17 best cafes in India | List of aesthetic coffee shops in India

With many new coffee shops mushrooming in every city, coffee culture has transcended into a unique and international experience. You can now experience culture, coffee and community at some of the best cafes in India. These coffee houses and cafes work as a window to the world where people socialize, unwind, and even conduct business. In this article, you’ll find an exhaustive list of small and designer coffee shops and the best cafe interiors in India. Also learn how to spot a good cafe from afar, find out the secret method here. In the FAQ section, you can also find answers to your queries about the Indian cafe culture.

Let’s dive into the sumptuous world of cafes and coffee!

List of 17 best cafes in India

17 aesthetic cafes in India

Best cafes in India #1 – Starbucks, Pan India

Image Source: Vogue.in

This name is synonymous with creating memories and having fun. Starbucks is the first place that comes to everyone’s mind. It’s the iconic coffee and an even more iconic takeaway coffee cup, but, in addition to that, Starbucks also gives due regard to design and ambience. 

Most outlets represent a natural landscape with perforated ceilings, coffee flower motifs, and a coffee map of the world. Also, the ample use of brown, beige, and green in the coffee shop interiors gives it a sense of warmth and leisure.

Cost for two: Rs. 600 (approx.)

Address: Pan India 

Food recommendations: Mocha praline frappuccino, chicken tikka panini, chai tea latte, and red velvet cake

Best cafes in India #2 – Hauz Khas Social, New Delhi

Image Source: Socialoffline.in

The design of this sustainable coffee shop offers a stunning visual appeal to the visitors. The agenda of Hauz Khas Social is to melt worlds and foster creative liberation. The sprawling space that stretches up to 8500 sq. ft. gives a sense of mystery and intrigue. If you love the vibe of upcycled furniture, brick-cladded walls, and striking interior décor, Social must find a place on your go-to list.

Whether you want to get your creative horses running or simply network with some like-minded people, Social is the place for you!

Cost for two: Rs. 2300 (approx.)

Address: 9A & 12, Hauz Khas Village, Deer Park, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110016

Food recommendations: Jalapeno cheese nads, social shake, and chicken shawarma platter 

Best cafes in India #3 – Roastery Coffee House, Hyderabad

Image Source: Telenganatoday.com

If you want to take your date or your friends back in time, visit Roastery Coffee House in Hyderabad. Surrounded by the majestic and bustling area of Banjara Hills, this cute colonial-style bungalow is home to a beautiful café. Also, the charming interior design of the coffee shop, lush greenery, and romantic vibe are sure to win your heart. So, if you decide to go there, don’t miss the lip-smacking delicacies such as baked fish, fried zucchini, brownie blend, etc.

Cost for two: Rs. 950 (approx.)

Address: 418, 8-2, 287/12, Rd Number 14, BNR Colony, Venkat Nagar, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, Telangana 500034

Food recommendations: Honey blended cold brew, spaghetti and salsa sauce, hot cascara, and cold brew apple cider cascara 

Best cafes in India #4 – Bar Palladio

Image Source: Bar Palladio Jaipur on Zomato.com

Bringing authentic and classic Italian cuisine to Jaipur. That was the simple intention behind Bar Palladio in Jaipur. Owned by an Italian, designed by a Dutch and enjoyed by innumerable people in India, Bar Palladio is truly a global concept cafe. 

In the words of the owner, Barbara Miolini, “Bar Palladio was born in December 2013, from the love of travel and from the desire to seek beauty.”

The impeccable work of the designer Marrie-Anne Oudejans in this coffee shop has been an attraction not only for the patrons but also for national and international publications. Their use of bright hues, traditional elements and secret rendezvous corners have drawn the eyes of Elle India and Vogue Arabia. 

Cost for two: Rs. 2500 (approx.)

Address: Kanota Bagh, Narain Singh Road, Jaipur – RJ 302004 India

Food recommendation: Gnocchi, tiramisu, spaghetti and signature cocktails

Best cafes in India #5 – The Courtyard, Bangalore

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Akhila Srinivas’s The Courtyard is a blend of urban and vintage. The founder decided to retain her beloved grandmother’s bungalow and mix art and culture to give it an Old Bangalore feel. M9 Design Studio, their interior designers, took it upon themselves to redesign the space with creativity. The small coffee shop design offers a natural feel to the visitors. 

To celebrate the old stories, community, and food of Bangalore, The Courtyard offers the most diverse menu. 

Cost for two: Rs. 1000 (approx.)

Address: 105, KH Road, opp. Corporation Bank, Raja Ram Mohan Roy Extension, Shanti Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560027

Food recommendations: Shakshuka, Tabbouleh salad, and chocolate peanut butter milkshake.

