On June 25, the gala for “Europe’s 100 Best Coffee Shops” was held in Brussels during World of Coffee.
Out of more than 5,300 cafes evaluated, Frutas Selectas ranked third in Europe, according to a ranking compiled by a jury of more than 250 international professionals and supplemented by more than 240,000 votes from the public.
Much more than just a cup of coffee
Being among the top three in Europe means meeting a set of criteria that go far beyond the drink itself. The origin and selection of the coffee, the roasting process, the preparation at the bar, the service, the hospitality, and the customer experience are all part of an evaluation that seeks to recognize well-rounded establishments, not just good coffee.
For Emanuele, manager of Frutas Selectas, this recognition encapsulates a way of working that the team has been developing for years.
"Perseverance. For a long time now, that has been the word that defines Frutas Selectas. We have grown together, learned new techniques, and focused on service and customer care. It hasn't been a quick or easy journey, but we remain convinced that we can always improve and offer an even better experience."
Brussels, a hub for specialty coffee
The gala took place as part of World of Coffee Brussels, one of the industry's most important international events.
For several days, coffee shops, roasters, producers, baristas, and industry professionals from all over Europe gathered to discuss the present and future of specialty coffee.
David, NOMAD venue supervisor, particularly highlights the high quality of the projects in Brussels.
"We encountered an exceptionally high caliber of coffee shops and professionals from all over Europe. It was very inspiring to share the space with such diverse projects, each with its own identity and approach to coffee. These kinds of gatherings force you to step outside your comfort zone, question what you do, and keep learning from others."
Another step forward on Frutas Selectas' journey
This recognition comes just a few months after Frutas Selectas named the highest-ranked coffee shop in Spain and No. 16 in the world on The World's 100 Best Coffee Shops list.
Now, with this third-place finish in Europe, the project continues to solidify its presence in an increasingly demanding and international scene.
European coffee is experiencing one of its best periods
The first edition of *The Europe's 100 Best Coffee Shops* highlights the maturity that specialty coffee is achieving in Europe. Countries such as the United Kingdom, Ireland, Spain, and Portugal lead a selection that reflects an increasingly diverse, connected, and influential scene on the international stage.
Being part of this moment—and doing so from third place—is an honor we accept with great enthusiasm, but also with the responsibility to continue improving.
Emanuele especially remembers one moment from the gala that perfectly captures what this award means.
"Just before they announced our name, someone I admire turned around, smiled, and said to me, 'Now it's time to keep it up. Excellence is consistency.' A few seconds later, they called out Frutas Selectas.' It was a moment I'll never forget."
David also emphasizes the significance of this recognition for the entire project.
"We're returning from Brussels with the feeling that we're heading in the right direction. This recognition encourages us to keep improving every day, paying close attention to our products, our service, and every detail of the experience. And above all, I can only thank the Frutas Selectas team Frutas Selectas everyone who trusts us and is part of this journey."
Thank you to everyone who walks through the doors of Frutas Selectas , and to our team in Poblenou, who continue to help this project grow day by day.