The Best Cafés in Dakar

Dakar runs on coffee. Between the fragrant café Touba spiced with Selim pepper sold on every corner and modern wifi-equipped coffee shops, the capital offers a rich, accessible coffee culture. Here's how to find your ideal spot.

Café Touba, an institution

You can't talk about coffee in Dakar without mentioning café Touba, a local spiced brew made with djar (Selim pepper) and sometimes cloves. You drink it standing in the street, served by roving vendors for 100 to 300 FCFA a cup. It's the true Senegalese people's coffee — energizing and social. A cultural must as much as a drink.

Modern coffee shops

In recent years, a new generation of cafés has emerged, especially in the Plateau, Point E, Mermoz and Les Almadies. Espresso, cappuccino, matcha, homemade pastries: the vibe is often design-forward, quiet and work-friendly. A coffee usually costs 1,500 to 3,500 FCFA, and a breakfast set 4,000 to 9,000 FCFA.

Where to work with a laptop

Many Dakar cafés have become informal coworking spaces. To work comfortably, favor:

• Plateau: near offices, quiet cafés during the day.
• Point E & Fann: student and creative district, good wifi.
• Almadies: pleasant terraces, more relaxed vibe.

Always check for power outlets and connection quality before settling in for several hours. Order regularly to stay welcome — it's the unspoken rule.

Terrace cafés with a sea view

Since Dakar is a peninsula, several cafés offer an ocean view, notably along the Corniche and in Les Almadies. Perfect for a late-afternoon coffee facing the sunset. Prices are a bit higher, but the setting often justifies the spend.

Our tips by use

• Business meeting: Plateau, quiet and well-located cafés.
• Work / freelance: Point E, Mermoz, reliable wifi.
• Relaxing / brunch: Almadies, Ngor, laid-back vibe.
• Local experience: street café Touba, everywhere.

Budget-wise, remember:

• Street café Touba: 100–300 FCFA
• Espresso / cappuccino: 1,500–3,500 FCFA
• Breakfast set: 4,000–9,000 FCFA

Find a café near you

Browse cafés and restaurants across Senegal by city and type on Senefinder, with hours and direct WhatsApp contact: see restaurants and cafés. In Dakar? Discover every listing in the city of Dakar.

Enjoy your cup!