The Best Cafés In and Around Analakely, Antananarivo

Cafe de la Gare in Antananarivo, Madagascar
Cafe de la Gare in Antananarivo, Madagascar | © travelmag.com / Flickr

Analakely is the business and commercial center of Antananarivo. Historically it was the location of Madagascar’s first market in the 19th century. It’s also one of city’s most historic areas with its colonial architecture, shopping arcades and large avenues. There are many local cafés and coffee shops in this area and around, and here are nine of the very best.

1. Blanche Neige

Bakery, Cafe, Ice Cream Parlour, Patisserie, Sandwich Shop, Dessert Shop, Coffee Shop, Dessert, Pastries, Ice Cream

Next to the Hotel de Ville, Blanche Neige should be a required stop for breakfast or dessert. Famous for its flavorful ice cream, it serves authentic flaky croissants, creamy chocolates, coffee and vanilla black tea, as well as “sambos” (a Malagasy-style pastry pocket), burgers and sandwiches filled with local vegetables, meats and cheeses. It’s quite a tiny place inside, but the atmosphere is warm and comfortable.

2. Honey

Cafe, Sandwich Shop, Coffee Shop, French, Dessert

Located in the same arcade as Blanche Neige, Honey provides a comfortable setting for a quiet breakfast. A vast choice of colourful ice creams and French patisserie is on display, and varying sweet and salty fritters are the main draw. It’s one of the best places to begin your day or just take a short break in the middle of the day.

3. Café de la Gare

Brasserie, Cafe, Restaurant, Sandwich Shop, Tea Room, French, Dessert

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© travelmag.com / Flickr

Housed in the former railway station of Soarano, Café de la Gare is quiet, elegant and contemporary. Both locals and visitors enjoy having their breakfast here. The restaurant’s menu board lists Caffitaly, Sagafredo, Café Illy, Black or Green Sambavy, and hot chocolate, as well as a selection of alcoholic drinks and beers.

5. Shalimar

Cafe, Tea Room, Coffee Shop, Indian

Shalimar’s “sambos” with various savoury fillings is addictive. These little baked pastry pockets are entirely handmade, from the pastry to the filling. It’s a surprisingly relaxed environment where you can sample Indian tea with or without ginger. The restaurant uses the local ingredients combined with spices from India that provide all the requisites for the Indian-inspired dishes’ good taste.

6. Pâtisserie Colbert

Bakery, Patisserie, Coffee Shop, French, Dessert

Anyone who has visited Tanà should know Pâtisserie Colbert, which serves mainly breakfast, brunch and dessert. Desserts include various cakes and flavorful ice creams. For brunch, its menu lists burgers, sandwiches, and pizza. Don’t leave without sampling its almond croissant as well as crêpes and homemade chocolate.

7. Grand Hôtel Urban

Cafe, Restaurant, Coffee Shop, Mediterranean, Spanish

Located in Ambatonakanga, Grand Hôtel Urban provides an enchanting view from its balcony and rooftop where visitors can enjoy having their coffee. The food here is inspired by Spanish and Mediterranean cuisine. It seeks to seduce with its tapas, paellas and sangrias, but it is also the place to have a filling and fresh breakfast.

8. The Garden of Sakamanga

Diner, Restaurant, Coffee Shop, French

Le Saka (restaurant) has a spiritually enlightening atmosphere inside. It’s also a relaxing and peaceful place outside with a beautiful garden and a swimming pool. It’s a nice place with sophisticated features. The corridor to join the garden looks like a museum with historical items like stamps or notes collection, old posters or unique art pieces.

9. Charlotte

Bakery, Patisserie, Coffee Shop, French, Dessert

Charlotte in Antsahabe is sure to provide a comfortable and pleasant experience. It’s known for its bakery, especially its stunning decorated cakes. And in fitting with its motto, “Be happy at Charlotte,” it offers slices of happiness with a menu of various sweet treats as well as a menu of sandwiches, burgers, and a selection of soft drinks.

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