Coffeeshops (no, not those) in Groningen
You all heard about the famous coffeeshops in The Netherlands … Well, sorry, but we are not going to discuss those here, at least not this time. This is about places that actually sell coffee! In Groningen you can find a wide variety of places to have a nice cup of coffee, but sometimes we look for something else than coffee itself when we go to a coffee place. That’s why Emma and Laura visited some peculiar cafes in Groningen that they believe are worth a visit.
Black & Bloom
This coffee shop was the first artisan espresso-bar in Groningen, it opened its doors in August 2012. Located in Oude Kijk in ‘t Jatstraat 32, Black & Bloom is the kind of place where you feel instantly at ease, be it to have a coffee with a couple of friends or to have a tea as you finish reading that novel that’s been sitting on your nightstand for more than a month.
They offer specialty coffee that will elevate you – there coffee is simply amazing. It is bought in-season, roasted to perfection by the owner since 2016, and carefully crafted to give you the best coffee experience.
You can also enjoy the most delicious milkshakes too, in case you’re not into caffeine. We definitely recommend the salted caramel one – especially if you became a fan of the orange Tony’s Chocolonely chocolate bars after arriving in the Netherlands.
If you’ve got a sweet(er) tooth, though, worry not – you will find plenty of brownies or cakes to choose from, too!
Although the quality of this cafe is clearly superior, its prices are average compared to other cafeterias. For example, a cappuccino is around €3,50.
If you’ve got a passion for coffee and you’d like to learn a bit more about it, Black & Bloom also offers coffee workshops for €45 that take place in the evenings. These workshops have a theoretical and a practical part, so you can make the most out of the experience.
You can also buy their coffee online or at the shop itself.
Kattencafe Op z’n Kop
Located at Oude Ebbingestraat 57, the Kattencafe Op z’n Kop (Dutch for ‘upside down’) is the perfect getaway for those of us who miss our pets back home but can’t own one in the Netherlands.
The cat cafeteria is a warm and comfy place where you can sit and relax, and enjoy the presence of our furry friends while having a nice cup of coffee and homemade cakes, but they also organize different activities at the cafeteria, such as movie nights, yoga or dinner with the cats.
The prices of the Kattencafe are similar to any other coffee shop. For example, you can have a delicious cappuccino for €3’40 or a hot chocolate for €3’50, while a piece of pie is between €3’50 and 5,00.
At this café you will find ten lovely cats who live inside. To guarantee a healthy and serene atmosphere for the cats, they ask all guests to follow their house rules and interact in a gentle, loving and respectful manner with the cats.
Before visiting the cat cafeteria we recommend you to book a table on their website, since they have limited capacity and you may not find a place if you just stop by.
Croissanterie Pigalle
Are you a brunch lover? In that case you really have to visit Croissanterie Pigalle, at Stoeldraaierstraat 17.
This place is perfect for breakfast, lunch or just having a nice cup of coffee and a croissant; but what you really can’t miss is the special Pigalle breakfast.
Mondays from 10 am to 11 am, Tuesday to Saturday from 8 am to 11 am and Sundays from 9 am to 12pm you can order their delicious breakfast, which is more like a brunch, for only €10’95. This includes:
✓ A traditional farmer’s game ball
✓ Three types of spreads of your choice (per person)
✓ Fresh croissant with butter and jam
✓ A boiled egg
✓ Fresh orange juice
✓ Choice of all coffee and teas
Of course, breakfast is not the only thing Pigalle has to offer. On the menu you can find many French delicacies, from a pain au chocolat or a chausson aux pommes (apple turnover) to delicious sandwiches, quiches and provencettes (hot cakes).
Every day (except Saturday) you are welcome at Pigalle from 2 pm for a delicious extensive high tea (€ 16.50 pp, minimum two people). This high tea includes:
✓ Prosecco or fresh orange juice upon arrival
✓ Twelve types of luxury loose tea & unlimited hot water
✓ Etagère with all kinds of homemade goodies, including macarons, nougat, tarte tatin, sandwiches smoked chicken and sandwiches smoked salmon with cream cheese, and homemade quiche.
Don’t feel like going out? You can also order your favourite sanwiches and drinks from Pigalle via FoodDrop.
Sometimes Pigalle is quite busy, especially for breakfast and high tea, but you have the option to make a reservation beforehand by phone (+31 050 313 78 77) or via this form on their website.
Mr Mofongo
In the heart of Groningen and right next to University of Groningen’s Academy Building, you can find Mr. Mofongo Grand Café-restaurant.
This is the perfect place to enjoy a delicious cup of coffee or any other drink while enjoying the gorgeous view of the university building.
Among their suggestions you will find an extensive menu of nice appetizers, sandwiches or street food, as well as various drinks, from soft drinks to beers and wines. We recommend you try their natural ciders, which are served as a specialty every Friday.
At Mr Mofongo there is a wide variety of food and drinks to suit every taste and budget. For example, the sandwiches go from €5’75 to €11’75, or a cup of coffee like a cappuccino or an espresso macchiato for €2’50.
On their webpage you will be able to make a reservation, in case you want, or just check the drinks and food menu beforehand.
Harbour Café
Harbour Café Groningen is located at Voor ‘t voormalig Klein Poortje 10-11, with its amazing terrace facing the canals.
Do you need to take a break from classes, alone or with your friends? Come to Harbour Café and just chill out while you watch the boats passing by.
This café offers anything from coffee to a unique selection of specialty beers. But that’s not even their best trait. The place organizes their own parties and cruises on their comfortable boat through the Grunneger canals, while you enjoy tasty snacks and matching beers.
Whenever the weather is nice, it will be open daily from 4pm to 12pm (during the week and on Sunday). On Saturday you can visit them from 2pm til 12pm.
Do you want to make a reservation in advance? Here you have the link to go directly for a booking, or you can check their webpage for more information about their events and parties. It can be a good idea to book a table beforehand if you are a big group or you want anything different or special. The staff is always willing to discuss your wishes and will ensure that you have an unforgettable experience!