9 Must-Visit Specialty Cafes in Sofia [Updated for 2026]

As someone who's spent years exploring Sofia's evolving coffee culture, I can confidently say the Bulgarian capital has become a serious destination for specialty coffee lovers.

What started as a handful of pioneering roasters back in 2014 has blossomed into a thriving scene with over 30 third-wave cafes scattered across the city center.

From award-winning roasters to cozy brunch spots serving Dabov beans, here's my curated guide to the nine specialty cafes you absolutely cannot miss.

9 Best Specialty Cafes in Sofia

#1. Coffee Syndicate – Award-Winning Eclairs & Industrial Vibes

[PHOTO SPOT: Interior shot of Coffee Syndicate] Alt text: Coffee Syndicate industrial interior

Coffee Syndicate is arguably my favourite coffee place in Sofia – in the span of 12 days spent in the city, I went back at least 6 times! There's something magnetic about this place, and it's not just the perfectly pulled shots of Friedhats coffee.

The cafe earned the title of Best Specialty Coffee in Bulgaria by European Coffee Trip, and once you step inside, you'll understand why. The industrial-chic interior features recycled materials and minimalist design that's become an Instagram favorite among visitors.

What sets Coffee Syndicate apart is their inventive drink menu. They've got amazing coffee here, as well as really inventive drinks like Espresso Tonics with rosemary and seasonal specials that rotate throughout the year. But the real showstopper? Their handmade eclairs, crafted upstairs in their own kitchen, come in flavors like pear-lavender and matcha that'll have you ordering seconds.

The location couldn't be better – situated on the "yellow brick road" leading to Saint Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, it's the perfect pit-stop during sightseeing. They now have a second outpost as well, so you've got options.

• Address: Moskovska St 3, 1000 Sofia Center

• Hours: Mon-Fri 8AM-8PM, Sat-Sun 10AM-8PM

• Google Maps: Coffee Syndicate

#2. Dabov Specialty Coffee – The Godfather of Bulgarian Specialty Coffee

[PHOTO SPOT: Coffee tasting at Dabov] Alt text: Dabov coffee tasting setup

Dabov Specialty Coffee was founded by five-time Cup of Excellence judge Jordan Dabov, who has been working to bring the world's best coffee to Bulgaria since 2008. If there's a single name synonymous with specialty coffee in Sofia, it's Dabov.

They sell roasted beans to over 100 shops in Sofia and have expanded internationally to Madrid, Athens, Prague, and Skopje. Walking into any Dabov location feels like entering a coffee laboratory – serious equipment, knowledgeable baristas, and an almost religious reverence for the bean.

The exciting world of specialty coffee is well-represented in Sofia thanks to Jordan Dabov's never-ending passion for the best cup of coffee you can possibly find. The flagship location on Lyuben Karavelov offers cupping sessions if you want to take your coffee knowledge to the next level. The Five Corners location features a charming second floor where you can enjoy your espresso accompanied by soft jazz music.

Decaf lovers will be pleased to know they can try decaffeinated coffee prepared with the famous Swiss Water method – it's 100% chemical-free.

• Address: ul. Lyuben Karavelov 58 (flagship); Hristo Botev Blvd 1 (Five Corners); ul. Angel Kanchev 28

• Hours: Mon-Fri 9AM-7PM, Sat-Sun 10AM-6PM (varies by location)

• Google Maps: Dabov Specialty Coffee

#3. Chucky's Coffee House – Sofia's Original Craft Coffee Pioneer

[PHOTO SPOT: Espresso preparation at Chucky's] Alt text: Chucky's barista crafting espresso

Chucky's Coffee & Culture prides itself on being the first craft coffee shop in Sofia. Owner Ivan Chavdarov returned from eight years working in coffee in Athens to open this cozy spot near Vitosha Boulevard in 2014. The shop started as an experiment – something Chavdarov never saw succeeding. He remembers thinking he'd be forced to close it in three to six months. To his pleasant surprise, it took off.

