Por Que No Café, Antigua, Guatemala

In a town with a multitude of dining options, it is the ambience which makes this family-run joint stand out from the crowd.

Away from the main tourist streets in town, in a largely residential area, lies the unassuming entrance to Por Que No. From the door, it is only a short two-meter hop to the bar, with a tiny kitchen nestled behind. Patrons drink beers at the bar stools, or spill out onto the street, and at first glance you might be forgiven for wondering how anyone eats here at all.

That may be because the only dedicated tables in the building are hidden up a tiny staircase so steep the owners have installed a rope to help you climb, disguised by empty wine bottles and other antique bric-a-brac which seems to spill from every available surface.

If you manage to get one of the 16 seats available, climb the staircase and enter a space reminiscent of a poet’s Parisian garret. Low beams, graffiti-ed walls and tiny tables make for an intimate, bohemian atmosphere which keeps people coming back for more.

The shrimp in curry is great, and you can get a tasty steak and a glass of decent wine for $13. Quesadillas, pizza and burritos round out an unadventurous but tasty menu, although it must be said it’s the atmosphere that draws you in.

Por Que No Café

2a Avenida Sur

Antigua, Guatemala

502 4324 5407