Breakfast and brunch

Best Local Breakfast and Coffee Spots in Ljubljana: A Foodie's Guide to Authentic Slovenian Morning Eats

Updated Sat, Aug 9, 2025

Discover Ljubljana's finest breakfast, brunch, and coffee spots - from cozy neighborhood cafés to local bakeries beloved by residents.

Best Local Breakfast and Coffee Spots in Ljubljana: A Foodie's Guide to Authentic Slovenian Morning Eats
1

Zvezda Kavarna

Ljubljana City Center
sit down
coffee and pastries
Not required

Zvezda Kavarna is Ljubljana's oldest coffeehouse, operating since 1820 in a grand historic building on Wolfova street. This traditional Viennese-style café maintains its original charm with crystal chandeliers, marble tables, and ornate interior details. The menu features classic European café fare including rich coffees, homemade cakes, and light meals. Locals and tourists gather here for the authentic old-world atmosphere that transports visitors back in time. The café serves as both a social hub and cultural landmark, offering newspapers and a leisurely pace that defines traditional European café culture. Large windows provide excellent people-watching opportunities while enjoying expertly prepared beverages.

Summary of reviews from

Google

This Ljubljana cafe offers excellent cakes, ice cream, and coffee with beautiful indoor spaces and comfortable outdoor seating. The Kremna rezina pastry features crisp layers with rich custard and cream. Great for people watching with helpful staff and dog-friendly atmosphere. Perfect spot for gathering with friends.

Service can be disappointing with rude waiters who lack basic courtesy. Dessert presentation is sometimes poor with melted cream and collapsed slices. Limited dessert availability without apologies. Overpriced for quality received. Outdoor smoking from other guests disrupts the dining experience.

Reviews summarized from between Dec 2024 and Jul 2025

Summary of reviews from

Claude

Visitors praise the authentic historical atmosphere and beautiful interior with period furnishings. Coffee quality receives consistent compliments, with many noting the traditional preparation methods. The central location makes it convenient for sightseeing breaks. Staff knowledge of café history adds to the experience.

Some guests find prices higher than typical Ljubljana establishments. Service can be slow during peak tourist hours. Limited food menu disappoints those seeking full meals. A few reviews mention outdated facilities and occasional inconsistency in service quality.

2

Cafetino

City Center
grab and go
coffee and pastries
Not required

Cafetino is Ljubljana's specialty coffee destination, drawing locals and tourists with expertly crafted espresso drinks and light breakfast options. The compact cafe features minimalist decor with exposed brick walls and industrial lighting, creating an urban atmosphere perfect for morning coffee meetings or solo work sessions. Their skilled baristas prepare single-origin coffees alongside popular milk-based drinks, while the food menu focuses on fresh pastries, croissants, and simple breakfast items. Located steps from Ljubljana's main pedestrian areas, this coffee shop attracts a steady stream of caffeine enthusiasts seeking quality over quantity. The intimate space fills quickly during peak hours, making it ideal for quick coffee stops rather than extended dining experiences.

Summary of reviews from

Google

Exceptional coffee shop with 35 bean varieties and passionate, knowledgeable staff. Fresh roasted aromas fill the cozy space perfect for journaling or conversations. No laptops allowed creates genuine social atmosphere. Transforms into evening bar. Reasonable prices at 3.4 euros per cup with great pastries.

Limited negative feedback from reviews provided. Main constraint appears to be laptop ban, which some visitors might find restrictive for work purposes, though this policy intentionally promotes face-to-face interaction and coffee appreciation over digital distractions.

Reviews summarized from between Jun 2025 and Jul 2025

Summary of reviews from

Tripadvisor

This coffee shop excels with an impressive global selection of beans and brewing methods. Visitors praise the exceptional quality coffee, friendly staff who provide helpful recommendations, and excellent breakfast pastries like croissants and strudel. Regular customers consistently bring guests here, making it a local favorite for coffee enthusiasts.