Best cafes in India #6 – Third Wave Coffee Roasters, Bangalore

Image Source: Worldcoffeeportal.com

Third Wave Coffee Roasters is one of the fastest growing speciality coffee brands in India. This boutique cafe offers coffee beverages in surprising flavours. Despite being situated in a mall, it doesn’t let the mall’s interiors interfere with its own. 

The coffee shop’s layout and the use of wood tones for its furniture, ceiling, and flooring make it welcoming. Also, the open ceiling has some beautiful signage and lighting that add to the overall look of the café. No wonder the place remains a top hangout spot among the millennials and the Gen-Z of Bangalore.

Address: Koramangala 4th Block, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560027

Food recommendations: Pecan pie, praline, and almond croissants.

Also see: 18 Best farmhouses in India for a weekend getaway (with inspirational designs)

Best cafes in India #7 – United Coffee House, New Delhi

Image Source: Tasteatlas.com

Lala Hans Raj Kalra opened a restaurant named Esplanade in 1938-39 which would later turn into the legendary United Coffee House. This cafe remains the epitome of India’s struggles, rich heritage, and living history. The 23-foot-high ceiling, Harry Winston tapestry, and the glorious Viennese chandelier exude sheer elegance. Also, it was the first restaurant in the country to use air-conditioning and deep-freezing equipment. 

If you want to go back in time with your friends and loved ones, UCH unarguably remains a top choice in Delhi coffee shops. The delectable food options, soul-stirring coffee, timeless interiors, and classic Connaught Place location make United Coffee House one of the favourite coffee shops of people of all ages.

Cost for two: Rs. 2100 (approx.)

Address: E-15, Rajiv Chowk, Block E, Connaught Place, New Delhi 110001

Food recommendations: Multani paneer, Burmese Khao Suey, and Hua Hin spring rolls.

Best coffee shop in India #8 – Plural, Mumbai

Image Source: Plural on Zomato.com

A newly launched Southeast Asian restaurant and café, Plural remains ensconced inside a heritage building in Mumbai’s Kala Ghoda precinct.

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If you are done with cliché décor and want to explore something smart and offbeat, Plural’s the place. The 1,500 sq. ft. space oozes smart design with a scientifically planned use of form, texture, and colour.

The use of calming hues, curvilinear forms, and textural infusions offer a refreshing aesthetic to the coffee shop design. Also, eco-friendly materials like terracotta, wood, and rattan find their way easily into the theme. Plural also lets you connect with the earth through the use of visual imagery in the form of paddy fields and green wallpapers.

Cost for two: Rs. 2500 (approx.)

Address: Jai Hind Building, Nanik Motwani Marg, Kala Ghoda, Fort, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400001

Food recommendations: Chocolate cake, gnocchi, and pho.

Best coffee shop in India #9 – Araku Coffee, Bengaluru

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Araku Coffee is one of the leading speciality coffee brands in India with flagship cafes in Paris and Bengaluru. Supported by the Nandi Foundation, it is the first speciality coffee brand to completely transform the seed-to-cup journey of coffee. 

Araku Cafe in Bengaluru boasts of simple, elegant and minimalistic design. The interiors of the cafe have been designed to focus on the impeccable work of Indian craftsmen. The all-white interiors create a soothing ambience for all its patrons. The bright and airy aura and the adaptive layout sets the tone for the cafe and restaurant.

So, if you’re in Bengaluru and looking for a cup of speciality coffee, Araku is your best bet. 

Cost for two: Rs. 600 (approx.)

Address: 968, 12th Main Rd, HAL 2nd Stage, Doopanahalli, Indiranagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560008

Food recommendation: Brewed coffee, desserts, burger and latte

Best coffee shop in India #10 – Maai, Goa

Image Source: Lifestyleasia.com

The 125-year-old villa in the posh localities of Assagao beautifully captures the grandiosity of Maai, Goa. The rustic interiors with the warm complement the inviting outdoor seating area. The authentic Portuguese-inspired Gaon cuisine takes you back in time. 

Rather than boasting of international and global standard delicacy, Maai distinguishes itself based on a mother’s touch. If you’re craving ‘ghar ka khana’ or missing ‘maa ke hath ka khana’ while in Gao, Maai has the right food for you. Desserts are a special attraction at Maai, Goa. From their classic Bebinca to their fresh, low-fat, eggless gelato, you can find the right end to your sumptuous meals here. 

Cost for two: Rs. 1700 (approx.)

