Best Specialty Coffee in Bologna
Country: Italy (9 cafés)
Updated February 2026
Bologna offers a growing selection of specialty coffee spots tucked within its historic porticos. You can find quality brews at Aroma Coffee, Melée café, and various locations of Forno Brisa including Forno Brisa Bolognina, Forno Brisa Castiglione, Forno Brisa San Felice, Forno Brisa San Lazzaro, and Forno Brisa Laura Bassi. Other options for a coffee break include BURŌ and Allegra.
While traditional Italian espresso culture remains common, many local shops now offer single-origin beans and hand-drip methods. It is helpful to check opening hours in advance, as some specialty locations operate on shorter schedules than traditional bars.
Cafés
Of 9 cafés, 9 serve filter coffee and 9 are dog-friendly.
Top rated Aroma Coffee
Via Porta Nova 12, 40123 Bologna, Italy
Aroma Coffee is a specialty shop located on Via Porta Nova in Bologna. The menu features espresso, filter coffee, and cold brew options alongside breakfast items like crepes and pastries. Visitors often mention the staff is friendly and knowledgeable about their craft. The space includes outdoor seating and is dog friendly.
Melée café
Via Francesco Zanardi 9/C, 40131 Bologna, Italy
Melée café is a specialty coffee shop located near the train station in Bologna. Visitors consistently praise the friendly staff and the quality of their espresso and filter coffee. The menu includes breakfast and lunch options, with several vegan choices available. You can sit outside or work from your laptop, though the space often fills up quickly.
Forno Brisa Bolognina
Via Nicolò dall'Arca, 16, 40129 Bologna, Italy
Forno Brisa Bolognina is a bakery and cafe located in Bologna. Visitors frequently praise the friendly staff and the variety of coffee roasts available. The menu features fresh pastries alongside vegan options like focaccia and pizza. You can find outdoor seating and wifi if you plan to work or stay for a while. The space can get crowded, so consider timing your visit to avoid the busiest periods.
Forno Brisa Castiglione
Via Castiglione, 43b, 40124 Bologna, Italy
Forno Brisa on Via Castiglione is a bakery that roasts its own coffee. Visitors frequently praise the friendly staff and the variety of pastries, including sourdough options and cornetti. You can order espresso, filter coffee, or cold brew alongside pizza and focaccia. The space offers outdoor seating and remains laptop-friendly for those working during the day. They also provide several clearly labeled vegan options.
Forno Brisa San Felice
Via S. Felice, 91a, 40122 Bologna, Italy
Forno Brisa San Felice is a bakery and coffee shop located on Via San Felice. The menu features espresso, filter coffee, and a variety of sourdough breads. Visitors often praise the selection of vegan pastries and the friendly staff. The space offers free wifi and outdoor seating, making it a practical spot to work or eat.
Forno Brisa San Lazzaro
Via Carlo Jussi, 18, 40068 Bologna, Italy
Forno Brisa San Lazzaro is a bakery located in Bologna. Visitors often mention the friendly and attentive staff. The menu includes espresso, filter coffee, and various vegan options. You can find seating in the cozy mezzanine area or the outdoor space. Regulars frequently praise the quality of the pizzas, focaccias, and pastries.
Forno Brisa Laura Bassi
Via Laura Bassi Veratti 29b, 40137 Bologna, Italy
Forno Brisa Laura Bassi is a bakery and specialty coffee shop in Bologna. Visitors can order espresso and filter coffee alongside a selection of sweet and savory pastries. The space is laptop friendly and offers both wifi and outdoor seating. Regulars often mention the friendly staff and the quality of the cornetti. Some customers note that prices are higher than at traditional local cafes.
BURŌ
Via Sant'Isaia, 57d, 40122 Bologna, Italy
BURŌ is a specialty coffee shop located in Bologna. The owners serve as both baristas and chefs, offering espresso, filter coffee, and light meals like porridge and cinnamon buns. Visitors often mention the friendly service and the quiet, cozy atmosphere. The space is laptop friendly with available wifi, making it a common choice for those looking to work. Dogs are also welcome in the shop.
Allegra
Via Galliera, 11c, 40121 Bologna, Italy
Allegra is a coffee shop and restaurant located on Via Galliera in Bologna. The menu features espresso and filter coffee alongside a variety of pastries and lunch options. Visitors often praise the croissants and note that the space is dog-friendly. You can expect a wait for table service, as the cafe fills up quickly during busy hours. Outdoor seating and vegan milk options are available for guests.
Frequently asked questions
Where can I find specialty coffee in the city center?
Several options are located within the historic walls, including Aroma Coffee and BURŌ. You will also find multiple Forno Brisa locations scattered throughout the area.
Are there places to work with a laptop?
BURŌ is designed to accommodate students and remote workers who need a functional space. It offers a friendly environment for those looking to be productive while having a coffee.
Can I buy coffee beans to take home?
Yes, Forno Brisa operates as a roaster and sells bags of coffee at their various bakery locations. Aroma Coffee is another reliable spot to source beans.
Do cafes in Bologna serve food?
Many specialty shops serve food alongside their coffee. Forno Brisa is well known for pizza al taglio and pastries, while BURŌ offers brunch options.
What should I expect from the coffee culture here?
You will encounter a mix of traditional Italian espresso bars and newer specialty shops. While traditional bars often serve a darker roast, specialty cafes like Melée café focus on handcrafted brews and lighter profiles.