The reviews provided don't mention any specific negative aspects about this coffee destination. All three reviewers expressed only positive experiences with the service, coffee quality, and overall atmosphere.

Reviews summarized from between Nov 2023 and Jan 2025

Summary of reviews from

Claude

Visitors praise the exceptional coffee quality and knowledgeable baristas who craft perfect espresso drinks. Many highlight the cozy atmosphere and central location that makes it convenient for exploring Ljubljana's old town.

Some customers note limited seating space and mention that the cafe can become crowded during busy periods. A few reviews point to higher prices compared to other local coffee shops in the area.

Don't lose these Ljubljana gems in your browser history.

Don't lose these Ljubljana gems in your browser history.

Start a Board to save everything in one place. Add notes, share with friends, and actually remember what caught your eye.

3

Cafe Čokl

Old Town
grab and go
chocolate and confectionery
Not required

Cafe Čokl is Ljubljana's premier chocolate destination, offering handcrafted chocolates, decadent hot chocolate drinks, and chocolate-based desserts. This artisanal chocolaterie combines traditional European chocolate-making techniques with modern flavors and presentations. The shop features an impressive selection of single-origin chocolates, pralines, and seasonal specialties made on-site by skilled chocolatiers. Visitors can watch the chocolate-making process through large windows while enjoying rich hot chocolate or chocolate pastries. The intimate space creates a warm atmosphere perfect for chocolate lovers seeking authentic Slovenian confectionery craftsmanship. Čokl sources high-quality cacao beans and focuses on sustainable practices, making it a favorite among locals and tourists who appreciate artisanal sweets and premium chocolate experiences.

Summary of reviews from

Google

Cafe Čokl offers exceptional specialty coffee with rich, smooth espresso and outstanding flat whites at fair prices (cappuccino €2.40). The friendly, knowledgeable staff provides excellent service in a welcoming atmosphere. Located at the foot of castle hill with a lovely terrace offering castle funicular views, it's perfectly positioned for exploring.

The cafe doesn't offer takeaway coffee service, which may disappoint visitors looking for coffee to go. Some guests found the ordering process initially unclear, unsure whether to order at the bar or wait for table service upon entering.

Reviews summarized from between Aug 2023 and Jul 2025

Summary of reviews from

Tripadvisor

Čokl serves Ljubljana's best coffee according to multiple visitors. The owner sources unique fair trade beans from South America and roasts them expertly. Fast, friendly service complements quality drinks including cold brew, hot chocolate, and oat milk options. The eco-café concept adds appeal for conscious travelers.

The café gets very busy, making it difficult to find empty tables. Some visitors noted the lack of cream cakes or pastries, limiting food options to homemade cake. The popularity means you need luck to secure seating during peak times.

Reviews summarized from between Aug 2020 and Oct 2022

Summary of reviews from

Claude

Visitors praise the exceptional quality of handmade chocolates and rich, creamy hot chocolate. Many highlight the knowledgeable staff who explain different chocolate origins and flavors. The authentic chocolate-making process visible through windows adds to the experience.

Some customers find prices higher than expected for chocolate products. Limited seating space can create crowding during peak hours. A few visitors mention that the selection, while high-quality, is smaller compared to larger chocolate shops.

4

Odprta Kuhinja

City Center
grab and go
street food
Not required

Odprta Kuhinja transforms Ljubljana's riverside every Friday between March and October into Slovenia's premier outdoor food market. Located along the Ljubljanica River, this vibrant street food gathering features dozens of local vendors serving everything from traditional Slovenian dishes to international fusion cuisine. The market creates a festival atmosphere where locals and tourists mingle while sampling diverse culinary offerings. Each vendor specializes in specific cuisines, from Asian street food and Mexican tacos to artisanal burgers and vegan options. The scenic waterfront setting provides outdoor seating with views of Ljubljana Castle and the old town. Live music and cultural events often accompany the dining experience, making it both a meal and entertainment destination that showcases Ljubljana's dynamic food culture.

