Origo Coffee – A mainstay of the specialty coffee scene, Origo is often called “the best coffee shop in Bucharest (and even the country)”. During the day, it serves carefully prepared coffee of origin (espresso, V60, aeropress, etc.), and in the evening it turns into a cocktail bar. Prices are moderate (~10–15 lei an espresso, ~15–20 lei a flat white). The atmosphere is vibrant, with passionate baristas – “Origo, during the day: the best coffee in Bucharest, the barista always ready to tell you about coffee and educate you”. It has won numerous awards, and in 2025 it was designated “The best cafe in Romania” at the Romanian Hospitality Awards, confirming the high standard of coffee and services.
Bob Coffee Lab – Cafe and roastery run by national barista champions, located near Herăstrău Park. Bob has distinguished itself internationally: it is the only cafe in Romania included in the Top 100 Coffee Shops in the world (2025), ranked 46th globally and #18 in Europe. Here you can enjoy home-grown coffees, exceptional filter extracts and even coffee ice cream. An espresso costs ~12 lei, a cappuccino ~15 lei. The atmosphere is modern-minimalist, focused on the coffee ritual. Loyal customers praise innovation and constancy: “The standard set by Bob Coffee Lab in Romanian specialty coffee is the market standard” – a place where enthusiasts gather to experience new flavors.
Steam Coffee Shop – A small and charming corner cafe (they have two locations, one near Circului Park, the other at Aviatorilor). It is appreciated for its excellent brewed coffee and for its bright and welcoming Scandinavian design. Prices are ~12 lei for espresso, ~18 lei for drinks with milk. The small but “charming and intimate interior ranks Steam among the best coffee shops”. The baristas are very well trained, although sometimes the place can be crowded at peak times. Recommended for a flat white or a reinterpreted kettle brew – many say that at Steam they drank perhaps the best flat white in town, in a calm, relaxing atmosphere.
Beans&Dots – Hip cafe located in the retro building of the Universul Palace, overlooking Cișmigiu. It offers coffee from top roasters (The Barn Berlin) and has an artsy vibe, frequented by creatives and freelancers. An Americano costs ~10 lei, a latte ~15 lei. The generous, industrial-chic decor and the airy space make it suitable for remote work. “A fascinating urban place with a retro feel – the atmosphere is great, the staff and customers are lively. And the coffee (flat white) was super tasty,” says one delighted visitor. Bonus: in the same space you also find a concept store with local design. Beans&Dots has been recommended by many locals for its balance of quality coffee, friendly environment and the cultural events it hosts.
M60 – A cafe & bistro with Scandinavian design, located close to the Roman Square. It is known as a “laptop-friendly” place, where many come to work or study, enjoying the wifi and abundant natural light. Specialty coffee (from local roasters) costs ~12–18 lei, and M60 also offers brunch (eg poached eggs, avocado toast) ~30–40 lei. The atmosphere is relaxed and social. “A beautiful place with beautiful people. The staff is very kind and smiling. The food is very tasty and they have many vegetarian options,” says one review. In the evening, the M60 sometimes hosts music events or fairs, maintaining its reputation as a creative and friendly hub.
This article is an English translation and adaptation of the original Romanian article on Lista Scurtă. Read the Romanian version.
