Cafes are the first place I head to when needing a dose of creativity and inspiration. As a home and design writer, I appreciate the productivity and seductiveness of aesthetics, and these ultra-curated spaces—from the kitchen down to its recipes—are perfect for romanticizing the taste of life. Sipping my brown sugar oat milk latte as the myriad of customers dance in and out creates a sense of community and relaxation that activates my brain again. These social spaces, full of activity and great eats, evoke various feelings that keep people returning for the experience.

What if you could capture the same energy in your home? Designing your kitchen like a dreamy cafe means building a space that fuels culinary brilliance and stimulates your mind. Here’s how to create the cafe vibe in your kitchen—your everyday source of warmth and imagination.

Lean on Flair

Exquisite plates don’t merely draw in those who love dining out; the ambiance is an essential aspect that takes a restaurant from delicious to impressive. Before noticing the music and art, which we’ll get to later, the furniture and colors catch our attention. A soft, neutral palette works well in the kitchen. When replicating a modern cafe, you want to create an atmosphere of freshness, so opt for wood accents and pops of greenery. Stainless steel appliances are the way to go for that crisp and luxurious aura that makes you feel like you’re in an episode of “The Bear.”

Interior design tells a story, and the one in this kitchen should be about coziness and comfort. You want people to settle and stay, indulging in the space like an irresistible dessert they’re begging their stomach to make room for. Lead with seating by arranging it to enhance the narrative—think vintage bar stools, an armless bench in a corner, or a small bistro table with eccentric chairs.

In such a traveled space, accessibility and functionality are equally important. Cafes prioritize charming displays instead of hiding everything in cabinets using hanging racks and open shelving. Follow-suit, showing off personality mugs, specialty dishes (hey, Le Creuset), and the spices you transferred from generic containers to glass ones. You can also use these areas to incorporate decor, like chunky fruit in a marbled ceramic bowl.

Craft the Experience

Lighting sets the scene, so choose it wisely. The low-exposure vibe is having a moment right now, and everyone’s showing up for it. Warm lighting is the best for the cafe-inspired kitchen, but consider how the fixtures will speak in the space. You won’t enter a restaurant these days that isn’t making a statement with pendant lighting, and we’re so into it. Sconces and under-cabinet lighting are a second favorite, especially for nights spent sautéing and stirring with a glass of wine. When coordinating with the stainless steel looks, industrial fixtures rule.

Artwork gives the kitchen authenticity, charisma, and playfulness. The nail that hammers in the creativity—art states the direction of the design rather than offering an impression. Some cafes stick with vintage paintings, while others emphasize modernity with sculptural accents, glass fixtures, and seas of plants. The style is a matter of personal choice. Nonetheless, the walls should grab eyes. The counters need action, too; a butcher block or cutting board on the tabletop can add another layer to the decor.

So, now you’ve got elegant seating, gorgeous fixtures, storage to die for, and art that will make you double-take, but the bones of your cafe still don’t feel like the real thing. That’s because you’re missing the hallmark that ties restaurants together: noise. Well, not just any noise, specifically chatter, a little above a whisper, rounded out by upbeat or jazzy melodies. We can assume chatter isn’t your thing unless you’re a podcast lover. However, welcome the distraction of background music, whether a few speakers, a record player, or a home audio system.

Build Your Coffee Bar

If you know what you like, this is the easiest part. Cafes are, first and foremost, the home of the barista. Now’s the time to let that espresso machine, coffee grinder, French press, or pour-over kit shine. You may be low on counter space with every piece that goes into designing a stocked kitchen. Yet, a simple coffee cart can have a transformative impact. No room for that, either? Don’t worry; use shelves to hold coffee beans, syrups, extra glasses, and anything else. Your beverage nook can also serve as a wine bar if that’s more your palate.

With just a few thoughtful touches, you can transform your kitchen into the dreamiest cafe you’ve ever visited, like a scene from your favorite romantic movie. Each element creates an intimate and inspiring atmosphere, turning your chef’s corner into more than a place to cook. It’s where life slows, conversations deepen, and every moment feels a little more sublime.