[Luang Prabang] Saffron Coffee — Meticulously Crafted Coffee

28/10/2025

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In a city that’s quickly becoming a café paradise, Saffron Coffee may be the most coffee-obsessed spot in Luang Prabang.

Born from the idea of “addressing mountain communities’ poverty through coffee,” Saffron Coffee begins by supporting and training smallholder farmers.

Unsurprisingly, the coffee is excellent—the clean, focused flavors are well worth savoring.

The interior is lovely, and there’s an eat-in space facing the Mekong River, so you can enjoy your coffee from a different vantage point each day.

It’s also a great refuge from Luang Prabang’s daytime heat—keep it on your shortlist.

TOC

Basic information for Saffron Coffee

Address	Khem Khong Road, Luang Prabang 06000, Laos
Hours	Apr–Nov 7:00–16:00 Nov–Mar 7:00–17:00
Official Website	https://saffroncoffee.com/

Saffron Coffee’s Serious Bean Ethos

On the second-floor wall, profiles of people involved in coffee bean production are displayed.

Saffron prioritizes shade-grown cultivation and brews with beans slow-matured under canopy for deeper flavor.

Beyond beans, the philosophy is “take the time to make and use what’s truly good.”

Let’s start there.

Shade-grown beans mature more slowly, developing richer flavor in the seed.
Where natural shade is scarce, Saffron even guides partner farmers to plant shade trees so coffee can be grown under canopy.

From Farm to Roast: A Fully Integrated Path

Saffron uses distinct beans from northern Laos and trades directly with local farmers—while also supporting their livelihoods.

Green beans are hand-sorted and processed by partner farmers, and roasting is done in-house.

In short, Saffron is involved in every step from production to product, so you can drink with confidence.

Historically, some northern highland areas cultivated opium; Saffron has helped introduce coffee as an alternative crop, providing seedlings and training so communities can build sustainable income through coffee.

Washed Processing, by Design

Saffron is particular about processing, using the washed method.

Northern Laos has ample water, but washed processing is still labor-intensive compared with the more common natural method.

Because the mucilage is removed before drying, washed coffees tend to offer clean, clear profiles with refreshing acidity.

Flavor Profile

Saffron’s coffee skews a touch fuller-bodied, with gentle acidity and a slightly firmer bitterness—a distinct, clear taste that pairs beautifully with milk.

If you’re unsure what to order, a latte is a sure bet.

Five Alternative Brew Methods (for purists)

In addition to the espresso machine, Saffron offers five specialty brews:

ALTERNATIVE BREW

Siphon
Hario V60 (pour-over)
AeroPress
French press
Cold drip (slow-drip cold brew)

They cost more than machine brews, but are highly recommended if you want something special.

Three Eat-In Spaces—Pick by Mood

1. Ground-Floor Open Café

Seating is limited, but this is where you’ll feel Saffron’s atmosphere most.

You’ll see the roaster and siphon gear—the café’s “engine room.”

It’s open-air (no A/C) yet surprisingly comfortable.

Order at the counter by the entrance; staff will bring drinks to your table.

There’s also a souvenir shelf: not only high-quality single-origin beans but also coffee jam and coffee soap—easy gifts to take home.

2. Upstairs Colonial Room (Recommended)

The second floor is on another level—dark-wood tones set against lush tropical greens outside the windows.

Walls feature profiles of farmers and team members, a quiet tribute to everyone who shapes Saffron Coffee.

It’s the only air-conditioned floor, and together with the ambiance it’s perfect for lingering.

Free Wi-Fi and plentiful outlets make it popular for laptop work.

3. Mekong-Front Terrace

Cross the road and the Mekong River is right there—Saffron’s riverside seating sits in the shade, so it stays pleasantly cool.

An elegant coffee break with the Mekong before you is hard to beat.

Enjoy Top-Tier Coffee in a Top-Tier Setting

From cultivation to processing, roasting, brewing, and even the store concept, Saffron Coffee pursues quality without compromise.

With three distinct seating areas, you’ll always find a spot that suits the weather and your mood.

Savor Luang Prabang’s laid-back rhythm at Saffron Coffee—stellar coffee, stellar setting.