Cafe

Café Hélène

4.7 · 1,171 reviews
Café HélèneCafé Hélène
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Café Hélène is a charming café located in the upscale Lourdes district of Belo Horizonte, Brazil. It offers a serene escape from the city's bustle, with a warm interior featuring exposed brick, wooden shelves, and plants. The café specializes in high-quality coffee sourced from Brazilian producers, prepared with care by skilled baristas. The menu also includes light bites like pastries, sandwiches, and salads, all made with fresh ingredients. The atmosphere is calm and inviting, making it ideal for reading, working, or meeting friends. The staff is knowledgeable and passionate about coffee, often happy to discuss brewing methods. Its location on Rua Santa Catarina puts it near other cultural spots, making it a great pit stop.

Don't miss

  • Sip a single-origin pour-over coffee from Minas Gerais.
  • Try the pão de queijo (cheese bread) – a Brazilian classic.
  • Relax in the cozy back room with sofas and art books.
  • Attend a coffee tasting workshop (check schedule).
  • Enjoy a slice of bolo de cenoura (carrot cake) with coffee.

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Café Hélène

You don't need a tour to visit — entry is free. A tour is worth it if you want transport, a guide, or to combine Café Hélène with nearby sights in one day. That's what these do well.

Know before you go

  • The café can get busy during lunch hours; arrive early.
  • Credit cards are accepted.
  • Free Wi-Fi is available.
  • They offer some vegan and gluten-free options.

A bit of history

Café Hélène opened in 2015, part of Belo Horizonte's growing specialty coffee scene. The café is named after the owner's grandmother, reflecting a family-oriented approach to hospitality.

Common questions

What type of coffee do they serve?

They serve specialty Brazilian coffees, including espresso, pour-over, and cold brew.

Do they have food options?

Yes, they offer pastries, sandwiches, salads, and cakes.

Is there outdoor seating?

Yes, a few tables are available on the sidewalk.

Can I buy coffee beans?

Yes, they sell bags of their house-roasted beans.

Is the café family-friendly?

Yes, children are welcome, and they have a small play area.

What are the opening hours?

Typically 8 AM to 8 PM, but check their Instagram for updates.

More attractions in Belo Horizonte

Planning your trip to Belo Horizonte? See where to eat, more attractions, or build a Belo Horizonte itinerary.