• An international ranking of the world's 100 best coffee shops in 2025 places Bucharest on the global map of coffee lovers, with Bob Coffee Lab occupying position 46.
The evaluation of coffee shops around the world was based on eight key criteria: coffee quality, barista skill, customer service, innovation, atmosphere, sustainable practices, culinary offerings and consistency. The process combined public voting (30% of the score) with expert opinion (70%), including celebrity baristas, enthusiasts and industry insiders.
A Romanian brand has made its way among the most acclaimed coffee shops internationally. Bob Coffee Lab, a specialty coffee shop in Bucharest, has been included in the prestigious ranking of the 100 best coffee shops in the world in 2025, ranking 46th. This recognition highlights the spectacular evolution of the specialty coffee scene in Romania and the increase in the number of coffee shops that roast their own beans.
Quality, innovation and visual identity
Bob Coffee Lab was founded in 2017 by Alexandru Niculae and Paul Ungureanu, two big names in the coffee industry. Alexandru Niculae won the World Coffee Roasting Championship in 2016, and Paul Ungureanu came in third place at the World Coffee in Good Spirits competition in 2015. Through their vision and passion, they have transformed Bob Coffee Lab into a landmark for coffee lovers.
Since their first space opened at Charles de Gaulle Square no. 3, in an interwar villa near Herăstrău Park, the café has expanded to several locations in Bucharest, including Băneasa Shopping City and Lipscani Street no. 20. One of Bob Coffee Lab's spaces, located near Art Safari, impresses with a design signed by Corvin Cristian. The bar, conceived as a modular installation with scaffolding, adapts to events and exhibitions.
With a keen eye for quality, Bob Coffee Lab roasts carefully selected beans from regions such as Panama and Indonesia, offering an experience complemented by delicious desserts and craft beer. The welcoming atmosphere, innovative design and friendly staff are other assets that have contributed to its success. Since the beginning, the café has attracted customers with personalized products – from mugs and t-shirts to accessories with the BOB logo and the image of a cute puppy – thus strengthening a loyal community.
Ranking of the best cafes in the world
World ranking It is led by Toby's Estate Coffee Roasters from Sydney, Australia, followed by Onyx Coffee LAB from the US and Gota Coffee Experts from Austria. The Top 20 also includes other notable destinations from countries such as Peru, Colombia and Belgium, providing inspiration for coffee-loving travelers. The ranking can serve as a guide to exploring the best experiences of this kind.
The full list of the 100 best cafes can be found on the official website of the competition.
The fact that Bob Coffee Lab managed to rank among the top 50 coffee shops in the world is clear evidence of the growth of the specialty coffee industry in Romania. This achievement not only puts Bucharest on the world map of top coffee shops, but also strengthens the reputation of Romanian specialists in the field.
Article written by Gabriela Dan, Editor-in-Chief Arta Albă
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