Café Am Kaufhof

Café Am Kaufhof sits quietly on Schlutuper Str. in Lübeck, offering a straightforward but reliable spot for coffee, fresh pastries, and seasonal ice cream flavors like sea buckthorn and strawberry. It’s the kind of place locals seem to turn to for a quick coffee break or a casual sweet treat, especially if you have a nostalgic fondness for traditional German pastries.

The vibe here is unpretentious and simple—furniture and decor don’t aim for flair but instead keep things functional. This makes it less about lingering for hours and more about comfort and familiarity. It’s busy enough to feel like a neighborhood hub, with a steady rotation of visitors, including families picking up cakes, office workers grabbing a quick bite, and regulars coming for the distinct Berliner variations and popular spritz pastries.

On warmer days, the ice cream options provide a refreshing complement to their baked goods, lending a summertime appeal. Many locals use this café as a pit stop during errands or a casual meeting point, appreciating the friendly and attentive service that makes the experience feel personal rather than rushed.

One practical note for visitors: payment is strictly cash-based, which may catch some off guard. Also, if you’re coming around major holidays like New Year’s Eve, the café is known for its Berliners, though ordering and collection follow a traditional, somewhat old-fashioned process that requires a bit more planning than usual.

Those who value solid, freshly made pastries without fancy frills will find themselves right at home. Whether you’re after a warm spritz pastry on a winter afternoon or one of their unique seasonal ice creams during summer, Café Am Kaufhof keeps to its craft with a focus on quality and local favorites rather than trends.