These Cusco Coffee Shops Will Have You Coming Back For Seconds
These Cusco Coffee Shops Will Have You Coming Back For Seconds
Over this past spring, I had the pleasure of finding myself wandering around the cobblestoned streets of Cusco, Peru, soaking in a brand new city with loads of history. Similar to anyone over 20, one of my simple pleasures in life is an amazing cup of coffee. Oh, and I don’t mind a pastry on the side either. This, plus my love for any cozy aesthetic decor, makes me a self proclaimed café aficionado. Buckle up to see a few of my favorite cafe finds within Cusco that you have got to try.
Florencia y Fortunata Café
This cafe provides both amazing coffee and has an incredible mission. Their aim is to empower and show off the work of women in the coffee industry, something that oftentimes goes unnoticed. Their beans are all sourced from Peru, and taste absolutely amazing. I paired my cappuccino with some of their banana bread, which was honestly some of the best I’ve had. Close to the Plaza de Armas, this spot is super easy to get to and has great vibes inside. If you like art, there is even a little gallery/shop with local work attached to the cafe.
L’atalier is probably the picture you see when you search pinterest for “Cusco vibes”, and there is definitely as reason. The café is tiny and tucked away within the San Blas neighborhood, famous for its bohemian shops and photogenic streets. While the coffee felt a bit overpriced compared to some other options on my list, going just for the famous balcony views is worth it. It’s not everyday you can make your pinterest board come to life! The café actually doubles as a “concept store”, which is basically another word for boutique in Peru. You will find concept stores all over the San Blas neighborhood, but this was one of the few I saw with coffee as well.
Okay, so this one is a bit of a cheat because it is actually in the nearby town of Pisac rather than Cusco, but it was too great not to share. I stumbled upon Masa Mamita while strolling around Pisac during a day trip. This town became my favorite part of the whole trip, and the coffee just added to the entire ambience. I got my usual latte and sat outside people watching as I sipped on it. Their food also looked amazing, but I was tight on funds that day so had to save a bit. Not only was my coffee amazing, but I was also kept company by one of the many stray dogs that roam the streets of Peru.
I found Carla Pecana walking to the Plaza de Armas from my hostel one morning. It is a bit of a hole in the wall, as you would not necessarily expect it, but once inside it has very cute decor and a lovely peaceful courtyard that gives you a view of some classic Spanish architecture. The owner was so friendly, and it really felt like one of those places where they were just excited to have you as a customer. I love a cute coffee cup, and their mugs were this beautiful organic looking ceramic, perfectly catered to the earthy vibe surrounding Cusco. I also had a piece of their berry cake, which was so lovely. After looking at more pictures of all their baked goods on Instagram, I wish I could go back for more.
While the café is quite small, I would absolutely check it out if you are close by. Afterwards you can go and explore the souvenir shop around the corner, which actually has an upstairs where you can see the courtyard from the second level and look at some stunning antiques and local goodies.
You can check out more about Carla Pecana here. I have also inserted a picture of amazing courtyard, here form the view of the antique store but it is just as lovely from below.
