Kashalata Cafe

Why it matters: founded in 2017 by Aytan Eylanova through the Birge ve Saglam (Together and Healthy) Public Union, Kashalata is Azerbaijan’s first inclusive cafe – of its 20 staff, nine are autistic and one has Down syndrome, all working alongside dedicated job coaches in genuinely supported roles. It’s also just a good neighborhood coffee stop with a warm, unhurried vibe near the city centre. Order a coffee and a pastry, take a seat, and don’t rush – part of the point is the conversation.