The global coffee industry celebrated a landmark moment as the second edition of The World's 100 Best Coffee Shops was officially presented during CoffeeFest Madrid 2026. This prestigious ranking, which has quickly become one of the most anticipated highlights of the international coffee festival, serves as the first global list dedicated to recognizing excellence in specialty coffee establishments worldwide.
Global Recognition for Specialty Coffee Excellence
The publication of this comprehensive list confirms the emergence of new global capitals of quality coffee while highlighting the consolidation of an increasingly diverse, professional, and innovative international coffee community. The ranking showcases coffee shops from more than thirty countries, demonstrating the truly global nature of specialty coffee culture today.
United States Leads with Nine Selected Establishments
The United States emerged as the leading nation in the ranking with nine selected coffee shops, followed closely by Australia with seven establishments. Peru secured five spots on the prestigious list, while Spain, Honduras, and Taiwan each claimed four positions among the world's elite coffee destinations.
Cesar Ramirez, CEO of The World 100 Best Coffee Shops, emphasized the ranking's global perspective: "In the end, we are embracing global trends. Coffee shop culture continues to grow, and this ranking aims to give greater visibility to more coffee shops worldwide. Throughout the year, we will also unveil the continental lists that reflect this expansion."
Onyx Coffee Lab Claims Top Honors
Onyx Coffee Lab, based in Arkansas, USA, earned the distinguished title of the world's best coffee shop in this edition. The establishment was recognized for its exceptional commitment to specialty coffee, technical innovation, and strong connection with the global coffee community.
Guided by the motto "Never Settle for Good Enough," this philosophy shapes every aspect of Onyx Coffee Lab's operations. From meticulous sourcing of coffees at their origins to rigorous roast control, the implementation of solar energy solutions, and a strong commitment to continuous training for baristas and partners, the establishment exemplifies excellence across all dimensions of specialty coffee production and service.
International Podium Finishers
The prestigious podium was completed by two other exceptional establishments. Tim Wendelboe from Oslo, Norway, secured second place as a global reference in specialty coffee led by the award-winning barista and roaster of the same name. Alquimia Coffee from Santa Ana, El Salvador, claimed third position as a micro-roastery working directly at origin and promoting Salvadoran coffee through a contemporary proposal deeply rooted in its territory.
Rigorous Evaluation Process
The ranking was produced through a sophisticated mixed evaluation system combining professional assessment with public participation. More than 800 professional judges from all continents contributed their expertise, while public voting exceeded 350,000 votes in this edition. In total, the evaluation process analyzed more than 15,000 coffee shops from around the world.
Eloise Dubuisson, General Manager of Food Service Brands at Kerry Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, commented on the significance of the ranking: "The World's 100 Best Coffee Shops is the global benchmark celebrating the cafés shaping the future of coffee, and DaVinci Gourmet is proud to stand alongside it as the global title sponsor. We extend our congratulations to all 100 ranked coffee shops recognized for their creative craftsmanship, innovative spirit, and meaningful influence on the global coffee landscape."
The complete list of The World's 100 Best Coffee Shops 2026 is available for coffee enthusiasts and industry professionals to explore, offering a comprehensive guide to global excellence in specialty coffee establishments.
