Masa

Masa is a bakery, pastry shop and brunch restaurant founded by sisters Silvana and Mariana Villegas after years cooking in New York. The Calle 81 branch, at Calle 81 #9-12 in Chapinero near the Zona Rosa in Bogotá, Colombia, is one of the places that turned laminated pastry and all-day brunch into a habit in the capital. An open bakery counter displays croissants, tartines, sandwiches, eggs and cakes, and diners can order at the counter or sit for a fuller meal. The almond croissant is the item most often singled out, alongside shakshuka-style baked eggs, tartines and layered cakes. Baking happens on site, and the pastries are at their best in the morning; they tend to sell out by mid-afternoon, so later visitors may find a reduced selection. The room is bright, casual and busy, with a steady flow of coffee drinkers, laptop workers and brunch groups, and noise is moderate to high at weekends. Dress is casual. Prices are moderate, roughly COP 20,000-55,000 per person (about $6-17), which makes it good value for a full breakfast. Masa is open daily from about 7AM to 8PM, and weekends are busiest from roughly 9AM to 1PM. Reservations are not usually accepted, so queues are normal at weekends and visitors should expect to wait or arrive early. Weekday mornings are much calmer. The location suits a day around the Zona Rosa and Chapinero, close to shops, offices and other cafés, and taxis or ride-hailing are simple. Takeaway pastries and cakes are available for visitors who prefer not to wait for a table, and dietary options can be asked about at the counter.