Holešovice has been our home for over 18 years now. While we might be biased, we have been saying it's one of the coolest neighborhoods to explore in Prague. Now, the Independent thinks so to so I guess we were onto something. Located on a peninsula surrounded by the Vltava river and squeezed between two of Prague's largest parks (Letenksé sady and Stromovka), its geography is responsible for shaping it into a unique district. It's industrial past and now-abandoned port made it a neighborhood for the working class. Recently, young entrepreneurs are rapidly moving in, giving the area a much-needed face lift. Galleries, theaters, community spaces, trendy restaurants and cafes have popped up like weeds. The typical hallmark of ex-industrial districts, a phenomenon you can see happening across cities as a way to up-cycle existing structures. Holešovice is no exception.

This hip district boasts enough coffee spots that could potentially fuel the whole city. Ok, maybe we are exaggerating, but you get what we mean- Holešovice has got A LOT of good coffee. Prague has been hit by the “third-wave” coffee movement that has. Don't expect your typical chain-brand faire here. Most specialty coffee places here will have your standard espresso drinks (latte, espresso, doppio, flat white, cappuccino, etc.) as well as a the trendy filters using Chemex, AeroPress or V60 systems and sometimes, even a good cold brew. Join as we explore our neighborhood through our caffeinated desires.

Vnitroblock

This new kid on the block has become a neighborhood favorite. Vnitroblock's hip industrial interior matches the wave of gentrification experienced by the neighborhood over the last year, catapulting it onto the radar as one of Europe's coolest neighborhoods. It is a culture center of sorts, with "SIGNATURE" concept store and cafe that will let you browse sustainable fashion from EU designers while sipping your flat white. But we know you are coming here for the coffee - they use an exclusive blend from Nord Beans, a roaster from Liberec, Czech Republic.Their coffee is nothing short of excellent, but the setting that let's you mingle amongst locals put it over the top. In the evenings, catch live DJs spinning sets that land somewhere between atmospheric and ambient vibes.

Address: Tusarova 31
Hours: Monday - Saturday: 9:00am - 10:00pm, Sunday: 9:00 am - 8:00pm

Barry Higgel's Coffeehouse

Barry Higgel's Coffeehouse is a cozy, minimalistic cafe offers coffees from all over the world. It is perfect for both digital nomads needing a quiet spot to work for a few hours before exploring the city and coffee aficionados alike. Rather than using any one specialty roaster exclusively, they offer something new every month. From the Barn in Berlin, Koppi in Sweden and other quality roasters from across Europe, they keep their selection rotating. In 2016, they were awarded best Prague coffee shop. Looking for something to eat? They often have something freshly baked (and delicious) as well as a few brunch options.

Address: Tusarova 25
Hours: Monday - Friday: 7:30 am - 6:30 pm, Saturday 9:00am - 6:00 pm, Sunday: 10:00 am - 6:00 pm

Paralelní Polis

Leave your Czech Koruna in your pocket for this next spot. They only take Bitcoin and other crypto-currencies, one of the few places in Prague to do so. It's namesake, Paralelní Polis, comes from a concept created by Czech political dissident, Vaclav Benda's 1977 essay. The text described an underground movement against the oppressive communist regime, and became a symbol of resistance and anarchy. Inspired by the philosopher's words in today's developments on cryptotechnologies, a co-working space and cafe opened, financed only by crypto-currencies. In addition to it's counter-culture focus that fits right in to the neighborhood, they have some of the best coffee in Holešovice, offering excellent specialty coffees (also using an exclusive blend of beans á la Nord Beans). It's open-bar plan makes the space feel communal and open, with a "statium" like set of benches that line one wall. Located a block from Sir Toby's on Dělnická, it's entirely black facade with loft-style windows and words "Institute of Crypotanarchy" sit like a crown on the top making it hard to miss.

