The Best Coffee in Tobago: One Cup on Shirvan Road
If you’re looking for a clean, cheerful café in Tobago with consistently great coffee and a surprisingly deep drink menu, One Cup at the Buccoo Food Court (off Shirvan Road) is an easy go-to. With clearly marked parking right out front, plenty of shaded seating in the food court, and friendly service, it’s the kind of spot you’ll return to again and again—whether you dine in or grab your order to go.
A Brief History of Coffee in Trinidad & Tobago
Coffee was introduced to Trinidad during Spanish rule and expanded under British colonization in the 18th and 19th centuries. It thrived in the Northern Range, where the climate was perfect for cultivation. Tobago also saw some coffee production, though it never rivaled the prominence of sugar and cocoa.
By the 19th century, however, coffee lost its dominance to Trinitario cocoa, one of the finest cocoa varieties in the world. Cocoa farming proved more lucrative, and many plantations shifted their focus, leaving coffee production in the background. By the mid-20th century, the country had largely moved away from coffee farming, focusing instead on its booming oil and gas industries.
Today, most of the coffee consumed in Trinidad and Tobago is imported instant coffee, and coffee culture is not as deeply ingrained as it is in places like Canada, where grabbing a fresh-brewed cup is part of the daily routine. However, there are still excellent coffee shops serving high-quality, freshly brewed coffee.
Discovering Great Coffee in Tobago: One Cup
While specialty coffee culture is still developing in T&T, there are places where you can enjoy expertly crafted coffee. One such place is One Cup in Tobago—a must-visit spot for coffee lovers.
Location: Buccoo Food Court
Set inside the Buccoo Food Court just off Shirvan Road, One Cup is simple to find and super convenient to swing by before work, between errands, or on your way to the beach. You’ll find clearly marked parking along the front of the building.
Prefer to sit? The food court offers lots of seating, plenty of shade, and a relaxed vibe—usually there’s good music drifting through, or you’ll catch the news on. The café itself is very clean, bright, and inviting.
Hours
Tuesday–Sunday, 7:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
(Closed on Mondays)
What to Drink
Coffee
You can choose from a variety of hot and cold coffee drinks such as espresso, latte, flat white, cappuccino and much more. If you aren’t sure what to order, the baristas can help guide you. My go to order is a hot cappuccino or an iced latte. The expert baristas are sure to serve up instagram-able latte art every time.
If you become as obsessed with the quality of coffee as we are – you can purchase whole or ground coffee beans so that you can brew at home.
Tea
One Cup doesn’t just stop at great coffee — they also serve a selection of Teabago teas, a proudly local brand grown and blended right here in Tobago. Teabago was created with the vision of celebrating the island’s natural bounty and traditions, using herbs and plants that thrive in Tobago’s fertile soil.
From soothing lemongrass to fragrant hibiscus and other tropical herbal blends, these teas offer a taste of Tobago in every cup. They’re naturally caffeine-free, light, and refreshing, making them the perfect choice if you’re looking for something calming and restorative.
fresh juice and smoothies
If you aren’t a coffee or tea drinker, that’s okay – One Cup still has something for you. A standout at One Cup: fresh, no-sugar-added juices. Highly recommended. Look for flavours like lime, beetroot, pineapple, and seasonal options depending on what’s fresh.
A fresh juice or cold smoothie is the perfect drink to grab on your way to the beach. If you are feeling spicy consider adding a shot of rum to your juice!
Don’t forget to grab some complimentary flavoured water while you wait for your brew!
What to Eat
Local breakfast pies
A beloved local breakfast option: flaky pastries stuffed with savoury fillings. Try: cheese, chicken, beef and more.
Sweet Breakfasts & Light Bites
- Fresh Belgian waffles topped with fruit, whipped cream, and maple syrup.
- Fruit & yogurt bowl if you’d like something on the healthier side.
dessert (treat yourself!)
There’s usually a tempting spread: brownies (so good!), banana bread, cakes, cheesecake, and more—perfect with a latte or tea. For a sweet-meets-bold treat, try the affogato — a scoop of ice cream drenched in a shot of hot espresso that melts into the perfect balance of creamy and strong.
Service, Vibe & What to Expect
The staff treat everyone with love—and you can taste it in the coffee. Become a regular and you’ll quickly build a relationship with the baristas (don’t be surprised when they remember your order).
Why You Should Try One Cup’s Coffee
- Rich, Smooth Espresso – If you’re a coffee lover, you’ll appreciate the perfectly balanced flavors and velvety texture.
- High-Quality Colombian Coffee – One Cup sources premium beans from Colombia, ensuring a rich and satisfying cup every time.
- Perfect for Home Brewing – Whether you prefer a French press, espresso machine, or pour-over, their beans are a great way to enjoy quality coffee at home.
- Welcoming Atmosphere – You can expect to receive great service and a warm smile when ordering at One Cup.
A Growing Coffee Culture in Trinidad & Tobago
If you enjoy coffee at all, One Cup is a must-visit in Tobago. From well-made espresso drinks to fresh juices, local breakfast pies, waffles, and sweets—all in a bright, spotless setting with genuinely warm service—it’s the kind of café that turns a quick stop into a happy ritual.
