A popular 19th century gathering spot

Since it was opened in 1874, the Palainovka Café in the Upper Town has become and remains one of Zagrebers’ favourite spots. This cult gathering place has been refurbished many times throughout its long history, but its purpose has never changed. It was reopened once again in mid-July, and is even more beautiful than ever after yet another total make-over.

Since the 19th century, the Palainovka Café, located in the Upper Town of Zagreb, has always been a favourite gathering spot for the citizens of Zagreb, among whom it enjoys a cult status. Its doors have recently been opened again after a thorough redesign, and tourists in Zagreb now have the opportunity to experience its old world charm. Although its décor looks nothing like the original, the laid-back atmosphere that can be enjoyed over a cup of coffee has remained unchanged. If you are interested in seeing what this cult café looks like today make sure to head to the Upper Town and let your imagination roam freely trying to conjure up how the onetime citizens of Zagreb might have relaxed there.

Palainovka, which owes its name to its first owner, Matija Palain, has always been a gathering spot for the intellectual and social elite of the time. The kind of patrons has changed only slightly over the decades. In the mid 1970s it was a popular watering hole for Zagreb’s students. Nowadays it has the traditional image of a place where the regulars are intellectuals.

Thoroughly refurbished, after works which lasted several months, the Palainovka has opened its doors and is more beautiful than ever. Even the most hardened nostalgic will surely agree that the new decor exudes the spirit of times past, regardless of the modern design solutions such as custom made furniture and fittings.

The basic idea behind the most recent make-over was to make the café a pleasant blend of the present and the past, which is reflected in the simple interior design accentuated with several old-fashioned details. Drawings of old bicycles adorn the walls, and a real bicycle is even suspended on a wall. The clean lines of the simple chairs are enhanced with turquoise cushions to match the colour of the doors and windows.