Where to Get the Best Coffee in Xela, Guatemala

Patrick Foot

Coffee is a hugely important part of Guatemala’s culture and economy. The country’s fertile highlands are home to some of its biggest and best coffee plantations, which makes Xela an excellent city to sample some of the freshest coffee that the country has to offer. If you’re staying in the city and find yourself in need of a caffeine fix, here’s where you should go.

Habitual Coffee Brew

Cafe, Coffee Shop, Tea

Coffee Plant
© Nathan Leibel / Wikicommons

Habitual Coffee Brew should be the first port of call for anyone who really cares about their coffee. The beans are sourced from a plantation near Huehuetenango, a couple of hours drive away from Xela — and the drinks are all lovingly prepared. Take a chance to chat to the staff, who enjoy nothing more than sharing all things coffee to fellow enthusiasts. Well, perhaps except actually drinking the stuff.

Mandarina

Bakery, Coffee Shop, Cafe, Dessert

Xela is a home to a sizable English-speaking community, mostly made up of language students and tutors, plus some volunteers. Mandarina is a hugely popular spot among the city’s expats, and it isn’t hard to see why. The coffee is top notch, however you take it. And it’s best washed down with one of the cafe’s amazing sweet treats. Try the carrot cake muffin — you won’t regret it.

Baviera Cafe

Cafe, Coffee Shop, Central American

Located just off the Parque Central, Baviera Cafe is an excellent spot to relax while sampling some of the best coffee in the city. You’ll find a strong selection of brews here, all done well. It isn’t the place to go to sample the latest in hipster coffee trends, but if you’re looking for a solid cup then this is a great option. You’ll also find a selection of snacks, alongside some larger dishes.

Ciudad de la Imaginación

Cafe, Coffee Shop, Tea

Santiaguito outside Xela
© nmarritz / Wikicommons

A cafe, bookshop, art gallery and cultural centre all rolled into one, Ciudad de la Imaginación has a lot going for it. That doesn’t mean that they’ve skimped on the coffee, though, with a range of quality brews. Plus, they have regular events that are all about promoting and enriching the local art scene. Be sure to check out some of the sculpture, paintings or photography on display.

Hot Cold Coffee

Coffee Shop, Tea

Located on a quiet street just up the hill from the Parque Central, Hot Cold Coffee takes its brewing very seriously indeed. As well as the lattes, cappuccinos and espressos that are done well throughout the city, you can sample innovative brewing techniques including chemex, aeropress and v60. It’s a popular spot with locals and tourists alike.

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