There’s a particular kind of joy that comes with finding the perfect café. For digital nomads, it’s not just about coffee—it’s about that sweet intersection of reliable Wi-Fi, strong espresso, and a vibe that makes work feel (almost) like a pleasure.
As someone who’s been living out of backpacks and carry-ons, I’ve typed, clicked, and Zoom-called from café corners across continents. Some places felt like a second home; others were fleeting but unforgettable. Here’s a rundown of the best cafés I’ve worked from so far—each with its own rhythm, energy, and magic.
1. The Workshop Café – Saigon, Vietnam
Tucked away in an old colonial building in Ho Chi Minh City, The Workshop has become something of a pilgrimage site for remote workers. The high ceilings, industrial interior, and generous tables make it ideal for deep work sessions. There’s just enough buzz to keep you alert, but not so much that it breaks your concentration.
The coffee? Next level. They take their beans seriously, offering everything from cold brews to meticulous pour-overs. And yes, the Wi-Fi holds up, even during peak hours.
Best for: Long focus sprints, client calls, and people-watching from the mezzanine.
2. Pijja Palace (Yes, Really) – Los Angeles, USA
This one might raise eyebrows—why would a pizza spot be on a list of digital nomad cafés? But hear me out: during off-peak hours, Pijja Palace in East Hollywood turns into an unexpectedly ideal co-working haven. With low lighting, big tables, and surprisingly stable Wi-Fi, it became my secret productivity bunker while in LA.
Add to that the fact that you can reward yourself with Indian-inspired wings or tandoori spaghetti once you finish your to-do list? Win-win.
Best for: Late afternoon work sessions and post-task comfort food.
3. Typika Artisan Roasters – Perth, Australia
A bright, open space with top-tier coffee and an always-friendly crowd, Typika in Perth quickly became one of my favorite places to get stuff done. It’s a local favorite for good reason: the food is exceptional (think smashed avo with a twist), and the staff never rush you—even if you’re deep into hour three of a spreadsheet marathon.
It also gets great natural light, which somehow makes those long emails feel a little less soul-sucking.
Best for: Brunch + work combos, journaling, and early-morning productivity.
4. Little Red Fox – Siem Reap, Cambodia
This cozy gem in the heart of Siem Reap’s creative quarter is small in size but huge in charm. Little Red Fox is where I went to reset. The energy is relaxed, the playlists are always on point, and it attracts a crowd of travelers and remote workers who respect the unspoken co-working code: keep your calls quiet, and your coffee flowing.
Their iced latte and banana bread combo got me through more writing blocks than I can count.
Best for: Writing, planning, and quiet mornings before temple runs.
5. Cream Café – Lisbon, Portugal
If Lisbon had a café MVP, Cream would be on the shortlist. Set in the artsy Santos district, this café blends modern design with a relaxed work-friendly atmosphere. You’ll find everyone from designers and startup founders to travel bloggers tucked into corners with MacBooks and oat lattes.
The food leans healthy but hearty—think smoothie bowls, sourdough toasts, and freshly squeezed everything. And unlike some trendy spots, no one’s giving you side-eye if you’ve been working for hours.
Best for: Midweek remote work marathons and casual networking.
6. Roots & Bulbs – London, UK
London isn’t short on good coffee, but Roots & Bulbs earned its spot on this list because of its no-fuss ambiance and health-forward menu. Tucked near Marylebone, it’s perfect for remote workers who need to grab a nutritious bite between tasks without losing momentum.
It’s not loud, it’s not flashy—it’s just consistently solid, which sometimes is all you really want when your brain’s juggling three deadlines and a client call in another time zone.
Best for: Quick productive stops between meetings and recharging with clean eats.
7. Revolver Espresso – Bali, Indonesia
Ah, Bali—land of smoothies, scooters, and some of the best café culture on the planet. Revolver Espresso in Seminyak stands out not just for its legendary coffee, but for its speakeasy-style interior and creative energy. It’s a little moody, a little artsy, and wildly productive if you come during quiet hours.
Plus, it’s a favorite among nomads, so don’t be surprised if you end up chatting about UX design or crypto over a flat white.
Best for: Creative bursts, vibey work sessions, and community connection.
What Makes a Café “Workable”?
Over time, I’ve realized that a great café to work from doesn’t have to be perfect. It just needs to strike the right balance between:
- Reliable Wi-Fi (non-negotiable)
- Comfortable seating and table space
- Good coffee or food—ideally both
- Ambient noise that fuels focus, not distraction
- Friendly staff who don’t mind laptops
It’s less about aesthetics and more about flow. The best ones let you melt into the background and just get into your zone.
The Nomadic Work Desk, Redefined
There’s something poetic about building a business or writing a blog post in a café halfway across the world. In these spaces—surrounded by locals, other travelers, and the comforting hiss of a milk steamer—you’re reminded that productivity doesn’t have to come from a cubicle. It can come from anywhere, as long as you have focus, Wi-Fi, and maybe just the right pastry.
I’ll keep discovering new favorites. But these? These have earned a permanent place in my digital nomad memory bank.
