Overview

Caffè Contarena, nestled in the heart of Udine on Via Cavour, stands as a timeless beacon of Italian culture and hospitality. This historic café, with origins dating back over nine centuries, offers more than just a meal—it delivers an immersive experience that bridges past and present.

The high ceilings and refined architectural details create a distinctive ambiance that echoes the luxury and charm of bygone eras. Visitors step into a space where history is palpable, yet the atmosphere remains warm and inviting. The interior design serves not only as a feast for the eyes but also as a quiet testament to the city’s rich heritage.

Serving classic Italian dishes, Caffè Contarena shines brightest during daytime hours. The menu features simple yet flavorful cuisine—perfectly complemented by a selection of local wines expertly recommended by attentive staff. Whether enjoying a leisurely three-course lunch or savoring an aperitif, guests relish the thoughtful pairings and the genuine care behind every service.

The café’s location just off the bustling Loggione and Via Mercato Vecchio makes it an ideal spot for locals and travelers seeking an authentic taste of Udine’s social and culinary fabric. The clientele ranges from history enthusiasts and wine lovers to those simply drawn by the café's aura. During the day, it is a haven of elegance and comfort, though its attempts to transform into a nightclub after hours have received mixed reception.

Ultimately, Caffè Contarena is a place where the past and present converge—a venue marked by a refined setting, heartfelt hospitality, and culinary tradition. For anyone visiting Udine, it promises not just a meal but a memorable journey into Italy’s storied café culture.


Amenities & Services

Popular for
Breakfast
Solo dining
Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Coffee
Hard liquor
Quick bite
Small plates
Wine
Atmosphere
Cozy
Historic
Quiet
Romantic
Trendy

What Customers Say

Enrico Buttignoni
Mar 25,2026
5/5
Historic café in the city center, just off the Loggione and via Mercato vecchio. High celings and refined details mark the distinctive architecture of the Contarena.
Harvey “harvey.deluisa” Ramachandran
Mar 25,2026
5/5
This place of wonder and desire. Never have I felt more at home than here. Great personal, beautiful location, and a perfect aura that envelops everyone who enters.
Marta R
Mar 25,2026
5/5
A beautiful ambience and interior, very friendly staff. Food was delicious, I had three course lunch as a part of a party. The food was simple Italian classics but very tasty with a nice bottle of local wine to accompany. Probably one best places in Udine to have a nice lunch. Very central location.
marcus wohlrab (Marcus travels)
Mar 25,2026
4/5
Much better during the day than in the evening when it tries to be a trendy night clubby venue that sadly doesn't work. During the day there isn't a better place to enjoy an aperitif with all the lovely bits they bring you.
Giuseppe Ciracò
Mar 25,2026
5/5
#FullinItaly review it's one of the best, if not the best coffe bar in Udine, the only one in Udine with an 900 years atmosphere, a place where you can enjoy how the people use to live in the luxury and charms years ago. The winery it's very nice, tell to the waiter how do you feel and they will drive you to the right wine.
Jiří Pelikán
Mar 25,2026
5/5
Delicious food, kindly staff, perfect place for a lunch, coffe break or Bday ceremony
Yk
Mar 25,2026
5/5
Very wide. Very kind. I enjoyed my pasta a lot. Highly recommend.
Mr. Jones
Mar 25,2026
5/5
Great location to sit outside and watch the crowd. The interior was beautiful as well with an art-deco feel. Couldn’t be better!

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Location

Opening Hours

Monday 08:00 AM - 12:00 AM
Tuesday 08:00 AM - 12:00 AM
Wednesday 08:00 AM - 12:00 AM
Thursday 08:00 AM - 12:00 AM
Friday 08:00 AM - 12:00 AM
Saturday 08:00 AM - 12:00 AM
Sunday 08:00 AM - 12:00 AM
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