Colombia is famous across the world for producing amazing coffee but surpringsly few Colombians had ever sampled their incredible product. For many years all of the best coffee was taken from the farms and immediately exported around the world, where it was sold at a higher price.
Colombians would enjoy lower quality store bought coffee or would grab a ‘tinto’ from a street vendor. A tinto is a strong, dark ground coffee served in a small cup to give a quick boost of energy. Coffee was something to wake you pep you up rather than enjoy and celebrate.
Over the last twenty years, there has been a revival and things have begun to change. Colombians who are passionate about coffee wanted to share the amazing flavors and rich culture with their fellow countrymen. International migrants have also been at the heart of the new wave of coffee appreciation in the country. Many arrived expecting a rich scene before realizing it was something they could help to create and support.
I have lived in Medellin for over fifteen years and I have seen dozens of excellent coffee shops popping up all over the city. Today you can find amazing coffee across the city in beautiful, relaxing cafés. There has also been a concerted effort to use coffee production to improve the lives of growers and previously excluded communities.
In this article I will discuss some of the best coffee shops in Medellin and what to expect.
Pergamino
Laureles, Poblado, Centro, Envigado
Pergamino is an excellent option that offers everything you would want from a café in Medellin.
They source their coffee locally from the Antioquia region with farms in Santa Bárbara, Urrao, and Caicedo. The expert growers select the finest beans that are taken to be roasted and then processed. The coffee is available in select stores but is best enjoyed prepared by their experienced baristas in one of their beautiful Bergamino locations in Medellin.
The atmosphere is very relaxed and it is a great place to work. They also offer great breakfasts and baked goods which you should definitely try. You can find conveniently located branches in Laureles and Poblado. Pergamino is definitely one of the best coffee shops in Medellin.
Rituales
Laureles
Rituales offers award-winning coffee that is grown sustainably in one of the most deprived neighborhoods high on the hills at the edge of Medellin.
All of the coffee comes from La Sierra neighborhood in Comuna 8. La Sierra has traditionally been known for criminality and violence but thanks to this and other projects things are improving. La Sierra is rapidly gaining a reputation for great coffee. The name rituales refers to the ceremonies undertaken as part of the production process which creates three types of coffees. The coffees are named Pureza, Luz, and Paraíso, each with a distinct smell, texture, and flavor.
Recently Rituates won a blind taste test in the city. From soil to cup, they have real passionate experts dedicated to offering the best coffee possible. At their coffee shop you can enjoy all-day brunch and excellent bakery products. This is a great place to hang out in Laureles and talk to the expert baristas.
One of the best coffee shops in Medellin for amazing coffee and an important project.
Aroma de Barrio Café
Comuna 13
Aroma de Barrio is another café closely linked to the revival and development of the city.
The café is located in Comuna 13. This was once one of the most dangerous areas of Medellin but today it is a center for art, music, culture, and an example of what is possible when a community unites for change. Amor de Barrio grow their own coffee and then offers it to locals and visitors in their lovely neighborhood café.
They have concerts, talks, and dance performances in the fun and colorful venue. You are made very welcome and the owners are very proud to serve you up a cup of their finest coffee. If you want a lively, friendly environment this is one of the best coffee shops in Medellin.
Urbania Café
Poblado, Belen, Centro, Envigado
Urbania is a local project to offer socially responsible and environmentally sustainable coffee. They work with local growers and have a decided aim of celebrating coffee culture while ensuring fair conditions for everyone involved in the process. They look after growers in a far more equitable way than the multinationals who promise the same thing.
They have a number of coffee shops in the region while their café in Calle 8 is particularly nice. They have a good variety of excellent hot and cold coffees plus fresh lemonades and juices that you can enjoy with waffles, breads, and brownies.
Café Revolución
Laureles
Café Revolución was founded in 2014 by Hungarian-Canadian owners who wanted to offer some of the best local beans and serve superb coffee. Their coffee comes from the Salento-Quindío region which is known for excellent growing conditions. The beats have a rich flavor which is perfect for espressos, and they have refreshing cold drinks.
They also offer paninis, baked goods, smoothies, and breakfasts with vegetarian and vegan options. Prices are fair and the location is very convenient in the first Laureles Park. It is a great place to work and relax.
Amati
Envigado
Amati is a café located in Jarines on the famous Calle de La Buena Mesa, a popular street in Envigado which is known for excellent restaurants. They have high-quality beans and a really nice space which is great for a long chat with friends or a productive, relaxing day of work.
Amati also offers Argentine baked goods which are excellent. Prices are a little high but the quality is definitely there and it is a great place for a break when you visit the friendly and charming Envigado. One of the best coffee shops in Medellin for a relaxing afternoon in a very comfortable setting.
Astor
El Centro, Belen, Poblado, Envigado
Located in the heart of downtown, Astor is pastry shop that has become a local institution since opening over 90 years ago. They have since opened new cafés around the city but the original and best is located on Junín close to the iconic Coltejer building and the Metropolitan Cathedral. It is a famous spot where people have met for coffee and snacks for decades.
They have good quality coffee in a very cozy, relaxed environment. The sweets and pastries are what have given Astor its excellent reputation but the coffee is also very good and the environment is great. One of the best coffee shops in Medellin for history and delicious food.