Summary of reviews from

Google

Ljubljana's Friday food market offers incredible variety with international street food from Korean to Argentinian cuisine. Located in a beautiful city center square, the atmosphere buzzes with energy and amazing aromas. Local businesses showcase specialties while visitors enjoy wine and discover cost-effective options.

The market operates only on Fridays, limiting accessibility for visitors. Crowded conditions make finding seating challenging. While food variety impresses, many vendors charge overpriced rates that may disappoint budget-conscious travelers seeking affordable dining options.

Reviews summarized from between Apr 2025 and Jul 2025

Summary of reviews from

Tripadvisor

This Friday outdoor market offers diverse cuisines at fair prices near the central market. Visitors rave about exceptional BBQ ribs, homemade pasta, great cocktails and wines. Popular with locals and tourists, it provides plenty of seating with umbrellas for shade on sunny days.

The market gets extremely busy at lunchtime, making it hard to find good spots. Some visitors found it more appealing to locals than tourists seeking authentic experiences. Alcoholic drinks are notably expensive compared to food stand prices.

Reviews summarized from between Apr 2024 and Jul 2025

Summary of reviews from

Claude

Visitors praise the incredible variety of high-quality food options and the lively social atmosphere. Many highlight the affordable prices, scenic riverside location, and opportunity to try multiple cuisines in one place. The outdoor setting and live entertainment create a memorable dining experience.

Some visitors note long queues at popular vendors and limited seating during peak hours. Weather dependency means cancellations during rain. A few mention higher prices compared to regular restaurants and crowded conditions making navigation difficult.

5

Kavarna SEM

Center
grab and go
coffee and pastries
Not required

Kavarna SEM is a premier specialty coffee destination, drawing serious coffee enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. This modern coffeehouse showcases carefully sourced single-origin beans and expertly crafted espresso drinks prepared by skilled baristas. The minimalist interior features clean lines, warm wood accents, and large windows that flood the space with natural light. Beyond exceptional coffee, SEM offers fresh pastries, light breakfast options, and simple lunch fare. The atmosphere balances professional coffee culture with approachable hospitality. Located steps from Ljubljana's historic center, it serves as both a morning ritual destination for locals and a discovery for travelers seeking authentic Slovenian coffee culture.

Summary of reviews from

Google

Visitors praise the peaceful garden setting perfect for coffee breaks and socializing. The atmosphere is calm and welcoming with good coffee and beers. Many appreciate the biergarten vibes during summer and the dual outdoor/courtyard seating options. Exceptional service from friendly staff creates memorable experiences that keep guests returning.

Pricing is consistently high across food and drinks. Service quality varies significantly, with some staff falling below expectations. Seating areas need updates and refurbishment. The mandatory tip system on POS terminals frustrates customers who find it shameless and inappropriate for the service level received.

Reviews summarized from between Jun 2025 and Jul 2025

Summary of reviews from

Tripadvisor

This cafe offers abundant outdoor seating in beautiful green surroundings with a relaxed garden atmosphere perfect for sunny days. Staff provides friendly, great service while serving desserts and breakfast options available all day. The venue features an appealing pottery studio with classes and shop that visitors love exploring.

During nice weather, the popular cafe becomes quite busy with many occupied tables. Guests may experience longer wait times before being able to place their orders due to high demand and limited seating availability when conditions are favorable for outdoor dining.

Reviews summarized from between Mar 2020 and Aug 2024

Summary of reviews from

Claude

Visitors consistently praise the exceptional coffee quality and knowledgeable baristas who explain brewing methods. The modern, clean atmosphere attracts remote workers and coffee lovers. Many highlight the carefully selected beans and professional preparation techniques that rival top European coffee cities.

Some customers find prices higher than typical Ljubljana cafes. Limited food menu disappoints those seeking substantial meals. Busy periods can create longer wait times, and the minimalist design feels too sterile for some visitors preferring cozy traditional cafes.

Ready to stop winging it?

Ready to stop winging it?

