There is something magical about sinking into the pages of a good book while sipping a cup of hot coffee or tea. For the literary traveler, there is no better place than a cozy bookstore café where you can immerse yourself in the world of literature while enjoying a hot drink and delicious food.
These havens of relaxation and inspiration provide an intimate setting to browse the shelves of fascinating stories, meet fellow bookworms, and attend exciting literary events.
In this article, we take you on a tour of 10 of the most beautiful bookstore cafés in the world, each offering a unique and immersive experience that will make any literary traveler feel right at home.
1. Shakespeare Company, Paris, France
Situated in the heart of Paris, a stone's throw from Notre Dame Cathedral, the Shakespeare Company is a literary institution. This legendary English-language bookstore has been a popular meeting place for writers, artists, and intellectuals since it opened in 1951.
With its rustic charm, a maze of bookshelves, and intimate reading nooks, it's no wonder this iconic spot has attracted the likes of Ernest Hemingway, James Joyce, and F. Scott Fitzgerald.
The adjacent café, adorned with green and white striped awnings, offers a delicious selection of organic coffees, teas, and freshly baked pastries – the perfect accompaniment for an afternoon browsing the shelves of this literary haven.
2. El Pendulo, Mexico City, Mexico
El Pendulo is a beautiful bookstore café in the bustling metropolis of Mexico City. With lush greenery, wooden shelving, and a soothing ambiance, this delightful space feels like an oasis of calm amidst the chaos of the city.
El Pendulo's Café serves gourmet cuisine, including sandwiches, salads, and baked goods. The extensive drinks menu offers a variety of coffee and tea options, as well as wine, beer, and cocktails.
Catching a live jazz band while you dine is okay, as this cultural center hosts regular events to add to your literary experience.
3. Atlantis Books, Santorini, Greece
Perched on a cliff in the picturesque village of Oia in Santorini, Atlantis Books is a charming white bookstore with stunning views of the Aegean Sea. Founded in 2004 by friends, this beautiful resort has a great selection of books in various languages, including Greek, English, French, and Spanish.
The quaint Terrace Café is the perfect place to enjoy a refreshing drink. At the same time, you can enjoy the breathtaking environment and immerse yourself in the fascinating world of literature.
4. The Book Lounge, Cape Town, South Africa
Located in the vibrant city of Cape Town, The Book Lounge is an intimate retreat for bibliophiles and coffee lovers. This independent bookstore offers an eclectic mix of books, highlighting local authors and South African literature.
The cozy coffee area with comfortable seating creates an intimate place to enjoy coffee, tea, or hot chocolate while browsing the various books.
Book Lounge hosts regular author events and book launches, creating a lively atmosphere for literary travelers and local book lovers alike.
5. Livraria Lello, Porto, Portugal
Considered one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, Porto's Livraria Lello is a must-see for every literary traveler. With its intricate millwork, stained-glass ceiling, and stunning central staircase, this architectural gem has captivated visitors since 1906.
Although primarily a bookstore, Livraria Lello has a charming coffee bar where you can enjoy espresso and traditional Portuguese pastries while admiring the incredible surroundings and browsing the extensive book collection.
6. Wild Detectives, Dallas, Texas, USA
Wild Detectives is a unique combination of a bookstore, café, and bar in the historic Oak Cliff neighborhood of Dallas, Texas. The warm, inviting atmosphere is perfect for curling up with a good book and coffee or relaxing with a glass of wine or craft beer.
The store's curated collection includes a range of fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and graphic novels, emphasizing independent publishers and local authors. Regular events such as book clubs, poetry readings, and live music make Wild Detectives a vibrant center for the local literary scene.
7. Cafébrería El Péndulo, Mexico City, Mexico
Cafebrería El Péndulo is a pleasant bookstore in the heart of Mexico City. Filled with natural light, wooden bookshelves, and lush greenery, the two-story building creates an oasis of calm amid a busy city.
The café serves a variety of coffees, teas, and delicacies, making it the ideal place for a leisurely breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Regular events, including author presentations and live music, add to the charm of Cafebrería El Péndulo.
8. Books for Cooks, Melbourne, Australia
Books for Cooks in Melbourne is a culinary haven for foodies and book lovers. This specialty bookstore and café has an extensive collection of cookbooks, food literature, and wine literature.
The on-site Test Kitchen offers a delicious range of homemade treats, teas, and coffees, which you can enjoy while browsing the delightful titles on display.
Books for Cooks also hosts regular events, including cookbook releases, autograph sessions, and cooking demonstrations, making it a must-see for culinary enthusiasts.
9. Daunt Books, London, UK
In London's charming Marylebone borough, Daunt Books is an Edwardian gem with beautiful stained glass ceilings, oak galleries, and stunning arched windows.
Specializing in travel literature, this independent bookstore offers a wide selection of fiction, non-fiction, and children's books.
The Little Cafe at Daunt Books is a cozy place to enjoy tea or coffee and a delicious meal while exploring literary treasures.
10. The Last Bookstore, Los Angeles, California, USA
Housed in a historic bank building in downtown Los Angeles, The Last Bookstore is a stunning 22,000-square-foot literary wonderland. With its tall shelves, whimsical book installations, and maze-like layout, this bookstore and café is a haven for book lovers and artists alike.
The on-site café serves a variety of coffees, teas, and snacks, perfect for your literary adventures. Take advantage of the famous Book Tunnel and the Art and Rarity Book Annex as you explore the wide range of new and used titles.
The Last Bookstore regularly hosts author readings, live music, and art performances, ensuring an engaging and inspiring experience for all visitors.
Diploma:
These ten cozy bookstore cafés are the stuff of a true literary traveler's dream. They represent an inspiring mix of history, culture, and creativity in stunning settings worldwide. Each location offers a treasure trove of books, a warm and welcoming atmosphere, great food and drink, and a vibrant community of book lovers.
Embark on a journey to discover these fascinating destinations, sure to satisfy your literary appetite and leave you with unforgettable memories and experiences. So don't hesitate - let your love of literature guide you to these extraordinary havens and enjoy the magic that awaits!
