Top 5 Things to Know about Casa Bou: Starbucks Flagship Coffeehouse in El Salvador
In the heart of San Salvador’s historic center, an architectural gem regains its urban prominence, becoming a symbol of identity and memory in the market. Starbucks, operated in El Salvador by its trusted licensee Premium Restaurants of America (PRA), opens the doors of Casa Bou, a first-of-its-kind flagship coffeehouse in Latin America and The Caribbean (LAC) that blends art, heritage and innovation.
Housed in the iconic Antonio Bou Building, a landmark of the city that, for nearly a century, has witnessed its cultural and economic evolution, this historic space is reborn as a Third Place where the community can reconnect with its roots, share their passion for coffee, and take part in activities that celebrate local art.
Discover five things that make this store unique, a place where history, art, and community come together:
- A building reborn
Built between 1923 and 1927, the Antonio Bou Building marked a turning point in San Salvador’s commercial architecture. Its Art Nouveau façade, adorned with floral and natural motifs, reflected the visionary spirit of its founder, Antonio Bou Esbert, and mirrored the city’s economic boom in the 20th century.
To honor the building’s legacy, Starbucks preserved every original detail—from its metal skylight to its ornamental moldings—during the restoration process, integrating new design layers that engage in dialogue with the past. The result is a tribute to Salvadoran heritage and the beauty of adaptive reuse.
“Casa Bou is not only a store — it’s a bridge between history and modernity,” said Jeremiah Bailey, director of Starbucks Store Design in LAC. “Every architectural decision was made to honor the original structure while creating a space that feels open, inspiring, and authentically local.”
2. A Third Place designed for everyone
Casa Bou is envisioned as a gathering place for the entire community. From the moment visitors walk through its doors, they are welcomed into a warm and inviting environment that encourages them to stay, explore, and connect.
On the ground floor, guests will find an open coffee bar connected to communal tables and cozy lounge areas, while a grand staircase doubles as informal seating, perfect for enjoying a cup of coffee while soaking in the energy of the space.
The mezzanine and second floor offer quiet work areas and a gallery featuring Salvadoran art, allowing visitors to connect with local talent in an intimate and welcoming setting.
3. The Story of Coffee Told Through Light and Color
Since its inception, the building has been known for its double height-stained-glass windows that fill the interior with color and life. Reimagined by the Salvadoran art studio Vitrales by Margarita Llort, the seven panels now combine traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design to honor Salvadoran coffee culture and narrate the journey of coffee from seed to cup.
Each panel depicts a chapter in that story, from the birth of the coffee plant and its harvest to the roasting process and the shared moment of enjoying a cup together — using light as a storytelling medium that connects craft and community.
4. Murals that celebrate Salvadoran identity
Local artists Darwin Flores and Madjer Linares joined forces to create the murals that bring Starbucks Casa Bou to life. The first piece, located on the main floor, portrays a vibrant coffee farm scene in harmony with nature. If you look closely, you’ll spot the silhouette of El Salvador’s map.
The second mural, located on the upper level, pays tribute to the Salvadoran pride, spirit, and deep connection to coffee throughout history.
Both works engage in a visual dialogue: one represents nature, the other humanity. Together, they transform the space into a living gallery that celebrates the full Starbucks Coffeehouse Experience.
5. Local Craftsmanship in Every Detail
At Casa Bou, every element tells a story. From the materials used in the restoration to the objects that decorate each space, the building incorporates the work of local artisans who keep the market’s traditions alive.
With the goal of creating a warm and authentic atmosphere, Starbucks restored the historic property using hand-crafted wood, natural fibers, and details inspired by local flora—reinforcing the company’s commitment to cultural heritage and supporting the artisans whose craft turns local materials into art.
With a design that blends tradition and respect for the environment, the building incorporates a green wall designed by Carol Cruz Studio Design. The six-metre-high vertical garden rises strikingly to bring freshness and dynamism to the architectural ensemble, integrating the structure beautifully into the urban landscape. The vegetation, carefully selected to suit the local climate, symbolizes the brand’s commitment to sustainability. Thus, the green wall offers visitors an experience that celebrates life and connection with nature in the heart of the city.
Beyond design, Casa Bou also reaffirms Starbucks purpose of strengthening communities in every market where it operates. Through a Global Community Impact Grant from The Starbucks Foundation, the store will support an initiative that will benefit the Salvadoran youth through art and education programs developed in partnership with Glasswing International.
Casa Bou represents the convergence of architecture, culture, and community impact — a space that celebrates Salvadoran creativity and embodies Starbucks vision of design with purpose.