If you are really demanding about your coffee, Chucky's is the place. You'll hardly find better baristas in town, and the quality of the coffee – carefully selected from the finest manufacturers and regions from around the world – makes each visit a little caffeinated celebration.

The atmosphere here is decidedly less hipster than some of Sofia's newer spots – think cozy neighborhood cafe vibes with English-speaking staff who genuinely love educating customers about coffee. Using educational workshops to introduce a new breed of customers to craft coffee, the shop quickly became a success.

What I appreciate most is their pure focus on coffee. No fancy brunch menu, no distractions – just exceptional beans and the expertise to brew them properly.

• Address: ul. Hristo Belchev 29, 1000 Sofia

• Hours: Mon-Fri 9AM-8PM, Sat-Sun 10AM-7PM

• Google Maps: Chucky's Coffee House

#4. Rainbow Factory (Fabrika Daga) – Best Brunch Meets Specialty Coffee

[PHOTO SPOT: Brunch spread at Rainbow Factory] Alt text: Rainbow Factory brunch plate

Fabrika Daga, "Rainbow Factory" in English, also broke onto the craft scene in 2014. The name joins two concepts: "Daga," meaning rainbow (a nod to the beloved 1979–1992 Bulgarian comix magazine of the same name), and "Fabrika" emphasizing their "we-make-it-ourselves-mindset."

Repeatedly named the "Best Brunch Place" in Sofia, Rainbow Factory proves you can have both exceptional coffee and phenomenal food. The brunch menu is extensive and varied, with dishes from Panagyur-style eggs and avocado toast, to sandwiches, salads and lovely sweet treats. The traditional Bulgarian mekitsi (fried dough) served with white cheese and homemade jam is a must-try.

As for the coffee, it's sourced from Dabov. The flat whites are excellent, and they also offer hand-brewed filter coffees. The exposed-brick walls and L-shaped bar create a buzzy atmosphere that gets packed on weekends – arrive early or prepare to wait.

The coffee is among the best in the city, so even if you don't feel like eating, you have a valid reason to visit them. Pro tip: they now have two locations, with the second near Doctors' Garden.

• Address: ul. Veslets 10 (original); ul. Sheinovo 13B (second location)

• Hours: Mon-Fri 8AM-6PM, Sat-Sun 9AM-6PM

• Google Maps: Rainbow Factory

#5. Drekka – Instagrammable Coffee & Concept Store

[PHOTO SPOT: Blue and white Drekka interior] Alt text: Drekka minimalist blue interior

The coolest coffee spot in Sofia? It's certainly the most Instagrammable. Drekka is a hip third-wave coffee store that sells artisan goods and features rotating guest coffee roasters.

Located in the residential Oborishte neighborhood, Drekka looks a bit like a coffee pop-up cafe (but it's actually a permanent fixture). The blue and white design has become iconic, and the shop functions as both a cafe and a retail destination for coffee and tea accessories.

This cafe serves really great specialty coffee drinks, as well as fancier teas in case you're more of a tea person. They source beans from top European roasters like The Barn and Taf, and their cold brew tonic is legendary among Sofia's coffee cognoscenti.

Note that Tuesday and Wednesday are days off, so plan accordingly. The limited hours make this feel like an exclusive coffee experience – which, honestly, it is.

• Address: ul. Marin Drinov 23, 1504 Sofia

• Hours: Mon 9AM-5PM, Thu-Fri 9AM-5PM, Sat-Sun 10AM-6PM (Closed Tue-Wed)

• Google Maps: Drekka Coffee

#6. Altruist – Urban Coffee Shop & Bakery for Early Birds

[PHOTO SPOT: Fresh pastries display at Altruist] Alt text: Altruist bakery pastry selection

"This place is super classy and the croissant is super fresh and good! The cappuccino is the best in Sofia – and as an Italian, believe me!" That's high praise from a reviewer who knows their coffee.