See travel times, collaborate with travel mates, and create a schedule that actually works. Use Trips to organize these Ljubljana spots by day.

6

Le Petit Café

Center
sit down
french
Optional

Le Petit Café offers a charming French-inspired dining experience in Ljubljana's city center. This intimate restaurant serves classic European dishes with a focus on French cuisine, featuring fresh ingredients and traditional cooking methods. The cozy interior creates a warm atmosphere with wooden furnishings and soft lighting. Popular menu items include duck confit, beef bourguignon, and seasonal vegetable dishes. The wine selection emphasizes French varieties alongside local Slovenian options. Service tends to be attentive and knowledgeable about menu offerings. The restaurant maintains consistent quality across appetizers, main courses, and desserts. Portions are generous without being overwhelming, making it suitable for leisurely dining experiences.

Summary of reviews from

Google

Staff consistently provide helpful, professional, and fast service even during busy periods. The breakfast menu offers fresh ingredients with delicious variety. The atmosphere is cozy and traditional with pleasant outdoor seating. Most visitors rate their experience highly and recommend the spot.

Some dishes lack flavor and presentation, with limited vegetables served. The location attracts many tourists which some find overwhelming. Service can be inconsistent with long waits - one reviewer waited over 90 minutes after their waiter disappeared mid-meal.

Reviews summarized from between Apr 2025 and Jul 2025

Summary of reviews from

Tripadvisor

Popular breakfast spot with fresh, quality ingredients and generous portions. Highlights include Eggs Royal with smoked salmon and Istrian breakfast with black truffle. Good value at €30 for two. Pleasant outdoor seating in quiet neighborhood with shade and greenery. Friendly service when attentive.

Inconsistent service quality with reports of discrimination against tourists. Some visitors experienced long waits, being ignored by staff, and receiving dirty looks. Food quality varies - eggs described as not good in English breakfast, though other items like sausage and juice were better.

Reviews summarized from between Jul 2025 and Jul 2025

Summary of reviews from

Claude

Guests praise the authentic French flavors and quality ingredients. Many highlight the cozy atmosphere and attentive service. The wine selection receives positive mentions, particularly French bottles paired with meals. Diners appreciate the consistent food quality.

Some visitors find prices higher than expected for Ljubljana standards. Limited vegetarian options disappoint some guests. A few reviews mention slower service during busy periods. Seating can feel cramped when the restaurant is full.

7

Café Capri

Center
sit down
coffee and pastries
Not required

Café Capri is a modern coffee destination in Ljubljana's vibrant downtown area, drawing locals and visitors with its specialty coffee program and contemporary atmosphere. The café features expertly crafted espresso drinks alongside a selection of light meals and pastries. Known for its sleek interior design and professional barista service, Capri has established itself as a quality coffee spot among Ljubljana's growing specialty coffee scene. The space offers comfortable seating for both quick coffee stops and longer work sessions, making it popular with digital nomads and business professionals.

Summary of reviews from

Google

Excellent breakfast spot in Ljubljana with outstanding food quality and friendly English-speaking staff. The royal breakfast and English breakfast receive high praise. Quick service delivers orders within minutes. Great atmosphere with well-chosen music. Extensive vegetarian and dairy-free options available. Prices beat hotel breakfast costs significantly.

Some minor issues reported including ants near tables closest to the door and window area, though they don't affect the actual dining experience. Croissants can be dry when visiting near closing time. One reviewer wished for more bread with the royal breakfast portion.

Reviews summarized from between Dec 2024 and Jul 2025

Summary of reviews from

Tripadvisor

Guests love the prime location just 3 minutes from Preseren Square with easy walking access to historic areas. The breakfast buffet receives high praise for its variety and quality, accommodating all dietary needs. Rooms are spacious, comfortable, and clean with king-size beds. Staff provides attentive service with genuine smiles. Excellent value for money.

