Ele Ela Cafe

Nestled in the charming neighborhood of Santos-O-Velho in Lisbon, Ele Ela Café is much more than your typical coffee spot — it’s a sanctuary for specialty coffee aficionados and pastry lovers alike. This vibrant café masterfully blends high-quality Danish coffee beans from La Cabra with an inviting atmosphere that feels simultaneously hip and cozy.

Their carefully curated menu highlights an impressive range of coffee styles that cater to diverse tastes. Whether you’re craving a velvety Flat White, a robust Cortado, or a refreshing Iced Matcha Latte crafted with creamy oat milk, Ele Ela Café captivates with its precision and passion. The signature Cold Brew and the meticulous Coffee v60 drip preparation are celebrated for extracting nuanced flavors, a fact praised by seasoned coffee connoisseurs like Vera Zhukova, who hails it as a true “paradise for coffee lovers.”

Complementing their stellar drink selection are the irresistible buttery croissants — including sought-after vegan options — and an array of delicate cookies. Customers rave about the chocolate croissants, described by Luca Tonino as “one of the best” they've ever tasted, a testament to Ele Ela's skillful baking that adds a sumptuous dimension to every visit. For those with a sweet tooth, offerings like the Bolo de Morango e Nóz and the elusive Basque cheesecake (when available) elevate the café’s patisserie repertoire.

The ambiance here exudes warmth and a laid-back charm. Despite its modest size, the space is thoughtfully designed to foster friendly connections between baristas and patrons — a fact that underscored Viktor Mojsovski’s praise of “very friendly baristas.” Morning light floods in, creating an inviting glow, though it may shine directly on some seats, adding a touch of Lisbon’s radiant character to your coffee experience.

Service at Ele Ela Café shines through the youthful energy of its staff, combining professional expertise with genuine friendliness. The café’s commitment to specialty coffee is reflected not only in the exquisite drinks but also in the delightful details, such as the playful smiley-face mugs that guests like Laura Silverman fondly remember. It’s clear Ele Ela Café is more than a pit stop—it’s a destination where you can savor every sip and bite with intention.

Do note that the café operates on a card-only policy (excluding American Express), which some might find slightly limiting. Pricing, while on the higher side (an oat latte costs around €5.50), aligns with the premium quality and carefully sourced ingredients that define this experience.

In summary, Ele Ela Café stands out as one of Lisbon’s finest specialty coffee establishments, perfectly serving those who seek both exceptional brews and artisanal pastries in an inviting, intimate setting. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, this café deserves a spot on your must-visit list, promising moments of pure coffee craftsmanship and genuine warmth.