Cafe Relax

Located at 27 Rue de Strasbourg, a stone’s throw from Luxembourg Station, Cafe Relax is a must-visit for anyone looking for a warm, welcoming, and authentically Portuguese café. This small neighborhood establishment attracts a diverse clientele every day, including busy commuters, loyal regulars, and those simply curious to enjoy a delicious break near the central station.

A Portuguese café in the heart of the Gare district

The Portuguese identity of the place is evident from the moment you arrive. Many visitors highlight the friendly atmosphere typical of Lusophone cafes , where the service is warm and welcoming. The waitresses, often described as friendly and attentive, contribute greatly to the relaxed ambiance. Whether it’s a simple morning black coffee, a cold beer at the end of the day, or tea with a pastry, Cafe Relax prioritizes simplicity and personal connection over ostentation.

A sunny terrace with an unobstructed view

One of the establishment’s major assets is its outdoor terrace, ideally situated in the sun and offering an unobstructed view of the area around the train station. Many customers particularly appreciate the opportunity to sit there and enjoy a drink while watching the city go by. This open-air space is a real pleasure, especially on sunny days, and completely transforms the experience of a simple breakfast or coffee on a terrace.

An early morning opening designed for early risers

With doors opening as early as 6:00 a.m. Monday through Thursday (and even on Fridays and Saturdays), Cafe Relax is a prime choice for those looking to grab breakfast before a day at work or before catching a train. On Sundays, the opening time is slightly delayed to 8:00 a.m., but still early enough to accommodate weekend brunchers. This extended opening time, combined with late closing (until 1:00 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays), makes it a place suitable for any time of day.

A simple but effective map

Although Cafe Relax doesn’t offer dinner service or home delivery, its food offerings focus on the essentials: breakfast , quick snacks, coffee, beer, and wine. This streamlined approach appeals to customers looking for an unpretentious restaurant serving quality coffee at reasonable prices and affordable beer. The flat-screen TV inside also allows patrons to watch football matches, making it a popular gathering place for sports fans.

A multicultural meeting point

Many agree on one point: Cafe Relax functions as a true social hub. A diverse range of people are found there, from local workers to travelers passing through, including the local Portuguese community who meet there regularly. This mix gives it a lively and authentic atmosphere, far removed from the standardized cafes found elsewhere in the city.

Weaknesses to consider

However, the place is not universally loved. Several customers complain about the high noise level, especially during peak hours. The phrase “very noisy” comes up repeatedly in customer reviews, and some visitors strongly advise against going there, calling it “problematic.” Others mention a somewhat shabby, even neglected, atmosphere that might deter customers looking for a more refined setting. It’s not a high-end café , but rather a popular establishment where people come primarily for the relaxed atmosphere and affordable prices.

A strategic location near the train station

The location is an undeniable advantage for Cafe Relax. Just a few meters from Luxembourg train station, the establishment naturally attracts travelers looking for a quick coffee before catching their train, or a place to relax upon arrival in the city. For those familiar with the station area, it’s also a convenient option for a lunch break or an impromptu coffee during the day.

An option to consider for fast food

Even though Cafe Relax doesn’t offer formal takeaway or delivery services, it perfectly fits the category of neighborhood cafes where you can eat in quickly and affordably. Its predominantly Portuguese clientele demonstrates a certain loyalty and attachment to this type of friendly place, where people come as much for the welcoming service as for the quality of the drinks served.

A place with character that is worth a visit

Ultimately, Cafe Relax isn’t trying to compete with the gourmet restaurants or trendy cafes of the city center. Its charm lies in its authenticity, its unfiltered atmosphere, and its social role within the neighborhood. For those who accept a certain level of noise in exchange for a human experience and a traditional Portuguese coffee just steps from the train station, this establishment remains a reliable choice. For those seeking absolute tranquility or a sophisticated setting, other options would likely be better. In any case, Cafe Relax remains a place worth knowing for anyone frequenting the Luxembourg train station area.