Ben Rahim Coffee Company — Restaurant in Tunis

Café Ben Rahim is the first third wave coffee shop in Tunisia, and it is excellent by any standard. The eponymous owner, Ben Rahim, is a Tunisian based in Berlin, where he owns a cafe and roastery and competes in international barista competitions, and he opened this café in Tunisia, in the picturesque artist resort town of Sidi Bou Said, in February 2022.

The focus here is the coffee, prepared exactingly to the highest standards, but it is a welcoming, unpretentious place, and the prices are very competitive for the quality. In addition to coffee, traditional Tunisian pastries are available, as well as bottled water and a few other selections. The decor is tasteful, and while music is occasionally played, it is well-curated and is not so loud as to disturb conversation. Seating is generous, but depending on the time of day and the size of the crowds, it may be difficult to find a place. In addition to a few seats on the ground floor, there is a lovely upstairs area (also where the WCs are located, very tidy) suitable for larger groups, as well as well-lit outdoor seating.

Back to the coffee: in addition to pour over, there is a full menu of classic espresso drinks (including cortado and flat white), with the signature drink being a rose latte, served with candied rose petals. Note that drinks are not served with sugar, so you might want to bring your own, but it is not really needed because it is not over-roasted or over-extracted. This is not snobbery but is an attempt to introduce people to a new way of drinking coffee in a way to appreciate the characteristics of premium beans.

The current espresso blend served consists of Brazilian and Colombian arabica beans (they do not serve robusta), with a medium roast profile and balanced acidity. It is accessible and has most pronounced chocolate and caramel notes.

A highlight is the cezwa, or Turkish coffee. It is in this category that Ben Rahim won second in the world at the International Barista Competition, and here you can drink genuine award-winning Turkish coffee, combining the old tradition with modern insights. All the details are pursued with exacting temperature: the hand-made, silver-lined cezwa, the grind size and ratio, water temperature, heat distribution. And it is served attractively on a wooden platter, accompanied by a Tunisian date.

Coffee beans (blends, single origin, even rare Yemeni beans) and brewing articles are also sold. Tunisia's first third wave café sells everything you need to make your own...

A Hidden Gem in Sidi Bousaid – Perfect Coffee with a View!**

If you're looking for an authentic café experience in the heart of Sidi Bousaid, Ben Rahim is the place to be! This charming spot offers not only delicious, high-quality coffee but also an unbeatable atmosphere. The traditional Tunisian décor, with its blue-and-white arches and cozy seating, makes it the perfect place to relax and soak in the beauty of this iconic neighborhood.

The coffee here is rich, aromatic, and expertly brewed—whether you prefer a strong espresso, a smooth cappuccino, or traditional Tunisian coffee, they serve it just right. Pair it with a sweet treat like their baklava or makroudh, and you’re in for a delightful experience.

What really sets Ben Rahim apart is the stunning view of the Mediterranean and the village’s picturesque streets. Sitting on their terrace feels like stepping into a postcard! The service is warm and welcoming, adding to the overall charm.

If you’re visiting Sidi Bousaid, don’t miss this café—it’s the perfect spot to unwind, enjoy great coffee, and take in the magic of Tunisia’s most beautiful village. Highly...

I’ve been coming to this coffee shop almost every day for the past 2–3 months. I’ve always liked their coffee, even though I never really understood their “no sugar” policy — when they tell customers “we don’t have sugar” as if it’s part of their concept. Still, I gave them the benefit of the doubt because I appreciated the quality and I also personally don't take sugar in my coffee

But today was honestly disappointing. We ordered two coffees — a cappuccino and a regular one. The cappuccino tasted like warm milk, barely any coffee in it. My partner politely asked if they could add just a bit more coffee to balance it out, and instead of trying to make it right, they asked her to pay extra — almost the same price as a new coffee.

When she said “never mind,” there was zero effort to make up for it — no apology, no smile, no gesture. Just indifference.

It’s sad, because I really had high hopes for this place. It had potential — a bit of a Starbucks vibe — but once again, service in Tunisia proves to be the weak link. No matter how much you pay, customer care always seems to...