Address: Dělnická 43
Hours: Monday - Friday: 8:00 am - 8:00 pm, Saturday 12:00 pm - 9:00 pm, Sunday: 12:00pm - 8:00pm

Solista Espresso Bar

This trendy and true Espresso bar located on the main drag that runs through the Letná neighborhood. The youngest to the party of third wave coffee spots in the area, but already developed a following for its quality. It's inviting pink walls and minimalistic interior makes the most of it's tiny space. Located next to Letenksé sady it's perfect for a take-away coffee to sip on your walk through the much loved park. Solista uses a variety of roasters from Czech Republic, Germany and more. They even offer pastries from the delicious Erhart Cafe.

Address: Milady Horákové 48
Hours: Monday - Friday: 8:00am - 6:00pm. Saturday & Sunday: 9:00am - 5:30pm

Dos Mundos

Dos Mundos, meaning "two worlds" is more than just another speciality coffee shop on Milady Horákové. Serving only coffees roasted at their roaster in Vinohrady, which also happens to be their flagship location. They have more than just your variety of espresso drinks and filter coffees, usually with multiple options of origin and flavor profiles. Looking for something more fun? Their Coco flat is a double espresso with coconut milk and pineapple juice - and tropical deviation from the usual. The creation is fitting to their namesake which plays into the far away places they source their beans from.  While their coffee is serious, the swing seats in the window can suggest a more playful and inviting atmosphere for you to enjoy some pretty delicious coffee.

Address: Milady Horákové 38
Hours: Monday - Friday: 8:00am - 9:00pm, Saturday & Sunday: 10:00am - 7:00pm

Ye's Kafe / Studio

This trendy cafe on Letenksé namesti is one part atelier, one part cafe. It’s small and modern with an artsy feel. They make the most of their space with the lofted studio up above, giving the cafe a unique interior. If you are a fan of the Bonanza Roasters hailing for Berlin, then their selection of espresso based drinks and filters will suit your fancy.

Address: Letenské náměstí 5
Hours: Monday - Friday: 7:30am - 7:00pm, Saturday & Sunday: 9:30am - 6:00pm

Alchymista

This local secret might be more well known for their desserts. Of course everyone has their favorite, but depending on who you talk to, one might say the best in all of Prague. Hidden away on an unassuming street, Alchymista has a cozy, unpretentious atmosphere that feels as if you have found yourself in your Babi's (Czech for grandmother) house - in the best way. Elegant antiques fill the room, not to mention it’s stunning terrace in the back for warmer months. But we are here to talk about coffee. This place arrived in Prague in the late 90’s, long before third wave coffee was a thing. Offering a dark, rich roasts that complement those delicious desserts. If you are feeling a little adventurous, try one of their coffee cocktails that are like a delicious, alcoholic dessert in a cup.

Address: Jana Zajíce 7
Hours: Monday - Friday 7:30am - 9:30pm, Saturday 10:30am - 9:30pm, Sunday 10:30am - 7:30pm

The Farm

A popular farm-to-table brunch spot amongst locals, The Farm is the farthest away from Sir Toby’s front door, but ideal if you miss breakfast. Using DoubleShot, another local and favorited roaster in only espresso based beverages. This is a perfect place if you are looking to enjoy your coffee as you sit for a while. If you are looking to not wander so far, the electronic store, Alza in Holešovice trznice also has a DoubleShot cafe, and it used as a training ground for their baristas.

Address: Korunovacni 17
Hours: Monday - Friday 8:00am - 10:30pm, Saturday 9:00am - 10:30pm, Sunday 9:00am - 8:00pm

Staff Favorite: Cafe Letka

Cafe Letka has one of the arguably prettiest interiors all around. It’s elegant details with the chandeliers, framed mirrors, and aged pink walls play homage to the building history.  Large, domed windows let it plenty of light while offers a cozy place to sit amongst rustic wooden tables. While this place sticks to espresso based drinks (sorry filter lovers), it still works exclusively with Berlin-based roastery, Five Elephants. Their excellent selection of light menu options matched with stunning atmosphere and even better coffee makes this a favorite spot of mine to spend an afternoon.

Address: Letohradská 44
Hours: Monday: 3:00pm-12:00am, Tuesday - Friday: 8:00am - 12:00am, Saturday: 9:00am - 12:00am, Sunday: 9:00am - 10:00pm