The Top 10 Cafes In Cuenca For Freelancers

While freelancers work out of cafes in Cuenca, the concept is still catching on with many restaurant owners. Finding table space won’t be a problem on most weekdays, but it can be hard to find an accessible plug for your equipment. If you’re unsure about setting up shop, be diplomatic and ask. Most cafe staff will go out of their way to accommodate your needs as long as you vacate your table when the lunch crowd arrives.

1. Café de Ñucallacta

Cafe, Contemporary

This cafe comes highly recommended for three top qualities – great coffee, friendly service and fast wifi. The owner speaks English and the crowd is expat more often than Ecuadorian. The courtyard in the back is well-lit and well-protected.

2. Cafe Austria

Cafe, Contemporary

Cafe Austria is a well-known hangout for expats, especially those looking for a traditional European-style cafe. The restaurant makes a great place for freelancers looking to conduct interviews over a meal. Great coffee, good food, though a little pricey. Free wifi but mixed reviews on speed.

3. San Sebas Cafe

Cafe, Contemporary, American

For those looking for an American style brunch, this is your cafe. The great food and excellent coffee attract an international crowd of locals and tourists. Free wifi available; limited plugs. Don’t expect to hold down a table on weekends when the brunch crowd can last for hours.

5. Cafe Melatte

Cafe, Fast Food

Cafe Melatte has the all the freelance basics – good wifi, affordable coffee and plugs for your electronics. They serve both hot coffee and a wide variety of cold coffee drinks and juices.

6. Pachy's Cafe Bar

Cafe, Contemporary

Pachy’s Cafe Bar has a laid-back vibe, while the restaurant is cozy and comfortable. A little off the beaten path for tourists, this is a local’s kind of place. Free wifi, good food and great coffee.

7. Muccha

Cafe, Contemporary

Although Muccha offers a full menu, the cafe is more coffee shop than restaurant. While each of the three locations is unique, all are popular with local residents looking for great pastries and desserts. Freelancers will appreciate the brightly lit surroundings and welcoming staff.

8. Sucre Sale

Cafe, Contemporary

Located on the main plaza at Parque Calderon, Sucre Sale lies in the heart of the historic center of Cuenca. They serve French-style coffee and pastries in an intimate setting. Avoid happy hour if you hope to get any work completed. Limited weekend hours.

9. Bontti Cafe

Cafe, Fast Food

Located on the University of Cuenca, the Bontii Cafe provides a coffee shop environment for students looking to escape the library. This indoor/outdoor space provides a quiet and studious atmosphere.

10. Magnolia Cafe

Cafe, Restaurant, Contemporary, South American

The Magnolia Cafe is located directly on the Plaza Otorongo. With shade-protected tables on the plaza-side and a spacious indoor restaurant, there are plenty of options for setting up shop. The accommodating staff speaks English. Food is top notch, decently priced and well-recommended. The wifi also gets great reviews.

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