The 7 Best Coffee Shops In Rio de Janeiro

In between thumping Carnival festivities, jaw-dropping coastlines, and some of the most stunning landscapes in the world, Rio de Janeiro also manages to serve up some of the best coffee in Brazil.

Whether you’re looking for a quaint little cafe to work remotely from or are in need of a really strong cup of coffee, here are the seven best coffee shops in Rio de Janeiro serving up everything you desire.

The 7 Best Coffee Shops In Rio de Janeiro, How do these rankings work?

1. Curto Cafe

The coffee here is priceless, literally. The concept at Curto Cafe is that guests pay what they want, which is pretty manageable when you only sell three products – espresso, cappuccino, or coffee beans. Despite the lack of humdrum and hullaballoo, Curto manages to cater to coffee-crazed Brazilians all over Rio who come to enjoy the delectable taste and intriguing business model.

2. Café Carandaí

You’ll find this quaint little cafe tucked away in the Botanic Garden area of Rio, which adds to the unique charm that oozes from the coffee shop itself. It’s likely due to the fact that they only serve coffee beans from São José do Vale do Rio Preto, a region just outside of Rio. The special nod to local coffee production is impressive, and the preparation is even better.

3. Casa Cave

This European-style coffee shop feels more like a French pastry shop than one of the best coffee shops in Rio de Janeiro. However, it truly is one of the best, serving up quality coffee and some of the best pastel de natas in the entire city. Head here for the coffee, but stay here for the continental vibes and truly tasty desserts.

4. Cafe Secreto

Upon entering Cafe Secreto, it comes as no surprise that the owner is a filmmaker turned barista. The place exudes creativity and almost seems like a work of art itself. As for the coffee – what visitors seem to love the most is the fact that you can ask for a variety of different brewing methods. Definitely try the AeroPress or branch out and order an iced coffee with lemon juice.

5. Sofa Cafe

With a successful branch in Sao Paulo, it makes sense that entrepreneur Diego Gonzales would want to open a Sofa Cafe in Rio. It’s a good thing he did, as it’s become one of the best coffee shops in Rio de Janeiro. We believe the differentiating factor is the unique menu. You can consume coffee according to sensory profiles, such as comfort, cult, or even a cold brew.

6. Empório Jardim

The modern, inviting space that Empório Jardim occupies is just part of its unique charm. Here, they serve breakfast all day and offer a variety of gourmet meals. However, it’s the laidback vibes and high-quality coffee that seem to effortlessly pull locals back time and time again.

7. Jarbô

Looking for a hidden oasis within the hustle and bustle of Rio de Janeiro? Head to Jarbô, which feels like it belongs on a jungle reserve rather than one of Brazil’s busiest cities. The coffee here is some of the best in Rio, but you’ll notice that the cafe also serves light breakfast options and some super tasty meat during lunchtime.