Latin America
Lima, Peru
Milimetrica
Milimetrica is one of many A-tier spots I tried on my short trip to Lima. Beautiful and sleek design. Killer mugs (basically all of Lima). And most importantly, a tasty and smooth flatty.
Antidoto
Out of 8 cafes, I was honestly shocked - this was the tastiest flat white I had the whole trip. Very unexpected and unassuming. Definitely not the most “trendy,” but coffee enthusiasts would be ashamed to pass it up. The owner told us how many of his beans come from a region of Peru where a lot of cocaine is grown, and his mission is to reshape people’s perspective of Peru that good things can still come from it!
Raiz Coffee
Extremely small with limited seating. BUT DON’T LET THAT STOP YOU! Another A-tier (and dang close to S-tier) cafe. Perfectly balanced flatty with full nutty flavors. Temperature and milk were exact. A+!
Monotono
Lima is full of great ones. Monotono is a beautiful space with delightful coffee. Another smooth flat white in a stunning minimal black mug. The barista made a great drink and was incredibly kind as he tried to help me with my Spanish. Monotono is great for those who love a modern style.
Kaldis Coffee
Kaldis was probably the most recommended spot I found online, and rightfully so. Definitely a true specialty shop. I had a a washed Peruvian Geisha on Chemex and it was so fruity, an absolute treat.
Ciclos
It was a little harder for me to enjoy Ciclos because we went at like 8 pm (but that’s my fault lol). Either way, it was still a great spot. The cappuccino I ordered was 8 oz (I prefer 6) but still a nice smooth flavor. Ciclos has more of an “upscale” feel which can be fun in a cafe sometimes. And man, check out that white Rancilio. What a stunner. Added bonus: LOTS of seating.
Not quite the banger as some of the others on the list, but a great spot nonetheless. Here’s the way I see it: if I lived in a town where this was my only option, I’d be happy.
Cofaine
The Coffee
Finally, The Coffee. My flat white was good, but slightly burnt (and very hot). Once it cooled it was solid. I went here right after Raiz so I had just had a VERY good drink. However, if you like ultra-modern, super minimal design, this is a sweet place. Half the reason I’m putting it on here.
