#1 Amá Terraza – This rooftop spot tops the list because its city view pairs perfectly with a plate of chilaquiles (around MX$1–100) and a perfectly pulled espresso. The address is Miguel Hidalgo 911 in the historic Centro, and the open‑air terrace lets the morning sun warm the wooden tables. Reviewers love the vegan avocado toast and the natural wine list, but the limited lunch hours on Monday (closing at 3 PM) can be a drawback for weekend wanderers.
#2 Café Nuevo Mundo – A bustling corner of the city, Café Nuevo Mundo earns its place with a solid 4.3 rating and a score of 87.8. Located on a lively street near the market, its signature cinnamon latte costs MX$1–100 and the flaky croissant is a morning staple. The space is larger than Amá Terraza, yet the coffee lacks the same depth of flavor, which is why it sits at #2.
#3 Café Caracol Púrpua – With the highest rating of 4.8, Caracol Púrpua surprises with a quiet courtyard in the Barrio de Jalatlaco. The house‑made horchata latte (priced within MX$1–100) is sweet and creamy, and the surrounding murals give it an artistic vibe. It loses to #2 because its seating is limited and the Wi‑Fi can be spotty during peak hours.
#4 The Italian Coffee Company – A modest 3.9 rating keeps this spot at #4, but its espresso blend sourced from Oaxaca’s highlands is worth a sip. Situated near the university, the café offers a simple espresso macchiato for MX$1–100 and a slice of ricotta‑topped focaccia. The atmosphere feels more like a study hall than a café, which is why it trails the others.
#5 Xiguela Café – Tucked into a quiet alley of the Reforma neighborhood, Xiguela Café rounds out the list with a relaxed vibe and solid 4.5 rating. Their cold brew (MX$1–100) is smooth, and the almond‑milk latte pairs well with a homemade pastel de elote. The main weakness is the inconsistent service on weekends, but the friendly staff and quiet patio keep it in the top five.
If you only try one café in Oaxaca, walk straight to Amá Terraza for the view, the chilaquiles, and the coffee that sets the bar for the whole city.
