Situated in historic Zona 1 and within walking distance to the Palacio Nacional de la Cultura and Mercado Central, Café Leon is Guatemala City’s pioneer coffee shop, selling its famous coffee by the cup or the package (an ideal souvenir). The café is cool and soothing in cream colored columns and dark wood, and customers (many of whom are politicians from the nearby Congress) can pick swivel chairs at the counter or tables.

Luscious cakes, tortes, and pastries are on hand, as well as full lunches or early dinners of Guatemalan fare. Come for the coffee and stay for the Spanish-inspired atmosphere and fresh eats.

Hours

Monday through Thursday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Friday, 7 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed on Sunday.