Some rooms face inward with concrete wall views instead of street scenes, creating a claustrophobic feeling without natural light or greenery. TV positioning is awkward, making it difficult to watch from bed or sofa. While quiet due to no street noise, the lack of outdoor views may disappoint guests expecting scenic window views.

Reviews summarized from between Jul 2025 and Aug 2025

Summary of reviews from

Claude

Visitors praise the exceptional coffee quality and skilled baristas who create perfect espresso-based drinks. The modern, clean atmosphere receives consistent compliments, with many noting the comfortable seating and good WiFi for working. Service is frequently described as friendly and professional.

Some customers find the prices higher than traditional Ljubljana cafés. Limited food options disappoint those seeking substantial meals. During peak hours, the space can become crowded with limited seating availability, and service may slow down considerably.

Your Ljubljana plans are solid, but life has other ideas.

Your Ljubljana plans are solid, but life has other ideas.

Restaurant closed? Weather sucks? Companion adapts faster than you can say "well, this is awkward."

8

Druga Violina

Old Town
sit down
slovenian
Optional

Druga Violina operates as a social enterprise restaurant where people with disabilities work alongside professional staff to create an inclusive dining experience. The establishment serves traditional Slovenian cuisine with modern touches in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Located in Ljubljana's old town, this unique restaurant combines excellent food with meaningful social impact. Diners enjoy hearty local dishes while supporting employment opportunities for individuals with special needs. The menu features seasonal ingredients prepared with care and attention to detail. The restaurant's mission extends beyond serving meals to creating community connections and breaking down social barriers through shared dining experiences.

Summary of reviews from

Google

Excellent Slovenian home cooking with generous portions at fair prices. Daily changing menu features authentic dishes like goulash with polenta. Staff with special needs provide organized, efficient service. Good gluten-free options clearly marked. Comfortable atmosphere with outdoor seating when available.

Food service can be slow with 30+ minute waits common. Some dishes like beef soup may be plain or from concentrate. Road construction currently limits outdoor seating availability. Patience required due to special needs staffing, though service quality remains good.

Reviews summarized from between Mar 2025 and Jul 2025

Summary of reviews from

Tripadvisor

Outstanding food with memorable flavors including turkey with cheese topping, štrukli, and traditional sampler plates. Staff with disabilities provide wonderful service using unique pencil-and-paper ordering system. Great concept restaurant in Ljubljana city center with perfect portion sizes and changing daily menu.

Ordering process differs from typical restaurants as you mark items on paper rather than verbal ordering. Menu changes daily so favorite dishes may not always be available. Service timing may be slower due to the specialized nature of the staff and ordering system.

Reviews summarized from between Mar 2025 and Jul 2025

Summary of reviews from

Claude

Guests praise the excellent traditional Slovenian food, friendly service, and meaningful social mission. Many highlight the welcoming atmosphere created by staff with disabilities who provide genuine hospitality. The authentic local dishes receive consistent compliments for quality and flavor.

Some visitors mention slower service during busy periods, though most understand this relates to the restaurant's inclusive employment model. Occasional complaints about limited menu options for dietary restrictions and higher prices compared to typical local restaurants.

9

Kavarna Rog

Center
sit down
coffee and pastries
Not required

Kavarna Rog is Ljubljana's most iconic coffee house, operating since 1967 in a prime city center location. This historic cafe draws locals and tourists with its retro communist-era atmosphere and traditional Slovenian coffee culture. The venue features classic interior design with vintage furnishings and large windows perfect for people watching. Known for serving excellent coffee alongside light meals, pastries, and traditional Slovenian dishes. The establishment maintains its authentic charm while offering modern amenities. Visitors appreciate the central location making it an ideal meeting spot and rest stop during city exploration. The cafe represents Ljubljana's coffee tradition and serves as a cultural landmark where generations have gathered to socialize and conduct business.

Summary of reviews from

Google

This Ljubljana riverside restaurant excels with delicious breakfast dishes like eggs Benedict with salmon and perfectly poached eggs. Staff consistently impress with friendly, accommodating service that keeps visitors returning. The cozy interior creates an intimate atmosphere perfect for dates or business meetings, while the prime location by the Ljubljanica river makes it easily accessible.

