Nine Irish cafes have been named in a list of Europe’s 100 Best Coffee Shops.
The honorees were celebrated at Europe’s 100 Best Coffee Shops Gala in Brussels, with business owners from all corners of the continent present.
Compiled by The World’s 100 Best Coffee Shops, an online platform, the cafes were assessed based on quality of coffee, barista experience, innovation, food and pastry quality, community and more.
Coffeewerk + Press in Co Galway was the highest-ranked Irish spot, clocking in at an incredibly impressive no. 5 on the list.
Open since 2015, and unmissable in Galway’s Quay St thanks to its sunshine-yellow door, the charming cafe has become a place where coffee and Irish and international design can mingle.
A multi-roaster cafe, they have collaborated with over 80 coffee roasters, both at home and abroad, and also run Artwerk Press, their independent art publishing house.
Posting about the honour, owner Dan Ulrich said that “this one is going to take a few days to sink in”.
“This moment truly belongs to our incredible team and to everyone who has been part of our journey over the years”, he said. “To have nine Irish cafes featured on this list is incredible and speaks volumes about the passion, talent and standards within our industry. We’re exceptionally proud to be part of it.”
Unfiltered Coffee in Dublin came in at no. 16, winning praise for its precise approach to coffee. The writers highlighted its “minimalist space devoted entirely to craft” where “they approach coffee with the philosophy of fine dining — where every variable is intentional, and every detail matters”.
Headed up by Renata and Arvind Khedun – five-time Irish Latte Art Champion and Irish Barista Champion 2018, respectively – it’s not surprising that Dublin’s Brew Lab made it onto the list, clocking in at no. 25. Visitors are invited to delve into the world of coffee with them, learning about the process and the quirks of each of their blends.
Kali in Co Galway was ranked at no. 32, and it’s easy to see why. Designed as a little hideaway in Galway’s Salthill, the cafe is run by husband and wife duo, Enda and Laura, who share their love for coffee after years working in the hospitality industry.
Drogheda’s Evalynn clocked in at no. 41, and was highlighted for alway having a range of “origins and processes to choose from in their cafés, along with a wide variety of bakes and sandwiches for everyone”. They now have three branches to choose from.
At no. 48, Boardwalk in Killarney, Co Kerry, is a bustling kiosk that has become a local favourite thanks to its quality, craftsmanship, and sense of community. They serve coffee roasted on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way alongside house-made baked goods and seasonal offerings.
Conway & Co in Tullamore, Co Offaly, was ranked at no. 69. This modern and elegant spot focuses on innovation, variety and delicious bakes, frequently changing up the menu with the seasons and offering unique treats.
Unmistakeable thanks to its punchy red and pink facade, Lambert’s is located in the heart of Carlow town and came in at no. 78. They offer speciality Filter and espresso-based coffee, as well as delicious home-baked treats.
Finally, at no. 96 is Dublin’s Off Grid. Tucked away in Howth Village, this busy spot offers everything from premium espresso and innovative drinks to pastries, toasties and acai bowls.
Read the full list of European coffee spots here.