Old San Juan is a charming historic district in Puerto Rico’s capital city, San Juan. It is renowned for its picturesque cobblestone streets, colorful colonial buildings, and vibrant culture.
We recently experienced the local coffee scene in Old San Juan and found the best coffee shops for you to visit on your next trip. We’ll take you on a virtual Old San Juan coffee tour.
Amidst the rich history and captivating landmarks, this vibrant area also offers many opportunities where locals and visitors alike can indulge in their love for caffeine and authentic Puerto Rican coffee.
In this article, we’ll explore 12 of the best coffee shops in Old San Juan and show them on a Google map that you can use for your next trip.
The best part of this Old San Juan coffee shop guide is that they are all totally walkable and can be experienced in a one day itinerary.
Another bonus is that most of these java spots offer delicious food besides the amazing coffee!
So, if you are only in Historic Old San Juan for a day from a cruise port stop (we have a cruise planning guide) or day trip you can still experience the best of authentic Puerto Rican coffee culture in this amazing historic district with our favorite San Juan top coffee cafés.
We love Old San Juan as a pre-cruise or post-cruise extended stay too, but you can definitely experience all of the best coffee spots in a day!
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So, What Makes Puerto Rican Coffee Special?
Here are a few reasons why Puerto Rican coffee is different:
- Climate: Puerto Rico’s tropical climate and high elevation make it an ideal place for growing coffee. The island’s mountainous regions provide the perfect conditions for coffee cultivation, with fertile soil, ample rainfall, and a warm, humid climate.
- Varietals: Puerto Rican coffee is typically grown using Arabica beans, which are known for their complex flavor profiles and lower caffeine content. Within the Arabica family, Puerto Rican coffee farmers typically cultivate varieties like Bourbon and Typica, which produce beans with unique and complex flavors.
- Roasting: Puerto Rican coffee is often roasted to a medium or medium-dark roast, which brings out the bean’s natural sweetness and complex flavor notes. Roasters in Puerto Rico take great care to roast the beans to perfection, using traditional methods that have been passed down through generations.
- Regulations: Puerto Rican coffee is regulated by the Puerto Rico Coffee Regulatory Board, which ensures that all coffee grown and sold on the island meets strict quality standards. This helps to maintain the integrity and consistency, ensuring that it remains among the best coffee in the world.
Table of contents
- So, What Makes Puerto Rican Coffee Special?
- Map of Our Favorite Old San Juan Coffee Shops
- 1. Café 4 Estaciones
- 2. Cafélab Coffee House
- 3. Pilao Bakery Cafe
- 4. Zombie Coffee
- 5. Anita La Mamma del Gelato
- 6. El Cafetal de Borikén
- 7. Caficultura Old San Juan Coffee Shop
- 8. Poet’s Passage
- 9. Cuatro Sombras
- 10. Café Cola’o
- 11. Chocobar Cortés
- 12. La Bombonera
- Hotel Resources for a Longer Old San Juan Visit
- More Great Travel Articles
Map of Our Favorite Old San Juan Coffee Shops
Our Favorite Cafes to Visit in Old San Juan:
1. Café 4 Estaciones
Address: 201 Calle San Francisco, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico
Located in the heart of Old San Juan, Café 4 Estaciones offers an unforgettable coffee experience. With its cozy outdoor atmosphere and a selection of the finest beans from four different coffee-growing regions in Puerto Rico, this café is a must-visit for coffee aficionados.
This was our first stop of the day and we loved it because of the perfect cup of coffee as well as the delicious chicken empanada that we had with it!
There is a fountain nearby where a “living statue” performer sometimes joins the statues on the edge of the fountain! (we missed them)
Make sure to indulge in their artisanal coffee blends, freshly baked pastries, empanadas, and delicious sandwiches while soaking in the lively ambiance of Old San Juan overlooking the fountain nearby.
Our favorite ground Peurto Rican coffee to order at home from Amazon is definitely Cafe Lareño! For K-cups we love to order Yaucono Medium Roast Pods!
2. Cafélab Coffee House
Address: 300 Calle Recinto Sur, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico
Cafelab is a modern, minimalist coffee shop that combines science and art to create an exceptional coffee experience.
The baristas here are true coffee scientists, experimenting with different brewing methods, beans, and roasts to bring out the best flavors in each cup.
Their innovative approach to coffee making has made Cafelab a favorite among coffee enthusiasts. It was our favorite as well! There is also a small shop to pick up some items to take home with you on the way out.
Don’t forget to try their signature drinks like the cold brew or nitro coffee, as well as their mouth-watering pastries and sandwiches.
3. Pilao Bakery Cafe
Address: 205 Calle Sol, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico
Pilao is a hidden gem in Old San Juan, offering an authentic Puerto Rican coffee (and pastry) experience.
This small, family-owned coffee shop serves up traditional coffee drinks made from beans grown and roasted in Puerto Rico.
Their welcoming, laid-back atmosphere makes Pilao the perfect spot to relax, sip on a delicious cup of coffee, and enjoy the vibrant streets of Old San Juan.
Be sure to try their specialty coffee drinks, such as the café con leche or cortadito, for a true taste of Puerto Rican culture.
4. Zombie Coffee
Address: 102 Calle de la Cruz, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico
With a name like Zombie Coffee, you can expect something unique and intriguing.
