10 Book Cafes in India for Bibliophiles

By Boshika Gupta

April 30, 2016

Book cafes are a bibliophile's delight. Here's a list of 10 of the best places to spend hours in without a care in the world!

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Book cafes have become popular among the country’s bibliophiles in recent times. Everyone is looking for a space to read in, to be quiet and comfortable for a few hours. A hot cup of coffee and a piece of cake serve as perfect partners. Here’s a list of book cafes worth visiting around the country:

1. Atta Galata, Bangalore

Source: Zomato

Where: 134, KHB Colony, 5th Block, Koramangala, Bengaluru | 096325 10126

While Atta Galata started as a regional bookstore, it has managed to hold its own with the books and food it offers. Thousands of books are available in several languages, including Telugu, Malayalam, Hindi and English. Don’t forget to try their masala bread and fruit bread.

2. Leaping Windows, Mumbai

Source: Zomato

Where: 3 Corner View, Dr. Ashok Chopra Marg, Off Yari Road, Opp. Bianca Towers, Versova, Andheri West, Mumbai

If you’re a comic book aficionado, this one is especially for you. The café is cosy and has a library in the basement, solely dedicated to comic books for all ages. You can take your cup of coffee and feel at home here, the service is warm and friendly. Order their Vietnamese Iced Coffee for a special kick.

3. Café Turtle, Delhi

Source: Zomato

Where: Shop No. 23, 2nd Floor, Middle Lane, Khan Market, New Delhi

Café Turtle in New Delhi was opened to complement the Full Circle Book Stores. It lets you find a spot you’re comfortable in and read in peace. As a plus, the food on offer is very good too. If you have a sweet tooth, you must try their New York Lemon Cheesecake, you’ll come back for it again for sure!

4. Kitab Khana, Mumbai

Source: Kitab Khana

Where: 375, Veer Nairman Rd, Fort, Mumbai

Kitab Khana is located in a prime area, which makes it even more appealing. There is the hustle and bustle outside but a completely different world inside. Strong coffee – with a massive variety of books – you’ll be spoilt for choice. From hugely popular classics to books that are current bestsellers, there is a little something for everyone.

5. Illiterati, Mcleod Ganj

Source: WordPress

Where: Jogiwara Road, Jogiwara, McLeod Ganj

Nestled comfortably in the mountains, Illiteratti Café is a colourful, vibrant café. Almost always full, this café has the best views you can get. The valley is breathtakingly beautiful and perfect to gaze at while reading and sipping on coffee. The library is well-stocked and won’t let you down.

6. Cha Bar, Oxford Bookstore, Various Cities

Source: Cha Bar

This chain is wildly popular for the unique space that it offers. An extensive menu coupled with a brilliant book collection, they’ve got you covered. You can spend hours here without a care in the world. Be warned, though, they’re really popular – you may not find a book nook easily.

7. Literati, Goa

Source: WordPress

Where: E/1-282, Gauravaddo, Calangute, Bardez, Goa | 0832 2277740

It’s an adorable little Portuguese-style café in Calangute with an irresistible charm. It’s like a dream with its pretty veranda and red-tiled roof. You can expect to get everything here – from pizzas, pastas, delectable desserts to wine and beer for a little pick-me-up.

8. Pagdandi, Pune

Source: Zomato

Where: Shop No. 6, Regent Plaza, Baner – Pashan Link Road, Baner, Pune

Pagdandi has its loyalists who swear by the café. It works on giving a platform to independent publishers. There is a good collection of books to browse through, coupled with plenty of healthy and delicious food options. Take your pick!

9. The Coffee Cup, Hyderabad

Source: Facebook

Where: Behind BP Petrol Bunk, Above Canara Bank, Water Tank Road, Sainikpuri, Dr A.S. Rao Nagar, Secunderabad

The Coffee Cup offers book lovers in Hyderabad a charming hideout, with wooden interiors and a pretty little terrace. There are also board games to help kill boredom. A pretty neat deal, won’t you agree?

10. Cafe Story, Kolkata

Source: Zomato

Where: 2nd Floor, Cafe Story Bookstore, 8, Elgin Road, Elgin, Kolkata.

Here’s another coffee shop that showcases its love for graphics and comics. You can pick and choose while digging into a delicious risotto. They also have sections you can shop from, like Art Street and Ink.