Address: H.No 491, Bouta Waddo, Assagao, Goa 403507

Food recommendation: Mutton, desserts, gelato, and drinks

Best coffee shop in India #11 – Elgin Cafe, Amritsar

Image Source: Deviantart.com

The dark emerald interiors of the Elgin Cafe in Amritsar are designed not only to attract attention but also to command admiration. Unlike many on this list, this designer coffee shop in India caters to Gen-Z, Millennials and Baby Boomers alike. That’s why you’ll find transitional elements in its design as well as its world-class menu. 

The food served here isn’t just fancy for the ‘gram but also takes you on a gastronomical experience of a lifetime. The unexpected medley of authentic Italian with rustic Amritsari dishes is a delightful surprise for the guests. 

Cost for two: Rs. 1500 (approx.)

Address: On left from Ivy Hospital, Ajnala Rd., Inside 2nd Lane, D R Enclave, Bal Schander, Amritsar, Punjab 143001

Food recommendation: Beverages, sushi, grilled chicken lemon caper and pizza

Best coffee shop in India #12 – Fika, Chennai

Image Source: Studio62.design

Fika, Chennai isn’t just a cafe or a coffee shop situated on the bustling streets of Adyar. It is Chennai’s one-stop shop where you can enjoy delectable food, art and entertainment. From organising stand-up comedy shows and open mic nights to theatre and plays, Fika is a place that caters to all your whims and interests. 

Spread over 1000 square feet, Fika has an amphitheatre, bakery, orangery, a cafe and even a community space. The clever use of both indoor and outdoor seating with biophilic designs has created a green haven for its patrons. Check out their backyard which is dubbed as the heart of this aesthetic cafe. 

Cost for two: Rs. 1200 (approx.)

Address: 13, Second Main Rd, Gandhi Nagar, Adyar, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600020

Food recommendation: Mushroom ravioli, tiramisu, cheesecake, and pasta

Best coffee shop in India #13 – Taj Mahal Tea House, Mumbai

Image Source: Hindustantimes.com

This luxurious tea house is a reminder of the Bandra of the past. With vintage colonial furniture, patterned tiles, and a chessboard in the other, the Taj Mahal Tea House has one of the best cafe interiors. Although the place offers wonderful coffee and tea alike, its Iranian tea remains the most popular choice among visitors.

In these times of imagery-driven interiors, experience retro minimalism at one of the best coffee shops in Bandra West.

Cost for two: Rs. 900 (approx.)

Address: Sanatan Pereira Bungalow, 36/A, St John Baptist Rd, Bandra West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400050

Food recommendations: Scrambled vegan breakfast, TMTH Bombay sandwich, Thai Pearl Milk Tea.

Best coffee shop in India #14 – Barometer, Pune

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If you want a posh yet rustic setting in the heart of the city of Pune, you must visit Barometer. The amalgamation of modern and age-old elements sprawling across an area of 2,300 sq. ft. presents a sharp and attractive look. We can’t get enough of the fabricated glass and metal doors that give the café an informal appeal. Also, the interiors display contrasting elements such as the cement walls behind the wooden and brass bar that form the major attraction. So, enjoy delicious food from breakfast to dinner along with smashing cocktails here.

Cost for two: Rs. 1300 (approx.)

Address: Chintaman Pride 12/7, City Pride Road, Pune Maharashtra 411038

Food recommendations: Buldak, Kimchi soup, Sayur Asem (the menu is a delight for K-pop fans)

Best coffee shop in India #15 – Writer’s Café, Chennai

Image Source: Thenewsminute.com

If your date loves books and coffee (we see literature lovers!), Writer’s Café has to be your pick. The café-cum-bookstore shows the harmonious coexistence of two different worlds. Also, this two-floor café boasts pocket-friendly yummy treats and coffee. The minimalist décor, colourful artwork, vertical garden, and alfresco seating will make your outing and later your Instagram pleasant and pretty.

Cost for two: Rs. 600 (approx.)

Address: 127, Peter’s Rd, Gopalapuram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600086 

Food recommendations: Frozen Hot Chocolate, Chicken Schnitzel, Pineapple Pizza, Apple Crumble, and Zucchini Fritters.

Best cafes in India #16 – The Hazelnut Factory, Lucknow

Image Source: Dineout.co.in

THF has been the talk of the town since its launch. The stunning vibe that it creates in all of its branches always keeps people coming back again and again. The use of pastel and matte baby blue in the major part of its interiors amplifies the look of the space. The outdoor seating with beads of string lighting at the first outlet is a favourite hangout spot among the young crowd of the city.

