Sarajevo | the five best places to drink Bosnian coffee

When strolling through the quaint Ottoman quarter of Sarajevo, we couldn’t help but be drawn in by the charm of its countless coffee bars. The aroma of freshly brewed Bosanska kafa filled the air, and the sound of cups clinking on trays seemed to echo from every corner. Sarajevo isn’t just a city where you grab coffee — it’s where you experience it.

In Bosnia and Herzegovina, coffee is served in a džezva, a small copper coffee pot that holds about three cups. It’s presented on a beautifully adorned tray with a fildžan (a small cup), a glass of water, sugar cubes, and a sweet delight called rahat lokum. If you’re new to Bosnian coffee, here’s our tip: let the sugar cube melt under your tongue as you sip for the perfect balance of bitterness and sweetness. After many cups (and lots of sugar cubes), we’ve rounded up our five favorite coffee spots in Sarajevo. Each one offers something special!

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Teahouse Džirlo

Kovači 6 | We stumbled upon Džirlo thanks to Instagram, and honestly? It was love at first sip. While it’s primarily a teahouse, their Bosnian coffee is just as unforgettable. The friendly owner made our visit even better, sharing tips on how to drink Bosnian coffee the “right” way. (Scoop the foam first, pour your cup, and then re-layer the foam on top — game changer!)

We also couldn’t resist trying their salep, a warm, spiced drink that feels like a hug in a cup. The cozy Eastern decor and the welcoming vibe made this our favorite spot in Sarajevo. We came back more than once, and honestly, you’ll want to do the same.

Ministry of Ćejf

Kovači 26 | Just down the street from Džirlo, we found the Ministry of Ćejf, and let’s just say, it’s where we spent an entire afternoon. With a deck of Uno cards and a table full of coffee and desserts, this place quickly became a highlight of our trip.

The café is run by Reshad Strik, an Australian actor rediscovering his Bosnian roots. Beyond Bosnian coffee, they also serve amazing lattes (though a water pressure issue kept us from trying them — next time!). Their carrot cake and salep definitely made up for it.

Bosanska Kafana Index

Kazandžiluk 31 | If we had to pick a favorite for its look, Index would win hands down. The vibrant cushions, cozy corners, and colorful decor made us want to stay all day. Nestled at the end of a charming shopping street, it’s the perfect spot for a coffee break after browsing the nearby shops.

What really caught our attention? You can buy your own džezva set here! Naturally, we couldn’t resist taking one home to recreate the Sarajevo vibe.

Žuta Tabija (Yellow Fortress)

Jekovac | We heard about Žuta Tabija before even arriving in Sarajevo, and it didn’t disappoint. The climb up the hill was worth it for the sweeping views of the city and valley. It’s a popular spot, especially at sunset, so arrive early to snag a good seat.

The coffee here was simple but satisfying, and we loved the relaxed atmosphere. Watching the city lights come alive while sipping coffee? Pure magic.

Baklava Shop Sarajevo

Bravadžiluk 16 | This one was an unplanned find, and we couldn’t be happier about it. If you love baklava (and who doesn’t?), this shop is paradise. They serve Bosnian coffee alongside a huge variety of baklava flavors, including pistachio, walnut, and even Nutella.

We may or may not have ordered more baklava than coffee, but we regret nothing. Pairing a piece of baklava with a cup of Bosnian coffee is a match made in heaven.

Sarajevo’s coffee culture is more than just a caffeine fix — it’s a moment to slow down, connect, and soak in the city’s warmth. From the Instagram-worthy Džirlo to the sunset views at Žuta Tabija! We left Sarajevo with full hearts (and suitcases filled with coffee sets). One thing’s for sure: we’ll be back for more.