Café Coca-Cola

An urban legend that defies time

One of the oldest eateries in town is Café Coca-Cola, which faces Parque Santa Ana, near the terminus of the Avenida Central pedestrian mall.

Very few privately-owned establishments of any kind in town can claim a similar history of uninterrupted service.

Opened in 1883 bearing a name now forgotten, the establishment became known as "Coca-Cola" sometime after the turn of the 20th century, when the famous carbonated beverage gained popularity on the Isthmus.

Café Coca-Cola is an urban icon that defies definition. Frequented by prominent intellectuals, government officials and celebrities, it is said that the main attraction of this quaint colonial-style establishment is its use as an impromptu news-sharing venue.

Some say that many major political events of the 20th century, ranging from military coups to presidential campaign strategies, were planned at its tables where it is still not uncommon to find current cabinet members and legislators chatting with gentlemen of all social classes over a cup of coffee.