A lot can happen over a cup of coffee! The modern Indian cafe is no longer just a pitstop for caffeine, but it has turned into a community hub where skilled beverage execution meets some of the perfectly paired culinary delights in a setting that feels like a second home.
As a part of the Zee Zest Unlimit Awards 2026, we are celebrating the spaces that offer more than just a menu, but they offer a mood! From the artisanal coffee roasters of Central India to the botanical patisseries of Mumbai, these Indian cafes nominated under the category for “The Best Cafe” set the gold standard for the ideal cafe culture.
1. Lento, Goa
Hidden away in the quiet, leafy lanes of Saligao, Lento is a celebration of the slow life, as its name suggests as well. This charming spot has quickly become a sanctuary for those looking to escape the coastal bustle. With an interior that feels like a warm, artistic hug, Lento serves up some truly soul-satisfying American and Japanese-inspired bites alongside meticulously brewed coffee. Whether you are here for a quiet morning read or a lazy weekend brunch, its commitment to quality and unhurried hospitality makes it a Goan favourite.
2. Corridor Seven Coffee Roasters, Nagpur
The pride of Nagpur, Corridor Seven, is a pioneer in India’s speciality coffee movement. This isn't just a cafe, but a high-functioning roastery where transparency is the key! You can often see the beans being roasted in-house. Founded on a no-middleman philosophy that empowers Indian farmers, their passion for the craft is evident in every pour-over and espresso. With its industrial-chic vibe and a community-first approach, this cafe has transformed Nagpur into a destination for serious coffee geeks.
3. Madeleine de Proust- Fairmont, Mumbai
Inspired by the famous French literary motif of nostalgia, Madeleine de Proust at Fairmont Mumbai is a botanical dream. This Indo-French tea lounge and patisserie is designed to evoke memories through every bite. Set against a backdrop of cherry blossom trees and lush greenery, this cafe offers a refined selection of elegantly served teas and artisanal desserts from their signature trolleys. It is a place where the elegance of a Parisian salon meets the warmth of Indian hospitality, which is perfect for an afternoon of unwinding in style!
4. Farmer’s Cafe, Mumbai
A darling of the health-conscious Bandra crowd, Farmer’s Cafe proves that guilt-free does not necessarily mean taste-free. Known for its ‘Make Unhealthy Healthy’ philosophy, this cafe specialises in organic, vegan, and gluten-free delights. From their protein-loaded Avocado Toast to the legendary Skinny Chocolate Cake, every dish here portrays a vibrant celebration of farm-fresh produce. The earthy and rustic interiors of the space provide a cosy backdrop for a community that values wholesome and clean eating without compromising on indulgence.
5. Espressos AnyDay, Gurugram
The latest gem in Gurugram’s Hamilton Court, Espressos AnyDay, is a chef-crafted sanctuary led by Chef Tarannum Sehgal. With a custom La Marzocco machine at the helm, the coffee here is a serious affair, but the food is the secret superstar. Think hand-rolled pastas and the cult favourite Salmon Egg Benedict. Their Matcha Signatures, like the Rose and Collagen Matcha, have already dominated local Instagram feeds. It is a vibrant space, with a fresh vibe that transitions seamlessly from a morning workspace to a cosy evening date venue.
6. Nandan Coffee, Mumbai
Born from the high elevation Nandanvan Estate, Nandan Coffee brings a true crop-to-cup experience to the heart of Mumbai. This organic coffee specialist is a master of innovation, serving up unique brews like the Salted Honey Matcha and the nostalgic Banana Bread Latte. With its clean and modern aesthetics, along with a menu that highlights the nuances of single-origin Indian beans, Nandan is a daily ritual for the city’s urban professionals who appreciate a bold and intentional brew.
7. Garrison Hill Centre & Cafe, Kohima
Steeped in history and perched with a view, Garrison Hill is more than just a cafe; it is a tribute to Nagaland’s homegrown coffee culture. Located at a site of immense historical significance in Kohima, the cafe has made Nagaland-grown beans its USP. This place offers a warm and refined ambience, where tradition meets modern innovation. For the locals and travellers alike, a cup of their signature brew accompanied by the misty hills of Kohima is an experience that stays with you long after the last sip.
8. Roastery Coffee House, Hyderabad
The house that built Hyderabad’s speciality coffee scene, Roastery Coffee House in Banjara Hills, and now in Kokapet as well, remains an institution in itself. Set in a beautiful sprawling bungalow, it was the city’s first in-house roasting unit. Their signature Cranberry Coffee has become a national sensation that perfectly encapsulates their playful yet precise approach to the craft. With its iconic blue-and-white interiors and a menu that balances great coffee with comforting food, this place remains the ultimate happy place for Hyderabad's coffee lovers.