Czech coffee brand Jihlavanka launches debut café in Prague

Czech coffee brand Jihlavanka, which has been roasting in Jihlava since 1958, has entered the café market with the opening of its first location in Prague. The launch marks a significant move for the brand, which aims to compete with established coffee chains by offering quality locally-brewed coffee at affordable prices.

The new Jihlavanka Café, located at the Palmovka transport hub in the Czech capital, caters to the growing trend of coffee-to-go, providing both coffee and snacks in a compact setting.

The introduction of this coffee shop concept is not just about serving coffee but also expanding Jihlavanka’s identity as a go-to brand for Czech consumers. With plans to open additional locations in Prague and other major cities, the brand is positioning itself as an alternative to more expensive coffee chains.

Jihlavanka’s new café concept is designed to attract both existing customers and new ones. At a time when coffee costs are surging across Czechia, the café's menu includes espresso for CZK 29 and cappuccino for CZK 54, prices that aim to make quality coffee more accessible.

Alongside the java, customers can enjoy pastries including donuts (CZK 19) and unique Czech treats such as koblížky (filled mini-donuts, CZK 14), and dukátky (traditional pastries served with custard, CZK 59).

While espresso drinks are the core offering, the café also serves a variety of coffee options, including the beloved Czech-style Turkish coffee (turecká káva). The compact space, just 18 square meters, is brightly designed with large windows, making it a recognizable stop for commuters and passersby.

“Our goal was to create a place where people can enjoy quality coffee on the go at an affordable price,” Jan Suchánek, the CEO of Tchibo for Czechia and Slovakia (the parent company of Jihlavanka), says through a press release.

The strategic location of the Palmovka café, situated near major public transport hubs, reflects Jihlavanka’s goal of placing cafés in areas with high foot traffic. Suchánek noted that the company is keen to expand the concept. If the pilot café proves successful, the company plans to expand across the country.

Flexibility in the café design, from small storefronts to mobile kiosks, will allow Jihlavanka to adapt to various spaces while maintaining its focus on accessibility for coffee lovers on the move.

"We want to be flexible and adapt to different types of spaces, whether brick-and-mortar stores, sales windows or stalls." adds Suchánek. "The key factor for expansion will always be places with a high frequency of customers, such as busy streets, public transport stops, hospitals, and train stations."

"If [the concept] proves successful, we plan to open several Jihlavanka cafés in Prague and other larger cities this year."