cosy-cafes-in-bucharest

Cosy Cafes in Bucharest

Not dubbed Little Paris for nothing, Bucharest is an European bohemian hotspot. Wandering around, you’ll pass by the Art Nouveau and Art Deco buildings, quaint neighbourhoods tucked away behind the main boulevards and green parks. The Communist blocks rise in between the rest, in a mismatch of styles and architectures.

Your eyes won’t ever get bored of the surroundings as there is always the odd thing popping right around the corner… when your feet do get tired, though, here are our favourite cosy spots to catch your breath and enjoy a delicious coffee or tea.

Credits: Infinitea Tea House

1. Infinitea

If you want a taste of the Little Paris of a century ago, Infinitea’s the place. Located in one of Bucharest’s old villas, the interior is chic and elegant, with a royal aura all around. Think big, sturdy sofas, vintage lampshades, heavy curtains, and rows upon rows of pretty china and tea sets. The tea is served into one of these timeless sets and comes accompanied by a small hourglass to ensure the infusion time is just right.

Doctor Grigore Romniceanu, 7, 1st Floor; Open Mon – Sun 11:00 – 22:00

Credits: Bistro Acuarela

2. Bistro Acuarela

Acuarela is a splash of colour on a quiet back street of Bucharest, away from all the hustle and bustle. Going in, you will feel as though you’ve stepped right onto an artist’s canvas. Acuarela (which really means watercolour) is a self-called bistro de l’arte. The various sets of furniture are complemented by the seemingly random decorations adorning the walls. The pastel colours, along with the quiet jazz music playing in the background create a relaxed, indie atmosphere. All you need to do is enjoy a cup of coffee and escape from the worries of real life for a couple of hours.

Polona, 40; Open Mon 14:00 – 21:00, Tue – Sun 12:00 – 21:00

Credits: Bohemian Tea House

3. Bohemian Tea House

This little fairytale spot is tucked right by Cismigiu Park. Our favourite nook is the attic where cosy poufs await scattered all over the floor. The tea menu is extensive, and with so many enticing blends, you will find it hard to pick just one! Not to worry, though, as they’re all good choices. Once that is sorted, you can easily spend a few hours here with a good tea and a good book or perhaps some board games if you’re visiting with friends. It certainly can’t get more bohemian than this – it’s in the name, after all.

Poiana Narciselor, 1; Open Mon – Sun 12:00 – 23:00

Credits: Grand Cafe Van Gogh

4. Cafe Van Gogh

Located right in the heart of Bucharest’s Old Town, Cafe Van Gogh is the right choice any time of day. You can start your day here with a coffee and croissant, watching the world go by in front of the long windows, or choose it as your lunch spot in between visiting. In the evening, the usually relaxed atmosphere picks up as you can enjoy some pre-dinner cocktails. Friendly and unpretentious, Cafe Van Gogh is easily one of the best spots to stop by.

Smardan, 30; Open Sun – Thur 08:30 – 12:00 am; Fri – Sat 08:30 – 01:00 am

Credits: Linea / Closer to the Moon

5. Linea Closer to the Moon

True to its name, Linea will make you feel just like you’re on board of a spaceship. As the chilly weather of autumn and winter creeps in, the rooftop terrace fills with igloos to keep you warm and cozy while still offering the “skybar” experience. It’s the perfect place to unwind and relax with a drink after a long day wandering around Bucharest. There is also a food menu available for some pre-dinner snacks – the chicken skewers with long, curly fries are quite good! Incredible views over the Bucharest Old Town and Dambovita canal are included!

Calea Victoriei, 17; Open Mon – Sun 12:00 – 20:45