Monka Café
About This Spot
Welcome to Monka Café, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Lisbon at R. de Buenos Aires 28A, 1200-625 Lisboa, Portugal. This charming espresso bar and café is not just a place to grab a quick coffee; it's an experience that tantalizes the senses and warms the heart. With its cozy atmosphere and innovative menu, Monka has quickly established itself as a must-visit destination for both locals and travelers alike.
As you step inside, you'll be enveloped by the inviting aroma of freshly brewed coffee and baked goods. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, encouraging you to slow down and take a moment to savor your surroundings. It's the perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely breakfast or indulge in a sweet afternoon treat. However, be prepared: this quaint café fills up quickly, thanks to its growing reputation for quality and taste.
Monka Café prides itself on a menu that beautifully marries Polish and Brazilian flavors, offering a unique twist on classic café fare. One of the highlights is their house-made sourdough bread, which has garnered a passionate following. Customers rave about the grilled cheese, made with gooey, melty cheese that stretches luxuriously from the toasty slices of sourdough, served alongside a vibrant side of tomato dip (“the cheese pull was great!”, says a delighted customer). For those with a taste for sweetness, the croissant pudding and decadent cheesecake are absolute must-tries, as highlighted by satisfied diners.
The coffee at Monka is just as noteworthy, with beans sourced from Polish roasters that ensure every cup is brewed to perfection. Customers like CalliesMateWine share their joy about discovering “just a perfect coffee” and relishing the warmth of the owners, who personally curate the café's welcoming vibe. Whether you’re in the mood for a robust espresso or a creamy latte, you can trust that your drink is crafted with passion and care.
Customer experiences echo the café's dedication to quality. From the sentiment expressed by Sharon Abenhaim, who highlights the fresh, high-quality ingredients and cozy feel, to Andrea Kauenhowen's advice to arrive early for the pastries — which sell out quickly due to their popularity — it's clear that Monka Café values your experience just as much as the food they serve. This is not just a coffee stop; it’s a place where each dish and beverage is crafted to bring joy.
In short, Monka Café is a culinary experience that stands out in Lisbon's vibrant café culture. With a dedication to quality, a friendly atmosphere, and a menu brimming with delightful offerings, it’s a spot where food lovers will find themselves returning again and again. So whether you're a Lisbon local or just passing through, make sure to carve out some time to visit Monka Café — it’s guaranteed to be a highlight of your trip.
What’s Available Here
-
Outdoor seating
-
Takeaway
-
Dine-in
-
Delivery
-
Great coffee
-
Great dessert
-
Great tea selection
-
Breakfast
-
Lunch
-
Solo dining
-
Assistive hearing loop
-
Wheelchair-accessible car park
-
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
-
Wheelchair-accessible seating
-
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
-
Alcohol
-
Coffee
-
Quick bite
-
Small plates
-
Wine
-
Breakfast
-
Brunch
-
Lunch
-
Dessert
-
Seating
-
Toilet
-
Casual
-
Cosy
-
Tourists
-
Credit cards
-
Debit cards
-
NFC mobile payments
-
Credit cards
-
Good for kids
Location & Hours
| Monday | 09:00 AM - 04:00 PM | |
|---|---|---|
| Tuesday | Closed | |
| Wednesday | Closed | |
| Thursday | 09:00 AM - 04:00 PM | |
| Friday | 09:00 AM - 04:00 PM | |
| Saturday | 09:00 AM - 04:00 PM | |
| Sunday | 09:00 AM - 04:00 PM |
Brianna Mac 27 Nov 2025
Cafe Monka was the first stop on my friends and I’s trip to Portugal, we found it honestly by looking at the highest rated cafés that were on the way to our apartment. Café Monka did not disappoint! While we were only passing through, my friend and I got the grilled cheese which came with a side of tomato dip. the grilled cheese was made on in-house made sourdough bread and the cheese pull was gorgeously good. It came fresh and warm and the side tomato added just the right texture. We also had a fresh orange juice and a coffee latte! Both were made very well! This café was very small in terms of the space and atmosphere, but it was very happening and busy! We really really appreciated the workers for accommodating our suitcases and bags since we had just come from the airport! Obrigada & Spaseba Café Monka!
CalliesMateWine 16 Nov 2025
Just a perfect coffee on my first day back in Lisbon - met the owners too - such lovely people. Just found out they do orders for the sourdough bread - in advance only! Very recommended!
Andrea Kauenhowen 01 Nov 2025
I’ve been back here twice this week — really great sourdough, pastries, & coffee. Get there early if you want to try pastries because they do sell out! No laptops allowed - it’s not the spot to work from. I tried the Monka eggs and the croissant pudding, both were delicious.
Sharon Abenhaim 10 Oct 2025
So cozy! So nice and want to make you feel great and they make it! The food is fresh and high quality! The coffee is great! It get busy and because its a small place you might wait but it’s worth it!!!
Jan Dudzik 05 Oct 2025
Nestled in the west side of Lisbon, it maybe be one of the most innovative cafes in Lisbon, going way beyond the usual, instead opting for a tasty mix of Polish and Brazilian ingredients in a range of simple yet great dishes (pancakes and cheesecake were amazing). Even coffee beans are imported from Polish roasters, making it an interesting experience overall. For those who seek pastries, there is a mix of options. The space is small, with plenty of daylight, music playing at a friendly volume, allowing for a conversation. Friendly vibe of the owners elevates the experience.
Eugenia Iugai 23 Sep 2025
Great vibe and delicious food! I love stopping by for breakfast—the coffee is amazing, and they offer a variety of breakfast options featuring their own baked sourdough bread, which is absolutely delicious.
Rylee J 03 Aug 2025
Incredible food, service, coffee. They were so kind to allow us to store our luggage in a secure area as we were traveling
Tolvolay 01 Aug 2025
Monka Café – A True Gem in Lisbon! My visit to Monka Café was simply unforgettable! The atmosphere is warm and cozy, making it the perfect place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. The cappuccino was a true work of art – the latte art was flawless, and the taste was just as heavenly, striking the perfect balance between strength and creaminess. The pastry filled with fresh cheese was a delight. The crispy poppy seed crust combined with the fresh herb filling made for a unique culinary experience. And let’s not forget the fresh crepes, served with a variety of fruits and a generous dollop of whipped cream. A sweet temptation I can highly recommend! If you’re looking for a spot where quality, taste, and ambiance come together in perfect harmony, Monka Café is the place to be. I’ll definitely be coming back!