Auroville offers a delightful café scene that perfectly blends local charm with global flavors. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed spot to savor a pastry, enjoy a fresh smoothie bowl, or simply sip coffee with a view, these cafés in Auroville are must-visits.
Here’s your guide to some of the best café experiences Auroville has to offer:
1. Auroville Bakery 🥐
Best For: Freshly baked pastries, breads, and relaxed breakfasts
Highlights: Auroville Bakery is a favorite morning stop, known for its freshly baked breads, croissants, and pastries made from organic ingredients. With outdoor seating and a rustic charm, it’s the perfect spot to ease into the day with a cappuccino and a croissant.
Must-Try: The almond croissant and baguettes are crowd-pleasers, and be sure to pick up a pack of cookies or muffins for later!
2. Café 73
Best For: Cozy atmosphere and quality coffee
Highlights: Café 73 offers a quiet, minimalist ambiance that’s perfect for unwinding over a cup of coffee. Known for its artisanal brews, this café is great for those seeking a peaceful corner to relax or get some work done. Their light bites, including sandwiches and salads, make for a satisfying pairing with their coffee.
Must-Try: Try their hand-brewed coffee and vegan treats for a unique flavor experience in a warm and cozy setting.
3. Bread & Chocolate
Best For: Artisanal chocolate, smoothie bowls, and a modern café vibe
Highlights: Bread & Chocolate is a combination bakery and chocolatier that’s perfect for those with a sweet tooth. Their smoothie bowls are fresh and flavorful, made with sustainable, locally sourced ingredients. The café’s contemporary atmosphere is perfect for a leisurely breakfast or brunch.
Must-Try: The “Chocolate Toast” on homemade sourdough is a must, as are their smoothie bowls, especially the tropical fruit flavors.
4. Hope Café
Best For: Budget-friendly meals with a community feel
Highlights: Hope Café is known for its welcoming ambiance and affordable menu options. It’s a wonderful spot for anyone looking to experience Auroville’s community vibe. With simple yet delicious vegetarian meals and herbal teas, it’s a peaceful place to recharge.
Must-Try: Their veggie sandwiches and herbal teas are refreshing and nourishing.
5. Tanto Pizzeria
Best For: Authentic wood-fired pizzas in a beautiful garden setting
Highlights: Tanto Pizzeria is a beloved spot in Auroville, famous for its wood-fired pizzas loaded with fresh toppings. The garden seating and relaxed atmosphere make it an ideal spot for a long, leisurely meal. Their pizzas are made with locally sourced ingredients and are a great option for lunch or dinner.
Must-Try: The Margherita with basil and the Veggie Delight with seasonal veggies are crowd favorites.
Bonus Adventure Spot: Serenity Beach
Distance: 5 km from Auroville
Best For: Surfing and beach relaxation
Highlights: Serenity Beach is a picturesque spot known for its calm waves, making it ideal for surfing. The beach attracts both beginners and seasoned surfers, and lessons and board rentals are available. Watching surfers catch the waves is just as enjoyable as diving in yourself. It’s a beautiful location to end the day after some café-hopping, with golden sands and serene views.
Café Culture Tips
- Eco-Friendly Choices: Many cafés here emphasize sustainability, so bring your own cup or bag if you’re planning to take treats to go.
- Early Arrivals: Popular spots like Bread & Chocolate and Auroville Bakery can fill up quickly, so getting there early is wise.
- Surf’s Up: For surfing at Serenity Beach, consider scheduling a morning session for gentler waves and smaller crowds.
