and friendly, efficient service.
Reasonably priced and rich in character, Varela Varelita is a classic neighborhood staple, offering a glimpse into the cultural and historical fabric of Buenos Aires. This notable bar remains a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the authentic charm of Palermo.
3. Vive Café
Location: Costa Rica 5722.
Vive Café is a vibrant, bohemian spot in Palermo known for serving some of the best Colombian coffee in Buenos Aires at economical prices. This small, cozy cafe offers a variety of artisanal cakes, puddings, and pastries, making it an ideal place for a delightful merienda.
The menu features an impressive selection of coffees, each with distinct flavors and aromas, such as the fruity and intense Café Boyacá, the smooth and citrusy Café Guanés, the chocolatey Café Fraterno, and the sweet Café Cundinamarca with notes of vanilla and hazelnuts.
Visitors often praise the quality of both the coffee and the baked goods. The banana bread, almond alfajores filled with dulce de leche, carrot cake, and guava-stuffed almojábanas are particularly popular.
Despite its small size and limited seating, Vive Café’s charming atmosphere and excellent coffee make it a favorite among locals, remote workers, and tourists. The warm and cozy setting, coupled with friendly staff and a peaceful sidewalk vibe, provides a perfect start to the day.
4. Full City Coffee Roasters
Location: Thames 1535.
Full City Coffee Roasters, an independent coffee house in Palermo, specializes in 100% Colombian coffee roasted in-house. This cafe is celebrated for its high-quality specialty coffee and a welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for working, meeting friends, or simply relaxing.
Located around Plaza Serrano, Full City Coffee Roasters offers an extensive menu that includes delicious pastries and upcoming brunch options. The cafe’s deck provides a chill-out space perfect for enjoying your coffee in a relaxed setting.
Customers appreciate the friendly and quick service provided by the staff, with many noting the owner’s expertise and passion for coffee. The outdoor patio is spacious and inviting, making it a great place to unwind.
The cafe’s ambiance is inclusive and tourist-friendly, with English menus and a variety of breakfast and brunch options. Full City Coffee Roasters is a must-visit for serious coffee enthusiasts, with consistently well-prepared V60 pour-overs and other specialty brews that highlight their dedication to quality.
5. PADRE Panadería & Confiteria
Location: Honduras 4184.
PADRE Panadería & Confiteria is a casual joint in Palermo that offers specialty coffee made with house-roasted beans, along with a variety of light fare and craft beer. This spacious and beautifully designed cafe is perfect for a morning or afternoon delight, with an extensive menu that includes delicious options for breakfast and brunch.
The sourdough bread, eggs, and chorizo breakfast is particularly popular, and the V60 coffee is a must-try, served in beautiful cups that enhance the experience.
Customers frequently praise the friendly and accommodating staff, who go out of their way to ensure a pleasant visit. The cafe’s ambiance is welcoming, with several different areas to sit and relax.
Whether you’re enjoying a French press coffee with a perfectly textured pastry or a hearty breakfast, PADRE offers an exceptional dining experience. The combination of great food, excellent coffee, and a relaxing atmosphere makes it a favorite among both locals and visitors.
6. Kajue Café
Location: Guatemala 4665.
Kajue Café, located in Palermo, is a specialty coffee shop offering a wide range of breakfast, brunch, and lunch options, as well as a daily menu and delicious desserts. Known for its excellent food and exclusive service, Kajue Café is also pet-friendly, making it a great spot for animal lovers.
The arepa breakfast is highly recommended, and the mushroom toast is another popular choice among patrons. The cafe’s small size often means there’s a wait, but the exceptional food and friendly service make it worth the time.
The cafe’s warm and inviting atmosphere, combined with generous portions and rich flavors, creates a delightful dining experience. Regulars appreciate the consistent quality of the coffee and the creative menu options.
