Palazzo Stratti Caffè degli Specchi
Step into Trieste's past at this elegant, historic cafe, famed for its mirrors, piazza views, and traditional coffee.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm atmosphere, perfect for breakfast.
Palazzo Stratti Caffè degli Specchi
Best Time
Calm atmosphere, perfect for breakfast.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into Trieste's past at this elegant, historic cafe, famed for its mirrors, piazza views, and traditional coffee.
"An upscale, historic café with a truly charming atmosphere and excellent service."
☕ Savor the Coffee Experience
Try a traditional coffee with a side of chocolate for a delightful treat.
🥐 Delicious Pastries
Don't miss the amazing croissants and sweet delights, perfect for breakfast.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Interior
Immerse yourself in an elegant, old-world atmosphere with charming decor.
Piazza Views
Enjoy breathtaking views of the grand square from outdoor seating.
Traditional Coffee & Pastries
Savor classic Italian coffee, hot chocolate, and delicious brioches.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Historic Ambiance
Piazza Dining Considerations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☕ Savor the Coffee Experience
Try a traditional coffee with a side of chocolate for a delightful treat.
🥐 Delicious Pastries
Don't miss the amazing croissants and sweet delights, perfect for breakfast.
Citytrip recommendations
Best pizza and coffee in Trieste?
🐶 Dog-Friendly Spot
Bring your furry friends along; they are warmly welcomed here!
🕊️ Piazza Wildlife
Be mindful of pigeons and seagulls when dining outdoors; they may approach.
In Trieste for the next six months
Tips
from all over the internet
☕ Savor the Coffee Experience
Try a traditional coffee with a side of chocolate for a delightful treat.
🥐 Delicious Pastries
Don't miss the amazing croissants and sweet delights, perfect for breakfast.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Spot
Bring your furry friends along; they are warmly welcomed here!
🕊️ Piazza Wildlife
Be mindful of pigeons and seagulls when dining outdoors; they may approach.
🕰️ Relaxed Service
Service can be a bit slower, especially during peak times. Enjoy the unhurried Italian pace.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
This historic cafe offers a charming, old-world ambiance with beautiful piazza views, making it a lovely spot for a relaxed coffee or breakfast. While many praise the pastries and welcoming atmosphere, some find the food quality inconsistent and service a bit slow. Be prepared for potential wildlife encounters if dining outdoors.
"Such a nice place to sit and relax, and enjoy the great view of the square in front, in a restaurant with an elegant, historic feel. I had a lovely breakfast fruit plate and coffee. The atmosphere was calm and the staff didn't fuss or make me feel rushed.
There are doves/seagulls around, but that's just what you get in a city and near the sea. They were not aggressive, but easily went away when you waved in their general direction."
Christina Nessa
"Do you know what kindness means?
Kindness is when someone helps you when you’re most in need. My boyfriend and I were craving something sweet, and the guys at this place came through for us. Even though it was late on a Tuesday night and they were literally closing and packing up, they offered to prepare some sweet delights for takeaway. They packed everything with great care, very discreetly and with top-quality packaging. When we came home, we enjoyed the beautiful sweetness of what they had to offer."
Prentovic Ljiljana
"This is an upscale, historic café with a truly charming atmosphere. The place feels elegant and exclusive, yet the staff are very warm, welcoming, and attentive. Service is excellent. Whatever you order to drink, it’s accompanied by small snack like chips, peanuts, and cocktail toasts. They are also dog-friendly !"
Benoit
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Palazzo Stratti Caffè degli Specchi is centrally located in Piazza Unità d'Italia, Trieste's main square. It's easily accessible on foot from most central locations and is a short walk from the Trieste Centrale train station. Trams and buses also stop nearby.
Parking in Piazza Unità d'Italia is limited. It's best to use public transport or a taxi. Several paid parking garages are available within a 10-15 minute walk, such as the Saba Park San Giusto.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission ticket required to enter the cafe. You can walk in and enjoy the ambiance, or sit at a table for food and drinks.
