The best breakfasts in Cologne

Travel blogger Angelika spent three days chomping her way across Cologne and reveals her favourite breakfast eateries in the city.

My spontaneous thought as I enter this small but vibrant café: cuteness overload! The first thing you see is the display of exquisite, extravagant cakes and gateaux on the left, while the benches and tables by the window offer an excellent view of the bustling Venloer Straße shopping mile. My breakfast – available all day round – arrives quickly. I admit it was difficult to choose from all the delicious options on the menu. In the end, I went for the New York Bagel breakfast with a delicious, creamy cappuccino and a freshly made smoothie, and they did not disappoint. The portions are generous and lovingly arranged, and the service is fast and incredibly friendly. They also have a specials menu, which is posted on Facebook. I’ll be back to try their lunches soon!

Where: Venloer Straße 206, 50823 Cologne (they also have a sister café in Aachener Straße 45)
Web: www.cafecafe.de

I’m the first customer of the day, but not for long. Called ‘sliced bread’ in German, this cute café is incredibly popular for its tasty selection of mini German-style sandwiches, piled high with delicious and creative toppings. There really is something for everyone on the menu. The bread is sourced from a local baker, the cold cuts are produced locally, and some of the vegetables even come straight from the owner’s garden. Home-made salads, soups and other delectable delights are also available. An odd feature is the lottery counter at the back, but it doesn’t detract from the pretty interior. It was actually left there by the previous tenant and is a typical example of what makes my former stomping ground in Cologne a bit quirky and headstrong, but totally endearing. Just like the two variations on cellar cake that sit so invitingly on display, made with milk or white chocolate. It’s like a home from home, and I love it.

Where: Alteburger Strasse 28, 50678 Cologne
Web: www.geschnitten-brot.de

If the whole world gave out big, friendly smiles like they do here, it would make life a lot easier. Walking into this muesli bar is like stepping into a sunbeam. The centrepiece is the wonderful counter with its delectable display of food, behind which stand the owner and her employees. Knick-knacks, colourful coffee mugs and little cabinets decorate every surface and create a cosy atmosphere. It’s simply gorgeous in here. And then there’s the yummy muesli itself. Guests can create their own from endless combinations of their favourite ingredients. A popular choice is the traditional Bircher muesli, which is wonderfully creamy and not too sweet. The Yummy Müslibar team also have a range of options such as raw cakes or special types of milk to cater for people with allergies and the nutrition-conscious.

+++ Unfortunately, Yummy Müsli Bar is closed +++

Wo: Brüsseler Str. 29, 50674 Cologne