Our story

A last name, six coffee shops, one island

Where the name comes from

Santos is not a brand invented in a meeting room. It is Milca's last name.

SANTOS started in 2017 with just 16 seats in a tiny space at the front of the Casa del Mar hotel in Aruba. The idea was simple: create a welcoming little coffee spot and introduce people to our restaurant on the beach.

But SANTOS quickly became something of its own. People came for the coffee, but stayed for the feeling — often telling us that stepping into SANTOS made them feel as if they were somewhere else for a moment. That feeling became the heart of SANTOS.

Our name comes from the family name dos Santos, while *Coffee with Soul* was inspired by the Spanish Café con Alma. To us, soul means *passion and dedication* — caring about every detail, from the design and atmosphere to the coffee, food and friendly service.

Table decorated with balloons and cake for a birthday celebration at SANTOS Aruba

From 16 seats to a family of six

As SANTOS grew, the idea behind it never changed.

Our coffee is made with single-origin Arabica beans from Colombia, roasted to our own specifications in Pereira. SANTOS was born in Aruba and has grown a loyal following among both locals and visitors from around the world.

What started with 16 seats has grown into six locations and a family of around 80 team members. Yet, as we’ve grown, the idea behind SANTOS has remained the same.

We want every SANTOS to be a place where you can slow down, enjoy great coffee and food, and forget where you are for a little while. A place to meet, talk, laugh, relax — and perhaps stay a little longer than you planned.

*That’s Coffee with Soul.*

Part of Dushi Hospitality Group

Santos shares a kitchen philosophy, and often a supplier, with the other places the family runs on the island.

Matthew's Beachside

Beachfront restaurant, open since before Santos existed.

M's Crêpe Shack

Sweet and savoury crêpes, made to order.

Santos Coffee with Soul

Six locations across Aruba.

Six locations, one at a time

Every location opened because the previous one filled up.

2022

Casa del Mar, Eagle Beach

The first counter. Hotel guests walked over for breakfast and made it a routine.

2022

Zoutmanstraat, Oranjestad

Downtown, minutes from the cruise port. The one that opens earliest and closes latest.

2022

Tanki Flip, Noord

Drive-thru only, for the 6:30 am crowd on their way to work.

2022

The Cove, Noord

Next to Paseo Herencia, built for long afternoons.

2022

Royal Plaza, Oranjestad

On L.G. Smith Blvd, facing the harbour.

2022

Queen Beatrix Airport

The last cup before the flight home, and the first one back.