The cafe generally opens in the morning and stays open until late evening. It's advisable to check their specific hours closer to your visit, as they can vary seasonally.
There is no strict dress code, but given its elegant, historic atmosphere, many visitors dress smart-casual. It's a place to feel a bit special, so dressing up slightly can enhance the experience.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The atmosphere is described as elegant, historic, and charming, with an old-world feel. It's a place to relax and enjoy the grand piazza views without feeling rushed.
Yes, outdoor seating is available in the piazza, offering wonderful views. However, be prepared for potential interactions with pigeons and seagulls.
Yes, the cafe is dog-friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners to relax.
When you order a drink, it's typically accompanied by small snacks like chips, peanuts, and cocktail toasts, adding to the upscale experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Visitors highly recommend the breakfast items, including fruit plates, delicious croissants, and sweet treats like brioches. Traditional coffee and hot chocolate are also popular choices.
While specific options aren't detailed, the cafe offers pastries, fruit plates, and coffee drinks. It's best to inquire directly about vegetarian or vegan choices upon arrival.
Prices are generally considered above average for Trieste, reflecting its historic location and upscale ambiance. It's a place for a treat rather than a budget meal.
Reviews are mixed on the food. While many praise the breakfast items and pastries, some find dishes like pasta to be disappointing. It's often recommended more for drinks and the atmosphere.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the stunning interior with its ornate details and mirrors. The exterior shots of the cafe against the backdrop of Piazza Unità d'Italia are also iconic.
Early mornings on weekdays offer the best light and fewest people for photography, both inside and outside the cafe.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be prepared for the presence of pigeons and seagulls if you opt for outdoor seating, as they can be curious about food. Keeping snacks secured and perhaps choosing indoor seating might be a good strategy for families with very young children. The relaxed pace of service also means you won't feel rushed, allowing everyone to enjoy their treats at their own speed.
🐶 Pet Owners
Enjoying a coffee or a pastry while your dog rests comfortably nearby adds a special touch to your Trieste exploration. It's a welcoming environment that caters to both human and canine visitors, making it a convenient and pleasant stop.
☕ Coffee Connoisseurs & History Buffs
Take your time to admire the ornate decor, the mirrors that give the cafe its name, and the grand piazza outside. It’s an experience that goes beyond just a beverage; it’s about immersing yourself in the cultural heritage and the unique atmosphere that has drawn people here for over a century.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Taste of Trieste's History
Many visitors are drawn to the cafe for its venerable atmosphere and the feeling of stepping back in time. The decor, with its classic furnishings and intricate details, transports you to a different period. It's a place where conversations have flowed for generations, and the walls seem to hold countless stories. The cafe's prime location on Piazza Unità d'Italia, one of Europe's largest waterfront squares, adds to its allure, offering spectacular views and a vibrant setting.
While the ambiance is a major draw, the cafe also serves traditional Italian coffee, pastries, and light snacks. It's a spot to indulge in a leisurely breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up. The experience is about savoring the moment, enjoying the view, and soaking in the rich cultural heritage of Trieste. It’s a recommended stop for anyone wanting to experience the authentic spirit of the city.
Navigating the Piazza Experience
However, dining al fresco in a bustling piazza often comes with its own set of characters. Visitors frequently mention the presence of pigeons and seagulls that are drawn to the area. While generally not aggressive, these birds can be persistent in their attempts to share your meal. Redditors advise being mindful and keeping food covered or secured when not actively eating. Waving them away usually suffices, but it's something to be prepared for if you choose outdoor seating.
Despite the occasional avian visitor, the experience of enjoying a coffee or a pastry with the sea breeze and the magnificent piazza as your backdrop is highly rewarding. It’s part of the authentic urban experience in a coastal city. For those who prefer a more controlled environment, the cafe's elegant interior offers a comfortable alternative without the wildlife encounters.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit