Hamburg Cafe Guide – 6 Cafes to visit

Hamburg’s café scene is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself. Whether you’re a coffee or tea lover, or just looking for a cozy spot to relax, these six cafés offer something for everyone. From the stylish and design-focused Belum Coffee & Bar to the community-oriented Teikei Cafe, each venue provides a unique experience reflecting Hamburg’s rich cultural diversity. Here is our Hamburg Café Guide with some of the best cafés you shouldn’t miss on your next visit to Hamburg.

Stepping into Lowinsky’s NY Coffee & Tea feels like entering a cozy café in the heart of New York City. The tasteful decor blends industrial chic with homely elements, creating an inviting atmosphere that transports you to a different world. The café is known for its excellent coffee and an impressive selection of high-quality teas, with a particular emphasis on their popular matcha drinks. The baristas at Lowinsky’s are skilled in their craft, ensuring every beverage is made to perfection.

The café offers fresh bagels and sandwiches for breakfast or brunch, with various toppings to suit all tastes. The bagels are a standout feature, freshly baked and generously filled with an array of delicious ingredients. For dessert, try the banana bread or cookies, which are fresh and of high quality, adding a sweet touch to your visit. Lowinsky’s also provides a selection of magazines and books, allowing guests to relax and unwind while enjoying their drinks. Located on Lehmweg in Hoheluft-Ost, Lowinsky’s is a must-visit for coffee enthusiasts looking for an authentic New York-style café experience in Hamburg.

Lowinsky’s NY Coffee & Tea
Lehmweg 36,
20251 Hamburg 
@lowinskys_
Website

Instinct Coffee, near the Hamburg Messehallen on Rentzelstraße, provides a serene and stylish setting, ideal for a relaxing coffee break or a focused study session. The modern furnishings and bright, friendly atmosphere make you feel at home immediately. The café’s minimalist design, combined with its warm and inviting environment, makes it a perfect spot to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Offering an all-day brunch with a great selection of savory and sweet dishes such as Shakshuka, Turkish Egg Delight, sourdough toasts, pancakes, and porridge, the menu is a treat for the taste buds. Each dish is prepared with fresh ingredients and presented beautifully, making every meal a delightful experience. The impressive variety of pastries and cakes invites you to try something new each time. Whether you’re in the mood for a light snack or a hearty meal, Instinct Coffee has something for everyone. The coffee is excellent, brewed to perfection and served with a smile. The staff is extremely courteous and always ready to assist, enhancing the overall experience. The friendly and relaxed environment makes Instinct Coffee the perfect place to escape everyday stress and enjoy a cozy time.

Café Johanna feels like a large, cozy living room with its rustic wooden furniture and inviting seating areas. The lovingly decorated interior contributes to a warm and comfortable atmosphere that makes you feel right at home. The café is renowned for its hearty breakfasts and delicious baked goods, making it a favorite among locals. The rustic charm of Café Johanna, combined with its welcoming ambiance, makes it a special place to relax and unwind.

Whether for a morning coffee or a leisurely brunch, Café Johanna offers a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of city life. The menu features a variety of breakfast dishes, each made with high-quality ingredients and a touch of love. Guests can also purchase clothing, hats, or packaged coffee, adding an element of discovery to each visit. This combination of café and small shop makes Café Johanna a unique and charming spot in Hamburg. The warm and friendly service, along with the delicious food and drink options, ensures that every visit to Café Johanna is a memorable one.

Café Johanna
Venusberg 26,
20459 Hamburg 
@cafejohanna 
Website

Milch

Milch, located in the picturesque Portuguese Quarter near the Landungsbrücken U-Bahn station, stands out with its cozy atmosphere and charming tiled facade. The café roasts its coffee on-site, with a large roasting machine in the center adding to the vibe. The aroma of freshly roasted coffee beans fills the air, creating a welcoming and inviting atmosphere.

In addition to excellent coffee, there’s a variety of pastries, with the freshly baked Pastel de Nata being a must-try. These Portuguese custard tarts are a specialty at Milch, known for their perfect balance of crispy pastry and creamy filling. The selection of iced coffees and various matcha drinks ensures there’s something for every taste. Whether you prefer a classic espresso or a refreshing iced matcha latte, Milch has you covered. The friendly staff are always ready to make recommendations and ensure you have a pleasant experience. Milch is the perfect spot to relax with a good book or chat with friends over a delicious piece of cake. The combination of high-quality coffee, delicious pastries, and a cozy atmosphere makes Milch a standout café in Hamburg.

Teikei Café

Teikei Café in Sternschanze is more than just a place to get coffee – it’s a movement. The café operates on a unique community-supported agriculture model, focusing on sustainability and fair trade. This commitment to ethical practices is evident in every aspect of Teikei Café, from the sourcing of ingredients to the operation of the business.

The menu features organic and regional products, from freshly brewed coffee to healthy snacks and natural wine. The selection of dishes and drinks is carefully curated to align with the café’s sustainable values. Each item is made with care, ensuring that guests can enjoy their meal knowing it has been prepared ethically. The relaxed, unconventional atmosphere makes Teikei Café a popular spot for environmentally conscious guests. The décor is simple yet cozy, creating a space where people can come together to enjoy good food and good company. It’s a great place to meet like-minded people and enjoy ethically sourced coffee. The friendly staff are knowledgeable about the café’s mission and are always happy to share information and engage in meaningful conversations with guests.

Teikei Café
Marktstraße 25,
20357 Hamburg 
@teikeicafe
Website

Belum Coffeebar

For those who enjoy day drinking, there’s a curated selection of wines, beers, and other drinks. The excellent coffee, prepared with great care, is a highlight of Belum Coffeebar. Sourced from high-quality beans and brewed to perfection, each cup offers a satisfying and rich coffee experience. The friendly and attentive staff enhance the overall experience with their prompt and courteous service. The relaxed yet lively ambiance, complemented by the right music, makes Belum the perfect spot for a cozy Sunday. Whether you’re catching up with friends or enjoying some alone time with a book, Belum Coffeebar provides the ideal setting.

Belum Coffeebar
Geschwister-Scholl-Str. 32
20251 Hamburg 
@belum.coffeebar
Website

Next time you’re searching for a café in Hamburg, these six options provide a fantastic selection that is definitely worth a visit. Whether you’re looking for a quiet study session, a cozy brunch, or just a great cup of coffee, you’ll find what you need in Hamburg. Each of these cafés offers a unique experience, reflecting Hamburg’s rich cultural diversity and vibrant atmosphere. 

From the stylish ambiance of Belum Coffee & Bar to the sustainable practices of Teikei Cafe, there’s something for everyone. Explore the diverse offerings and enjoy the relaxing ambiance these cafés have to offer. With their unique charm and exceptional quality, these six cafés truly represent the best of Hamburg’s coffee scene. So, take your time to visit them and immerse yourself in the delightful experiences they offer and stay tuned for the second part of the Hamburg Café Guide