As a coffee enthusiast who has spent over a year exploring the vibrant cafe scene in Tirana, I am excited to share my experiences with some of the city’s standout specialty coffee shops. Tirana is known for its abundance of cafes, with many serving similar offerings from a few main bean suppliers. (I’ve seen multiple shops per block, even in a smaller neighbourhood. Coffee culture is alive and well!)
A few gems stand out for their dedication to specialty coffee, unique atmospheres, and exceptional service. Here, I will highlight three specialty coffee shopsâAntigua, Hana Corner Cafe, and Rubi Coffeeâand a bonus spot, Mulliri Gourmet, that have captured my attention. We’ve written full posts about some of these, which are linked above.
Antigua Specialty Coffee
Antigua has undergone significant changes over the past few years. Around 2021 and 2022, they were known for serving brunch, but they have since shifted their focus entirely to specialty coffee.
This transition has been a positive one, as Antigua now boasts one of the newest and most impressive espresso machines in the city, which they acquired in the second quarter of 2024. (I’ve stopped by 10+ times since then to try out their espresso drinks since they got it.) The quality of their coffee is solid, making it a must-visit for any coffee lover. One thing to note about Antigua is that their operating hours can be inconsistent. There have been instances where the hours listed on Google, Instagram, and their website do not match, leading to some disappointment for early risers. Despite this minor inconvenience, the quality of their coffee and the overall experience make it worth the visit. They also have plenty of bean choices, and a wonderful atmosphere to get a few things done, or have a meeting.
Our full review is here: https://tirana-albania.com/antigua-coffee-specialty/
Find them on Google Maps here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/9jgJWMkGpMnsnn7Z6
Hana Corner Cafe
Hana Corner Cafe offers a unique specialty coffee experience, particularly with their pour-over options. They select beans from various countries, including Germany, the Netherlands, and Nordic countries like Finland and Sweden. This diverse selection allows customers to choose from over ten different types of beans, rotating a selection of roasters, so each visit can be unique. Hana is also known for its freshly baked desserts, which receive rave reviews on Google. The cafe’s atmosphere is another highlight, with a great sense of music and a welcoming vibe that attracts an international crowd. Their pour-over selections, great sweet brunch options, and overall ambiance make Hana a standout in Tirana’s coffee scene.
Find our full review here: https://tirana-albania.com/hana-corner-cafe/
Find them on Google Maps here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/2ftiAECWVbd74tnB7
Rubi Coffee
When I talk to people about 3rd wave coffee in Tirana, people often are unaware of this new spot. From my understanding, it started as a cake shop, and has recently expanded into coffee.
Rubi Coffee is a relatively new player in the specialty coffee game, having transitioned from a cake shop to a coffee shop in 2024. Despite their recent entry, they have made a significant impact with their impressive menu and high-quality offerings. Rubi sources their coffee from renowned roasters like Coffee Collective Copenhagen and Alina Roasters from Rome, providing options for double espressos, flat whites, and cortados.One of the unique aspects of Rubi is their attention to detail. When you order a latte, they provide a card detailing the origin of the bean, the farm it came from, and the processing method. This level of transparency and education is rare and highly appreciated. Additionally, Rubi’s vibrant, pink decor makes it a perfect spot for Instagram-worthy photos.
Find our full review here: https://tirana-albania.com/rubi-tirana-coffeeshop/
Find them on Google Maps here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/FJt461FbybVyRdtw7
Bonus: Mulliri Gourmet
Mulliri Gourmet is a hidden gem that offers a surprising array of specialty coffee options. Unlike the standard Mulliri locations around Tirana, Mulliri Gourmet is akin to a Starbucks Reserve store, providing a more upscale coffee experience. They offer a variety of single-origin coffees, including Colombian Rum Barrel, and Jamaica Blue Mountain varieties, both of which are exceptionally smooth and unique. One of the most intriguing offerings at Mulliri Gourmet is the Indonesian Arabica Kopi Luwak, which is quite expensive but worth trying for its distinct flavor. The cafe also serves Yemen Mocha Matari, another specialty coffee that stands out. While Mulliri Gourmet is part of a chain, it manages to deliver a specialty coffee experience that rivals independent cafes.
Find them on Google Maps here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ycauUX2WmkzfF6jo9
Find our review of their brunch spot nearby here: https://tirana-albania.com/mugo-brunch-review/
Conclusion
Tirana’s specialty coffee scene/3rd wave coffee is growing fast, with places like Antigua, Hana Corner Cafe, Rubi Coffee, and Mulliri Gourmet leading the way. Each of these cafes offers something unique, from diverse bean selections and freshly baked desserts to detailed coffee origin cards and high-end espresso machines. As the city’s coffee culture continues to evolve, I look forward to discovering more local roasters and specialty coffee shops that bring the third wave coffee movement to Tirana. For now, these cafes are setting the standard and providing exceptional experiences for coffee lovers in the city.
