Luxembourg

A family patisserie with routes going back to the mid-19th century, Namur is still run by descendants of the founding father and continues to delight with delectable pastries and desserts in Luxembourg and beyond. There is a very broad selection of sweets on offer, and a weekly lunch menu is served at select locations.

A place with character, Bistrot de la Presse is a haunt long-frequented by locals. Portraits of the royal family hang on the walls, and members of the Luxembourgish parliament are known to hop across the street to grab a bite or a pint – you might well run into some, tucking into the bistro's no-frills local fare.

Luxembourg's most respectable chocolatier runs a popular café right across from Palais Grand-Ducal, in a beautiful historic building dating back to the 15th century. The speciality here is hot chocolate: take a pick from the impressive display of wooden spoons stuck in solid chunks of chocolate featuring a variety of flavours, from familiar to rather exotic, and watch the solid block dissolve in a cup of hot milk turning into a warming beverage. There is an abundance of sweet treats and cakes to go along, as well as savoury lunch options.

Affordable options are hard to come by in the heart of Luxembourg City, but Charles is a pleasant exception: with fresh sandwiches, burgers, and well-dressed American-style salads that will fit any taste, there is hardly a better bargain in the area.

Arguably the finest patisserie chain in Luxembourg, Oberweis is the place to go for delicate fruit-topped tartelettes, cream-filled eclairs, and all manner of artfully crafted desserts. Savoury lunches are also served here. There are several locations across Luxembourg.

The vintage extravaganza that is Kaale Kaffi cares little about uniform interior design — the space is furnished with mismatched yet oh-so-comfy armchairs and couches, and walls adorned with eclectic artwork — instead placing emphasis on a welcoming atmosphere, homemade food, and great coffee. It attracts an artsy crowd, including for evening drinks.