This quirky coffee shop boasts a fun, zombie-themed atmosphere, complete with eclectic décor and a lively playlist.
We even tried the Tiki Bar and were impressed with the offerings!
They have an extensive menu, which features a wide variety of coffee drinks made from locally sourced beans.
Don’t miss out on their signature Zombie Latte, which is sure to wake you up and keep you going throughout your day in Old San Juan.
5. Anita La Mamma del Gelato
Address: 150 Calle San Justo, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico
Anita is a cozy and welcoming coffee shop. It’s perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Old San Juan.
This charming café offers a diverse selection of coffee drinks, freshly made pastries, and light fare, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely breakfast or afternoon break.
We visited the famous umbrella street (currently with beautiful butterflies) and stopped here on the corner. The cappucino that I had was perfect and the biscuit cake gelato mixed with coquito was my absolute favorite! This one is a must visit!
6. El Cafetal de Borikén
Calle San Francisco #202, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico
Located in a beautifully restored colonial building, El Cafetal de Borikén is a cozy and welcoming coffee shop that embodies the spirit of Puerto Rico.
There were many locals there which is a good sign that you picked a great place!
Their coffee is sourced from local farms, ensuring a fresh and authentic taste with each cup.
Try their signature Borikén Latte, a delicious blend of espresso, steamed milk, and Puerto Rican spices. Pair your coffee with a warm “mallorca” pastry or a traditional “quesito” for a truly satisfying experience.
7. Caficultura Old San Juan Coffee Shop
Address: 401 Calle San Francisco, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico
Nestled in the heart of Old San Juan, Caficultura is a charming café that offers a delightful array of coffee drinks made from beans sourced directly from Puerto Rican farms.
The warm and inviting atmosphere is perfect for enjoying a cup of their famous latte or a classic cortadito.
Don’t forget to sample their delicious pastries, like the Mallorca, a sweet, fluffy bread dusted with powdered sugar.
8. Poet’s Passage
Address: 203 Calle Cruz, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico
Step into the creative world of Poet’s Passage, a unique coffee shop and art gallery that celebrates the spirit of poetry and the arts.
With its cozy atmosphere, this café is an ideal spot to relax with a cup of expertly brewed coffee while surrounded by inspiring artwork and literary works.
We also found some unique handcrafted art that we had to buy an extra bag for to bring home with us! We love it (and the coffee)!
In addition to their delicious coffee offerings, Poet’s Passage also hosts poetry readings and open-mic nights, providing a platform for local and visiting artists to share their talents.
9. Cuatro Sombras
Address: 259 Calle Recinto Sur, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico
Cuatro Sombras is a must-visit for true coffee connoisseurs.
The name “Cuatro Sombras” or “Four Shadows” refers to the four coffee plants that started the owner’s coffee farm.
This café specializes in 100% Puerto Rican Arabica coffee, sourced directly from their family-owned farm in the Yauco region and roasted in house.
The knowledgeable staff will happily guide you through their menu, helping you choose the perfect coffee drink to suit your taste buds.
10. Café Cola’o
Address: 100 Paseo de la Princesa, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico
Located near the picturesque Paseo de la Princesa, Café Cola’o is a delightful spot to enjoy a cup of coffee while taking in the stunning waterfront views.
This small, welcoming café offers a variety of traditional Puerto Rican coffee drinks, as well as a selection of tasty pastries and sandwiches. Be sure to try their signature Cola’o, a rich and creamy coffee drink made with sweetened condensed milk.
11. Chocobar Cortés
Address: 210 Calle San Francisco, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico
For those with a sweet tooth, Chocobar Cortés is a dream come true.
This unique café, owned by the famous Puerto Rican chocolate company Cortés, offers a wide variety of chocolate-infused coffee drinks and delectable desserts.
Savor their signature hot chocolate, made with locally produced chocolate, or indulge in a tempting chocolate espresso martini.
I was there for the chocolate and the coffee was an amazing surprise!
Shop Our Carefully Curated Specialty Reserve Coffee Now!
12. La Bombonera
Address: 259 Calle San Francisco, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico
Established in 1902, La Bombonera is a must-visit coffee shop and one of the oldest establishments in Old San Juan.
This legendary café serves delicious Puerto Rican coffee and delicious mallorca pastries. The vintage atmosphere and exceptional service will transport you back in time, making this a truly memorable experience.
Final Thoughts on the Best Coffee Shops to try in Old San Juan
These are just a few of our favorite coffee shops in Old San Juan that we sampled on our recent visit. It is easy to visit them all because of the close proximity and ease of walking to each one.
Most also have food and some have handcrafted items so you can combine your experiences while on a day trip!
Old San Juan’s vibrant coffee scene offers visitors the chance to experience the rich flavors and traditions of Puerto Rico. Each of these cafés boasts its own unique charm and character, making it worthwhile to explore them all.
Hotel Resources for a Longer Old San Juan Visit
Some great hotel options in Old San Juan:
Hotel El Convento – Lovely hotel in an old Monastery next to San Juan Cathedral
Decanter Hotel – Precious boutique hotel in the center of everything on Calle San José
The Gallery Inn – Quaint and beautiful hotel with ocean views! Only 25 rooms and rooftop wine deck. There are also working art studios!
El Colonial – Charming hotel in the center. It is adults only and they do not offer parking, but it is a 5 star experience!