Moreover, the Rohtas Summit outlet of the coffee shop-cum-bakery steals the show with its gorgeous green canopies and vibrant floral arrangements. You can sit here with friends or even alone for hours. The happening ambience and unique food menu will make you fall in love with the place instantly.

Cost for two: Rs. 600 (approx.)

Address: Math, B-192, Aliganj Main Rd, opp. Ram Krishna Marg, Nirala Nagar, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh 226020

Food recommendations: Honey cinnamon latte, Margherita pizza, Mushroom ‘N’ Cheese sandwich.

Best cafes in India #17 – Coffee Culture Reserve, Surat

Image Source: Forindialovers.in

Architects Niel Parekh and Pooja Shah took it upon themselves to turn Gaurav Narang’s vision into reality by creating Coffee Culture Reserve, an urban oasis.  So, if you want to savour your favourite cup of coffee in a beautifully crafted environment, CC Reserve is the place to go.

The 2,350 sq. ft. establishment works as a dedicated coffee house on the ground floor and a restaurant on the top. Also, it has a beautiful garden area that makes the place look spatially fluid and spacious. The glass façade with tropical plants and radiant neon signage on the opposite concrete wall give a cosy lounging experience to the visitors.

Cost for two: Rs. 800 (approx.)

Address: Rahul Raj Mall, 1 Mitul Square Besides, Piplod, Surat, Gujarat 395007

Food recommendations: Pav bhaji cheese fondue, Mushroom rice, and rice boxes.

Ready to explore the best cafes in India?

A cup of good coffee can refresh your mind and soul. Therefore, a coffee shop not only caters to recreational needs but also suffices for a calm and comfortable place for business meetings or personal work. 

In this article, you’ll find cafes that fulfil your different needs. From professional meetings at Starbucks to spending a night laughing over standup comedy at Fika, this list has it all. Moreover, you learn to check out the location, community, decor, cleanliness and most importantly customer service of a cafe to determine its worth.

So, if you’re looking for cool coffee shops near me start exploring these new places ASAP! Explored all these places already? Now check out the best farmhouses in India and plan your next vacation, today.

FAQs

Which are the most popular coffee shops in India?

In terms of sheer scale, variety, and size, Starbucks is one of the most popular coffee shops in India. But that doesn’t mean you can’t find a great cup of joe anywhere else. From pan India cafe chains like Roastery Coffee House and Third Wave Coffee Roasters to local gems like Bar Palladio, Maai, and The Hazelnut Factory, there are numerous options.

Which is the fastest-growing coffee shops chain in India?

Alongside themed cafes, artisanal coffee and roaster chains are one of the fastest growing businesses in India. The number of organized cafe chains has been consistently increasing since 2017, and according to a Statista report, it reached 6200 in 2020. Some of the most popular and fastest-growing chains are Third Wave Coffee Roasters, Social, Blue Tokai and more. 

How to spot cool coffee shops near me?

• Location, 
• Community, 
• Decor, 
• Customer service, 
• Cleanliness

What makes a speciality coffee shop?

Speciality coffee shop is a common term floating around the cafe industry nowadays. It indicates an establishment that exclusively serves coffee that scores 80 or above on the quality scale by the Specialty Coffee Association. They have a distinct and sophisticated scoring system that judges different beans, roasts etc. for quality.

Which city in India has the highest number of aesthetic cafes?

India’s cafe culture is growing at a rapid pace and the number of cafes is also increasing. Cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata and so on have some of the highest number of cafes in the country. Other than that, Dehradun is gradually becoming a hub of cafes with hundreds of cafes mushrooming in every corner of the city. 

What is the best small coffee shop design?

The interior design of coffee shops and cafes is crucial to attract customers. As for smaller cafes, minimalism is a growing trend, the use of muted tones and subtle design elements is always appreciated. Themed cafes are also a crowd favourite. Designers often draw inspiration from pop culture like popular series, movies, music, musicians, and more. 

What are themed coffee shops and restaurants?

A themed cafe is one of the most popular eateries in modern India. These designer cafes and coffee shops adopt a concept and incorporate it into the interior design, menu, culture, community, branding and so on. Nowadays, K-pop or Korean pop culture cafes are on the rise. Other than that, Bollywood, movies, music, and popular web series are also quite common. 

Why are aesthetic cafes so popular in India?

Everything is about social media nowadays. Beautiful cafes with aesthetically pleasing interior designs, stunning locations and Instagram-ready dishes present the perfect opportunity to click the best photos. The laidback vibe and the cool aesthetics of these Instagram-worthy cafes do a great job of attracting young people like Gen-Z and millennials.

*The featured image used in this article is from Pinterest

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