Around the World in 8 Book Cafés

Loving books is a global phenomenon

If you’re a lover of books, a self-proclaimed bibliophile, then you know how amazing it is when you can find that cozy spot that draws you in, makes you comfortable, and leaves you to your own devices (aka reading). Book cafés and readers are a match made in heaven, where there are books and coffee (or tea) there will be a devoted reader. Today we’re looking at some beautiful book cafés from around the globe. 

1) El Ateneo Grand Splendid (Buenos Aires)

According toThe Daily Meal, El Ateneo is often voted one of the most beautiful bookstores (even on a global scale). Even if you’re traveling party isn’t interested in reading, drag them to this bookstore because it’s definitely worth seeing. The bookstore actually functioned as a theater back in the day, but it has been converted and the books themselves are presented right on the stage.

2) Barter Books (Alnwick, England)

It definitely seems we’ve got a theme going since this book café is another converted site. This time a train station has been renovated into vintage, rustic looking bookstore. Complete with a fireplace and buffet, this book café has everything you could want. The Daily Meal  writes that the buffet serves both tea and “Breakfast American Style” foods like rashers (smoked bacon). Better than a diner, better than a regular bookstore right?

3) Cook and Book (Brussels)

Each room in Cook and Book is designated and decorated by a particular theme. For example, as The Daily Meal tells us, “the literature room” is fashioned with black walls and about 800 books are suspended from the ceiling. That’s not all though! Cook and Book also features a garden and 2 restaurants! Definitely a one-stop destination.

4) Ler Devagar (Lisbon)

This book café’s name, in Portuguese, means “read slowly”. Part of a larger arts center, the café invites readers and artists to relax, have some wine and enjoy the books. A giant sculpture of a woman on a bicycle, basically the café’s patron, is hung above the customers head to add to the industrial aesthetic.

5) El Péndulo (Mexico City)

Cleverly named “The Pendulum”, this book café is filled with literary goodies from around the world. From their Bukowski Bar, it seems as though the entire store were covered with books ranging from the ceiling to the floor. Although many cafés tend to serve international foods, this one sticks to its roots so you can enjoy some tacos with your Hemingway.

6) Tranquebar (Copenhagen)

According to The Daily Meal, Tranquebar’s name has some history to it. The namesake “Tranquebar” originates from a colony that was established by Danes in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu during the 1620’s. The former colony is now actually called ‘Thatangambadi’ but the name survives and remains popular (because of the café) in Copenhagen. Most books sold here are of travel literature or international authors. Global communities gather and share ideas in this cozy, popular book café.

7) Every Thing Goes Book Café (Staten Island)

If you’re willing to take the ferry over to Staten Island you might be surprised by this little book café. Kitschy and cute, this café features a garden patio, espressos, organic chocolate, and vinyl records (and of course books!). This is a great place for intellectuals and art lovers to gather and exchange ideas.

8) The Bookworm (Beijing)

This book café is not only part bookstore, part café but it also features events like book talks, quiz nights, book clubs, and open mic nights. The ceiling is swathed in beautiful orange drapes to make you feel inspired and comforted. The Bookworm not only promotes their books but, according to The Daily Meal, they also feature a whiskey bar with over 30 options!

 So reading is definitely a shared love and it is experienced around the world. Would you take a trip to visit these book cafés?

Credit: https://www.bookstr.com/article/around-the-world-in-8-book-cafs/3132