With a cozy setting and attentive staff, Kajue Café is perfect for a leisurely meal or a quick coffee break. The overall positive vibes and delicious offerings have made it a beloved spot for both locals and tourists in Buenos Aires.
7. Cocu Boulangerie
Location: Malabia 1510.
Cocu Boulangerie is a French bakery located in the heart of Palermo Soho, renowned for its traditional French baking techniques and high-quality local ingredients. Established in 2012 by three passionate French founders, Cocu offers an authentic French experience with its exquisite pastries, breads, and specialty coffee.
The bakery’s atmosphere is warm and inviting, with the scent of freshly baked bread filling the air and classic French music playing in the background.
Customers rave about the excellent food, coffee, and service at Cocu. Popular items include the lime eclair and the raisin roll, both of which are praised for their outstanding taste and texture.
The friendly and knowledgeable staff, like Marcelo, enhance the overall experience by providing detailed explanations of the various pastry options. With its charming ambiance and top-notch offerings, Cocu Boulangerie has become a favorite spot for locals and visitors seeking a taste of France in Buenos Aires.
8. Tolon Café
Location: Av. Sta. Fe 3200.
Tolon Café, located at the bustling corner of Coronel Díaz and Avenida Santa Fe, is a historic cafe in the Palermo neighborhood. Known for its prime location and long-standing history, Tolon Café offers a welcoming atmosphere for anyone looking to enjoy a good coffee, juice, yogurt, or exquisite pastries.
The cafe also serves draft beer, making it a versatile spot for any time of day. On a busy Sunday afternoon, you might encounter a wait, but the friendly service and delicious offerings make it worthwhile.
Visitors have been pleasantly surprised by the quality of the food, including standout dishes like steak and vegetarian sandwiches. The ambiance is comfortable and inviting, with a classic charm that makes it easy to relax and have a conversation.
The staff are noted for their attentive service, ensuring that every guest has a pleasant experience. With reasonable prices and a cozy environment, Tolon Café is a delightful place to spend time in Palermo, enjoying high-quality food and drinks.
9. Vestalia – Café botánico
Location: Gascón 1317.
Vestalia, known as Café Botánico, is more than just a cafe; it’s a cozy, home-like space filled with plants and history. Located in Palermo, Vestalia invites guests to feel at home with its warm atmosphere and friendly service.
The cafe is pet-friendly and features a special room for those who want to study or work remotely. Specialty coffee and loose-leaf tea are served in vintage, collectible cups, adding to the charming, eclectic ambiance.
The cafe’s commitment to quality is evident in every cup of coffee and plate of food. The menu includes vegetarian options like avocado and egg toast or hummus and bell pepper toast, satisfying a variety of tastes.
The presence of a dog and cat adds to the homey feel, making Vestalia a unique and inviting spot. The delightful combination of botanical charm, delicious coffee, and homemade cuisine makes it a standout choice in Palermo. Whether you’re there for a casual coffee or a focused work session, Vestalia offers a warm and welcoming retreat.
10. Evaristo Café
Location: José A. Cabrera 3975.
Evaristo Café, a specialty coffee shop in Palermo, offers a wide array of beverages, including artisanal beer and vermouth, as well as high-quality pastries. The cafe caters to diverse dietary needs with vegan, keto, and gluten-free options.
Evaristo is praised for its excellent coffee, friendly service, and relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for working or enjoying a leisurely break. The spacious and comfortable environment, complete with good music and air conditioning, makes it a perfect place to spend a productive morning.
The food at Evaristo is as impressive as the coffee. Popular dishes include avocado toast and pulled pork with spicy honey. The cafe’s unique ambiance, featuring an industrial vibe with bikes and books adorning the walls, adds to its charm.
The two-floor layout provides plenty of seating options, and the bar with high chairs offers a fun way to engage with the barista. With outstanding coffee and delightful pastries, Evaristo Café is a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy a great coffee experience in Palermo.
(Featured Image Source: Jennifer Corry/flickr.com)
