If you’re studying for finals or just need a quiet space to work that isn’t the library or your kitchen table, we feel you. And we’ve got some great cafe options to share. Whether you’re studying for a big test, sending emails, or working on your latest project, here are 12 work-friendly cafes to check out around Vancouver.
Finch’s
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Known for its incredible baguette sandwiches, Finch’s is a prime study/work spot with a ton of charm. Whether you’re grabbing a classic egg salad or their famous prosciutto and pear sandwich, you’ll always leave Finch’s satisfied, and their cozy tables are perfect for settling in and getting work done.
Where: 353 West Pender Street
Small Victory
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It might be called Small Victory, but this bright and airy brand is a big win for our coffee scene. It’s a great spot if you want to overhear some fun business meetings or something in between your working stints.
Where: 1088 Homer Street and 3070 Granville Street
Revolver
Maybe the original ‘hipster’ coffee bar in the city, Revolver has evolved into an absolutely classic Gastown option. If you’re fan of hustle and bustle while you work away, then you’ll have ample opportunity to people watch either in the main room or the adjacent space.
Where: 325 Cambie Street
Breka Bakery and Cafe
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Every student and night owl’s dream. Breka has locations all around the city, but we’re partial to the ones on West 4th and downtown. If you need to cram for a big test, or just feel most productive at 2 AM, then this 24 hour spot is the place to be.
Where: 855 Davie Street and 3750 West 4th Avenue
Milano Coffee Roasters
Not only is Milano one of our fave coffee roasters in the city, but their location on West 8th is the perfect spot to crack open a book or your laptop and get some solid work done. And it doesn’t hurt that the cafe overlooks a dog park one bit. Our advice? Go early and snag a booth seat by the window and pair your coffee with a pastry from To Live For.
Where: 156 West 8th Avenue
Gene Coffee Bar
A Main Street icon, Gene has remained thanks to a few factors. First, it’s certainly one of the more eclectic spaces in the city. Second, there’s ample space (considering where it is) to sit down and get some work done. Third, those massive bay windows are great for people-watching.
Where: 2404 Main Street
The Garden
The Garden definitely takes the cake for the lushest coffee shop in Vancouver. The interior design’s on point, and their ever-growing selection of plants will have you feeling like you’re strolling through VanDusen every time you visit. Pair that with a great coffee menu, and this is a great choice for cafes to do some work in Vancouver.
Where: 868 East Hastings Street
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Nelson the Seagull
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A perennial favourite, Nelson the Seagull was one of the first coffee shops we visited when we arrived in Vancouver. Years later, we still see it as an amazing space with great coffee and food options. Plus, their interior design will have you ready to buckle down and study. Just don’t hog a table if things get too busy!
Where: 315 Carrall Street
The Birds and the Beets
This spot is just as good for a light snack as it is for coffee, and we love the fact that we can buy flowers to brighten our (or a loved one’s) day. The brioche is delicious, and the avocado and poached egg sandwich is one of the best deals in the city.
Where: 55 Powell Street
Nemesis
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Nemesis exploded into the Vancouver scene a few years back and boasts some of the more interesting coffee shops in the city. The original location downtown is great, and their North Van spot is right beside an art gallery (nice). But, our top pick is their latest location, which is easily the most interesting coffee shop in the city.
Where: 555 Great Northern Way
49th Parallel Café
The Kits location is probably the most famous coffee shop in the city, but 49th Parallel has three locations worth checking out. Good colour scheme, great coffee, and delicious donuts. However, this is the spot for yeast instead of cake batter, trust us. Get a filled one for maximum effect. Our second choice? The Main Street location.
Where: 2198 West 4th Avenue and 2902 Main Street
Pallet Coffee Roasters
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Like 49th Parallel, Pallet has got a few locations around the city to check out. And while they’re all nice options, time and time again we find ourselves returning to their HQ and roastery, to enjoy the massive space and ample seating available.
Where: 395 Alexander Street
So there you have it, coffee aficionados. The next time you need to hone in and get some work done, consider checking out one of these cafes.
