Verona

This little café has been a fixture on Corso Porta Borsari since 1969, and it truly feels like stepping back in time. The space is tiny: a long polished counter, a few marble-top tables and vintage cups and teapots packed into every nook. They roast their own coffee in-house and offer beans from around the world, plus classic espresso variations like the marocchino and viennese—all served by staff who seem to know everyone by name. The pasticceria is petite but strong—croissants, especially the pistachio or chocolate ones, are buzz-worthy. It fills up fast, so try for an early table or grab your coffee at the bar as the locals do.

A bright, book-lined bistrot just by the Duomo, Caffè & Parole leans into organic, vegetarian and vegan fare—fresh juices, raw bars, vegan carrot cake and croissants—alongside regular espresso and wines. It’s popular with a mix of tourists and locals, often buzzing mid-morning, so drop in early for the quieter atmosphere.

Since the 1940s, Flego has become a staple in Verona, now with a few branches in town. They offer a mix of classic Italian pastries and mouth-watering French-style treats—macarons, cannoli, mille‑feuilles—alongside local sweets like Torta Russa, plus strong espresso and friendly service. There’s a small tearoom tucked away at the back, which gives you a quiet corner away from the bustle. Whether you drop in for breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up, it feels relaxed and genuinely good.

Elk Bakery has a Scandinavian–New York café feel, with an industrial-chic interior and a brunch menu that leans international—pancakes, eggs Benedict, bagels and avocado toast. It’s a go-to for locals looking for something different from the usual Italian breakfast. The food is homemade, seasonal, and always nicely presented. It gets busy on weekends, especially during brunch, but the wait is worth it.

Right on Piazza Erbe since 1901, Filippini is the go-to spot for a morning coffee, afternoon aperitivo or light bite while people-watching in Verona’s oldest square. The café has two areas—the historic indoor room and a brasserie—and spills onto outdoor tables when the weather’s good. The vibe is relaxed and social, with friendly staff serving coffee, cocktails (try their vermouth-gin mix), pizzas, pastas and desserts.