Caffe Ateneo

Via Maqueda, 170, 90133 Palermo PA, Italy
$$$ cafe
(149 Reviews)
Price Range €1–10

Located in the vibrant heart of Palermo, Caffe Ateneo is more than just a café—it's a cherished daily ritual for both locals and visitors alike. Nestled on Via Maqueda, this inviting spot serves as a delightful escape where the aromas of freshly brewed coffee and warm pastries wrap around you like a comforting embrace.

Caffe Ateneo excels in crafting the perfect Italian breakfast experience. Known for its legendary brioche, each bite reveals a soft, pillowy texture generously filled with sweet cream or delectable gelato—a true indulgence that keeps patrons returning for more. The coffee here is not just good; it has gained a reputation amongst coffee aficionados as the best in Palermo. Whether you opt for a rich espresso or a velvety cappuccino, you're in for a treat that dances on your palate with depth and flavor.

But the allure doesn’t stop there. Reviews from delighted customers echo the café's commitment to quality and service. One recurring theme is the outstanding granita, an icy Sicilian treat that perfectly complements the morning sun while leaving you refreshed. Patrons have praised the consistency of the staff's kindness, ensuring that every visit feels like catching up with old friends. As noted by the customer ‘Corner Toe,’ even with its touristy appeal, the café stands out for its quality—no dry pastries here, just fresh goodness served every morning.

The café's ambiance is quintessentially Sicilian. With its welcoming decor and lively atmosphere, it’s an ideal spot to pause and soak up the captivating energy of Palermo. You might just find yourself seated next to a group of locals engrossed in lively conversation or a couple savoring their early morning moments over coffee and pastries. The cheery vibe is like a warm hug for all who enter, making it a go-to spot for breakfast or an afternoon break.

Caffe Ateneo isn’t just a café; it’s a hub where flavors, community, and culture converge. With fair prices and quick, friendly service, it’s no wonder guests like LauraD have found it to be the perfect start to their day. So if your travels bring you to Palermo, make sure to stop by this beloved establishment; your taste buds will thank you for the exquisite experience!

Service options
Outdoor seating
Takeaway
Dine-in
Delivery
Highlights
Great coffee
Popular for
Breakfast
Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Coffee
Quick bite
Small plates
Spirits
Wine
Dining options
Breakfast
Dessert
Seating
Amenities
Bar on site
Toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Crowd
Groups
Tourists
Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
Pets
Dogs allowed
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

07:00 AM - 08:00 PM

Tuesday

07:00 AM - 08:00 PM

Wednesday

07:00 AM - 08:00 PM

Thursday

07:00 AM - 08:00 PM

Friday

07:00 AM - 08:00 PM

Saturday

07:00 AM - 08:00 PM

Sunday

Closed

149 Reviews
Corner Toe

17 Sep 2025

This place was my breakfast place every morning for about 9 days. They were always consistently nice and friendly and the pastries were really good. The granita was super nice as well as the coffee. Yes it may seem touristy and it is a bit but at least, they aren’t ripping off people with old and dry pastries.

Agence WebPlus

29 Aug 2025

By far, the BEST brioches in Palermo. Soft, and generously stuffed. Fair prices, quick and nice service. The perfect place for a breakfast

LauraD

05 Aug 2025

Great coffee and things to eat in the morning. The location is very good too.

Kim McFayden

29 Jul 2025

Best coffee in Palermo (we tried a lot!) and divine honey croissants! We had coffee here four mornings in a row while staying in Palermo.

Elwin Lee

22 Jul 2025

Stopped here for a quick coffee break. Nice espresso. The staff was alright.

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