Food tends to be oversalted, which appears common among Ljubljana restaurants. The restaurant gets quite busy and noisy, especially during morning hours, making it unsuitable for work. Timing can be tricky as they have specific lunch and brunch schedules that may catch early visitors off guard.

Reviews summarized from between Feb 2025 and Jun 2025

Summary of reviews from

Tripadvisor

Prime riverside location south of St. Peter's bridge offers excellent people watching in a chic atmosphere. Staff provides good service and the setting features great house music. Visitors appreciate the beautiful environment for coffee breaks while exploring Ljubljana's quieter side. Good pricing adds value.

Quality has declined significantly at this once-excellent spot. Recent visits reveal flavorless soup, undercooked salmon, and extremely long wait times of up to an hour. Despite maintaining the same prices, the food standards have dropped dramatically, disappointing regular customers.

Reviews summarized from between Oct 2024 and Jul 2025

Summary of reviews from

Claude

Visitors praise the authentic atmosphere and excellent coffee quality. Many appreciate the historic charm and prime location for people watching. Staff receives compliments for friendly service and knowledge of local culture. The traditional Slovenian pastries and light meals earn positive mentions.

Some guests find the interior dated and in need of renovation. Service can be slow during peak hours. A few visitors mention limited food options and inconsistent meal quality. Prices are considered high by some budget-conscious travelers.

10

Vigo Ice Cream & Café

Ljubljana Old Town
grab and go
ice cream and coffee
Not required

Vigo Ice Cream & Café sits along Ljubljana's scenic riverfront, offering handcrafted gelato and artisanal coffee in a charming setting. This family-run establishment draws locals and tourists with its creamy Italian-style ice cream made from premium ingredients. The café features both indoor seating and a pleasant outdoor terrace overlooking the Ljubljanica River. Their extensive gelato menu includes classic flavors like pistachio and stracciatella alongside seasonal specialties. Beyond frozen treats, Vigo serves quality coffee drinks, light pastries, and small snacks. The location provides perfect people-watching opportunities while enjoying Ljubljana's relaxed atmosphere. Staff members are friendly and often provide samples to help customers choose flavors.

Summary of reviews from

Google

Ljubljana's top ice cream destination offers exceptional flavors like dark chocolate raspberry and unique Rikota with ricotta, pecan caramel and orange. Creative options include vegan choices, specialty cones with chocolate and nuts, plus complimentary melted chocolate drizzle. English menu available. Perfect outdoor seating for enjoying treats.

Expect long lines due to popularity. Service can be unfriendly and unwelcoming. Restroom facilities are poorly maintained and require a receipt code for access. Limited flavor selection compared to variety of specialty cones and toppings available.

Reviews summarized from between Feb 2025 and Jul 2025

Summary of reviews from

Tripadvisor

Located near Ljubljana's Triple Bridges in Old Town, this gelato shop serves fresh, high-quality ice cream made on-site. Visitors praise unique flavors like mango cardamom yogurt, passion fruit sorbet, and latte macchiato. The service is friendly and quick, with excellent espresso available upstairs.

The location is clearly very touristy, which some visitors noted. One reviewer mentioned that while the pistachio gelato was good, it wasn't the best they'd experienced compared to gelato in Italy. However, most reviews were overwhelmingly positive with minimal complaints.

Reviews summarized from between Jun 2025 and Jul 2025

Summary of reviews from

Claude

Visitors praise the exceptional gelato quality and authentic Italian taste. Many highlight the friendly service and generous sampling policy. The riverside location receives frequent mentions for its scenic views and relaxing atmosphere. Coffee quality also earns positive feedback.

Some customers note higher prices compared to other local ice cream shops. Occasional complaints about limited indoor seating during peak hours. A few reviews mention inconsistent opening hours, particularly during off-season months.

Redirecting to ...