Books, coffee, coffee, and books go hand in hand, creating a lovely pair that exudes a unique charm. There's more than a cosy feeling when one hand wraps around a warm mug while the other flips through the pages of a favourite book. Unsurprisingly, bringing books and coffee together has been a secret to success and has gained tremendous popularity among like-minded individuals. In India, many reading cafés have emerged, allowing people to escape the hustle and bustle of the world and immerse themselves in new worlds while enjoying delectable delicacies. Here, we present a list of India's top 7 reading cafés.
Café Turtle, Delhi
Café Turtle is a delightful retreat adorned with vibrant colours, making it a breath of fresh air among the bustling cityscape of Delhi. As one of the oldest book cafés in the city, it offers a cheerful ambience, a wide range of books to peruse, and heavenly delights to savour. Grab a cup of tea, delve into an amazing book, and forget you are in a busy South Delhi marketplace. Don't miss their legendary date cake with toffee sauce.
Address: Shop No. 23, 2nd Floor, Middle Lane, Khan Market, New Delhi, Delhi 110003
Kitab Khana, Food for Thought, Mumbai
Kitab Khana, nestled in the heart of bustling Mumbai, is one of the most beautiful bookshops in the city. Time seems to stand still here, providing a serene environment for readers amidst the ticking clock of the metropolis. Visitors can enjoy flipping through books, sipping coffee, and relishing luscious delicacies. The café is adorned with bright orange, pink, and blue shelves and quirky bean bags that add to its colourful charm.
Address: 45/47, Kitabkhana, Somaiya Bhavan, Mahatma Gandhi Road, Flora Fountain, Fort, Mumbai
Illiterati, McLeodganj
Illiterati is a true bliss for book-loving urban travellers. This café boasts an extensive collection of books and mouth-watering dishes and offers a breathtaking view of the majestic Dhauladhar mountains. Grab your favourite book, order a sizzling masala chai, and leave behind all the worries and cares of the world as you soak in the tranquil atmosphere.
Address: Jogibara Rd, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176219
Cha Bar, Oxford Book Store
Cha Bar holds the distinction of being the place where the fusion of food and books originated. This unique concept began in Kolkata in 2000 and was an instant hit. The café features a chic, elegant, and contemporary ambience with black, blue, and white as its primary colours. With a menu offering over 150 types of tea, Cha Bar is a paradise for all chai lovers. Enjoy a gourmet tea while browsing through the latest bestsellers.
Address: N-81, Barakhamba Road, Block N, Connaught Place, New Delhi 110001
Literati, Goa
For travellers seeking more than just beaches and parties in Goa, Literati provides an arty-crafty haven in the Bardez locality of North Goa. Housed in a 100-year-old Portuguese-style bungalow, this bookshop and café offer a comfortable and cosy environment to curl up with your favourite book on a lazy afternoon. Indulge in strong Karnataka coffee and homemade sandwiches while immersing yourself in the piles of good reads.
Address: E/1-282 GAURA VADDO, Calangute, Goa 403516
Atta Galatta, Bangalore
Atta Galatta is a hub of creativity, encompassing writing, painting, workshops, performances, book launches, and more. This vibrant place in Bangalore allows visitors to immerse themselves in their favourite reads, available in regional languages and English translations. To enhance the experience, Atta Galatta offers a range of delicious baked goodies to munch on throughout the day.
Address: 134, KHB Colony, 5th Block, Koramangala, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560095
Kunzum Café, Delhi
Kunzum Café in Delhi is a true haven for wanderers and travel enthusiasts. The café entices visitors with an irresistible invitation to explore travel books, guides, magazines, maps, and captivating travel photography. Here, fellow travellers gather, sharing stories over countless cups of coffee. An interesting feature of Kunzum Café is its unique pricing system, allowing customers to pay what they feel like for their coffee.
Address: T-49, GF, Hauz Khas Village, New Delhi, Delhi 110016
As the poet R.M. Engelhardt once wrote, "A smoke, a book, a cup of coffee. These little things get us through this sometimes weary world and all the rainy days." In today's modern and digital world, where everything is available online, paper books are no longer merely prized possessions. To attract more readers and provide an immersive experience, bookstores reinvent themselves as reading cafés. Likewise, cafés, which once served a social purpose, are now incorporating a personal element by combining literature and gastronomy. With their inviting ambience, extensive book collections, and delectable treats, these reading cafés in India are enchanting havens for bookworms and coffee lovers alike.
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Talk to an ExpertFAQs
Are reading cafés only for serious bookworms?
Not at all! Reading cafés welcome everyone, from casual readers to hardcore bookworms. Whether you want to relax with a coffee and a light read or dive into an epic novel, these cafés offer a cosy and inviting atmosphere for all book lovers.
Can I bring my book to a reading café?
Yes, reading cafés encourage you to bring your books. It's the perfect opportunity to share your favourite reads with others or delve into a new book while enjoying the café's ambience and delicious treats.
Do reading cafés serve coffee only?
While coffee is a staple in reading cafés, they often offer a variety of beverages to suit different tastes. From teas and hot chocolates to refreshing fruit juices and smoothies, you'll find various options to complement your reading experience.
Are the delicacies in reading cafés only for snacking?
Not at all! Reading cafés take their food offerings seriously. You can find delicious snacks and light bites, but many cafés also serve full meals with a delectable range of cuisines. So, whether you're in the mood for a quick nibble or a hearty meal, these cafés have you covered.
Can I spend all day at a reading café?
Yes, reading cafés are designed to be comfortable and accommodating, allowing you to lose track of time while engrossed in your book. Feel free to spend as much time as you like sipping coffee, indulging in treats, and immersing yourself in the captivating world of literature.
