El Café de Porfirio offers more than just a cup of coffee – it’s a cultural and creative hub in the heart of Asunción! Combining a cozy café, an art bookstore, and a space for art workshops, it creates a dynamic atmosphere where art lovers and coffee enthusiasts can enjoy both local culture and creativity. Here’s a closer look at what makes El Café de Porfirio truly special.
A Coffee Experience Like No Other
Step inside, and you’ll find a peaceful haven where visitors can sip expertly brewed coffee, surrounded by the vibrant energy of local art. The cozy ambiance is enhanced by artwork adorning the walls, with art materials available for purchase. Alongside a diverse coffee menu, the café serves traditional Paraguayan treats like cocido (a traditional drink) and freshly baked chipa (cheese bread), offering a true taste of local flavor.
For a fun twist on breakfast or brunch, the café introduces its colorful toast selection. Named after primary colors such as bermellón (vermilion) and cadmio (cadmium), these toasts are popular among guests who enjoy a playful take on traditional morning fare.
However, it’s the coffee that steals the show. Brewed from high-quality beans sourced from Brazil and roasted locally in Asunción, El Café de Porfirio’s coffee is a standout. Whether you’re here for a quiet moment or catching up with friends, it’s a place to unwind and savor every sip.
A Café, Art School, and Art Store All in One
What sets El Café de Porfirio apart is its deep connection to the arts. Beyond the café itself, the building houses an art school and an art supply store. Patrons can explore a variety of art materials — paints, brushes, and canvases — all used by local artists. Upstairs, the art school offers workshops for both adults and children, where they can learn techniques like drawing and oil painting, giving you a chance to engage with the local art scene firsthand.
El Café de Porfirio prides itself on fostering creativity in an inclusive atmosphere. Rather than charging for access, they encourage visitors to simply enjoy the space, offering free art supplies for anyone who wishes to express themselves. “We give people a pencil and paper, and they can draw whatever they want. It’s really about welcoming everyone,” says the manager. This spirit of inclusivity truly sets the café apart as a space to explore and create.
A Quirky Café Full of Hidden Surprises!
More than just a café, El Café de Porfirio blends the worlds of art and coffee in a way that feels natural and inspiring. “We didn’t want just another café or art space. We wanted a place where art isn’t just something you see on the wall—it’s something you can experience and learn about firsthand,” says the manager.
And speaking of art, keep an eye out for quirky surprises while you’re there. The café has humorous art ‘clues’, which visitors love to discover. For example, the ceiling paintings depict famous people who are no longer with us. The tables are also decorated with prints of famous art, and the menu is designed in the shape of a wooden palette on which artists mix colours. If you look at the pillars outside, you might find a pencil hidden in one of them. It is playfulness like this that makes El Café de Porfirio more than just a café experience.
History of El Café de Porfirio: Founded by Artist Porfirio Busto
The origins of El Café de Porfirio are rooted in the vision of its founders, renowned artists Porfirio Busto and his wife, Fátima Busto. Combining their shared passion for art, the couple envisioned a space that blended creativity with community. Porfirio, a master of painting and drawing, is also known for his educational contributions, including the long-running television program Dibujando con Porfirio, which helped shape Paraguay’s artistic culture. Together, they created a legacy that continues to inspire both local and international artists today.
El Café de Porfirio: A Space for All
El Café de Porfirio strives to provide a welcoming space for everyone, from families with children to those with disabilities. It even boasts a pet-friendly policy, offering water to dogs and a designated outdoor seating area for larger pets. For those who need a quiet place to work, the café is also an ideal spot for co-working, with free Wi-Fi and plenty of outlets.
But the experience doesn’t end there. El Café de Porfirio also hosts live music nights and live drawing sessions several times a year, where you can watch local artists, including Porfirio Busto himself, create art in front of you. This vibrant mix of art and culture is what makes this café so special.
Art Displays and Sales
Throughout the café, you’ll find an impressive display of local artwork. While all pieces are available for purchase, the primary focus is on creating an atmosphere where art can be appreciated and enjoyed. “We’ve had visitors from abroad who saw a painting and wanted to take a piece of Paraguay with them, even shipping it overseas,” the Manager explains.
Looking to the Future
El Café de Porfirio is continuing to grow and evolve, with plans to introduce more events and workshops. As a key player in the local creative scene, the café remains a go-to destination for both locals and tourists seeking to experience the best of Paraguayan coffee and art.
Visit El Café de Porfirio
El Café de Porfirio is open from Monday to Saturday, from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, and on Sundays from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM. During weekends, reservations are recommended, as the café can get busier. On weekdays, the café operates on a first-come, first-served basis, though reservations can be made via WhatsApp for larger groups or special events. A simple 15-minute grace period is allowed for late arrivals.
El Café de Porfirio Opening Hours
Monday: 8 AM to 8 PM
Tuesday: 8 AM to 8 PM
Wednesday: 8 AM to 8 PM
Thursday: 8 AM to 8 PM
Friday: 8 AM to 8 PM
Saturday: 8 AM to 8 PM
Sunday: 3 PM to 8 PM
For updates or changes to their schedule, follow El Café de Porfirio on Instagram.