One of the best points is that Altruist opens at 7AM, which is not common in Sofia where most cafes don't open until 10am. For early risers or those with morning flights, Altruist is a godsend.

Altruist is an urban cafe offering premium quality Arabica espresso. They also make delicious cakes under the brand "Neshto Sladko," and in the bakery located at the back of the coffee shop, the staff creates magical pastries.

Try their version of Bulgarian banitsa filled with white cheese and egg – it's exceptional. The modern, bright interior with big windows and their charming backyard garden (open in warmer months) make this a perfect spot for a leisurely morning.

• Address: ul. Ekzarh Yosif 49, 1000 Sofia

• Hours: Daily 7AM-7:30PM

• Google Maps: Altruist Urban Cafe

#7. Better Specialty Coffee – Non-Alcoholic Coffee Cocktails

[PHOTO SPOT: Coffee cocktail at Better] Alt text: Better coffee cocktail drink

"The best specialty coffee in Sofia – and believe me, I tried a lot of them! They just serve coffee, not juices and beer and cakes. The owner is a true coffee lover and a professional!"

This relatively new addition to Sofia's scene has quickly made a name for itself. The coffee menu started out with just espresso-based drinks and single-origin V60 pourovers but now includes various iced coffees and – excitingly – a full menu of non-alcoholic coffee cocktails. Yes please to the Cold Brew Old Fashioned!

What makes Better truly special is the personal touch. Owner Nikolay makes his own nut milks with nuts sourced from southern Bulgaria (in the "nut belt"), and the hazelnut milk is incredibly creamy. He's passionate about starting conversations about coffee and local culture, making this feel less like a transaction and more like visiting a friend.

The space is small but cozy, with complimentary touches like water and cookies that add to the pleasant experience.

• Address: ul. Neofit Rilski 59, 1000 Sofia

• Hours: Mon-Fri 9AM-6PM, Sat-Sun 10AM-6PM

• Google Maps: Better Specialty Coffee

#8. Bloom Cafe – Local Roaster Spotlight

[PHOTO SPOT: Bloom Cafe exterior] Alt text: Bloom Cafe storefront Sofia

Another quaint little cafe that serves amazing specialty grade coffee is Bloom Specialty Coffee, located in the north of the city centre. It opens early at 8AM, which I really appreciate.

What makes Bloom stand out is their commitment to showcasing local Bulgarian roasters. The coffee they serve is from Bug Coffee, a specialty coffee roaster located right in Sofia. This is your chance to taste truly local specialty coffee that you won't find outside Bulgaria.

Bloom Cafe earned a 2025 WINNER designation from European Coffee Trip, cementing its status as one of the city's rising stars. They serve specialty coffee with homemade cake and cookies.

The cafe maintains a cozy, neighborhood feel without the pretension that sometimes accompanies specialty coffee shops. Perfect for those who want quality without attitude.

• Address: ul. Veslets 23, 1000 Sofia

• Hours: Mon-Fri 8AM-6PM, Sat-Sun 9AM-6PM

• Google Maps: Bloom Cafe Sofia

#9. Martines Specialty Coffee Shop & Roastery – Family Tradition Since 2008

[PHOTO SPOT: Coffee beans and equipment at Martines] Alt text: Martines roastery coffee beans

Martines is a family business specialised in roasting coffee. In 2022, they decided to open their own specialty coffee shop to provide clients with the taste they're looking for and help them discover what they like.

Located directly across from Chucky's on Hristo Belchev Street, Martines offers a completely different experience. It's a cute little cafe that serves top-notch specialty coffee. I also liked their more elaborate coffee drinks, such as infused Cold Brews with different syrups – I had one with Elderflower syrup and it was delicious.

They serve fresh roasted specialty coffee in the best possible way, thanks to their SCA-certified barista and roaster. The emphasis on education and sustainability sets them apart. As they say, working with specialty coffee is not only about high quality product – it's also about respecting and valuing the job of the farmers.

