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.
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.