The space is intimate and focused – come for the coffee knowledge, stay for the exceptional espresso.

• Address: ul. Hristo Belchev 1A, 1000 Sofia

• Hours: Mon-Fri 9AM-6PM, Sat-Sun 10AM-6PM

• Google Maps: Martines Specialty Coffee

FAQ

What is specialty coffee and how is it different from regular coffee?

Specialty coffee refers to the highest quality coffee beans that score 80 points or above on a 100-point scale by certified Q graders. Unlike mass-produced coffee, specialty beans are carefully sourced, often from single origins, and roasted in small batches to highlight unique flavor profiles. Most cafes in this guide work directly with farmers or purchase from roasters who prioritize transparency and quality throughout the supply chain.

Do Sofia cafes accept card payments?

Yes, most specialty cafes in Sofia accept credit and debit cards. However, smaller neighborhood spots might occasionally have cash-only days when their machines are down. It's always wise to carry some cash with you just in case. Generally speaking, most places in Sofia accept card these days, but having around €10-20 in local currency (Bulgarian Lev) is a good backup.

What's the average price for a specialty coffee in Sofia?

Expect to pay around €2-3 for an espresso and €3-4 for a flat white or latte at specialty cafes. Filter coffee and specialty drinks like espresso tonics run €4-5. Compared to Western European capitals, Sofia offers exceptional value – you're getting world-class coffee at remarkably affordable prices.

Are Sofia baristas English-speaking?

All of the venues on this list accept credit card payments and have at least some staff who speak English. Sofia's specialty coffee scene caters heavily to international visitors and digital nomads, so language barriers are rarely an issue. That said, learning "kafe" (coffee) and "blagodarya" (thank you) will always earn you smiles.

What time do coffee shops open in Sofia?

Most specialty cafes open between 8AM-10AM on weekdays and 9AM-10AM on weekends. It's not so common to find cafes open at 7AM in Sofia – usually the cafes open at 10am, making Altruist a notable exception for early birds.

Can I work from specialty cafes in Sofia?

Yes! Sofia has embraced laptop-friendly cafe culture. Coffee Syndicate, Drekka, and Martines all offer good WiFi and power outlets. However, some spots like Rainbow Factory get extremely busy during brunch hours, so be mindful of taking up tables during peak times. The Steps and Social Cafe are specifically designed for coworking if you need extended laptop time.

What's the best cafe for coffee purists?

Better Specialty Coffee just serves coffee – not juices and beer and cakes, making it ideal for purists who want zero distractions. Chucky's and Dabov also maintain a strong focus on the coffee itself rather than food menus.

Is tipping expected at Sofia cafes?

Tipping isn't mandatory but appreciated. Rounding up your bill or leaving 10% for exceptional service is customary. Many specialty cafes have tip jars near the register if you want to show appreciation for great barista work.

How do I get around Sofia to visit these cafes?

Most cafes on this list are walkable within the city center. For spots slightly further out like Drekka, Sofia's metro system is efficient and affordable. There's no Uber in Sofia – use local taxi apps like Taxi Me or Yellow Taxi to avoid tourist scam prices from street taxis.

When is Sofia Coffee Week?

Sofia Coffee Week typically takes place in spring (April-May). It's a fantastic time to visit if you want to experience special events, cupping sessions, and meet roasters from across Bulgaria. Check European Coffee Trip or local cafe Instagram pages for exact dates.

Conclusion

Sofia's specialty coffee scene has matured into something truly remarkable. From the pioneering spirit of Dabov and Chucky's to the innovative drinks at Coffee Syndicate and Better, there's a cafe for every coffee lover's preference. What strikes me most is how accessible quality coffee has become here – you don't need a trust fund to enjoy competition-worthy espresso. Whether you're fueling up for a morning hike on Vitosha Mountain or winding down after exploring Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, these nine cafes represent the best Sofia has to offer.