With cozier fall weather just around the corner, it’s a great time to check out some new cafes that have been on your radar or revisit old favourites. And while nothing can beat a cafe hangout with friends, we think it’s just as important to treat yourself to your own afternoon of sipping and people-watching from time to time. So with that in mind, here are 11 cafes in Vancouver to check out on your next solo date.
Revolver
Situated right across from Purebread in Gastown is a quintessential spot for espresso drinks and minimalist decor. Whether you’re bringing laptop work with you or a good book, there are plenty of cozy seats to choose from. And if you’re looking to do some quality people-watching, you can’t do much better than a window seat.
Where: 325 Cambie Street
Their There
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Located in the heart of Kits, Their There is the perfect spot to indulge in a breakfast sandwich or specialty donut or enjoy some solo brunch on the patio. And if you end up staying for happy hour, a transition to a Negroni or Bloody Mary is certainly warranted.
Where: 2042 West 4th Avenue
The Federal Store
A quaint luncheonette and grocer slash cafe, The Federal Store really does it all. The plant-adorned spot nestled between Quebec and Main is known for its amazing selection of house-baked cakes. Honey Cardamom Buttercream, Rose Milk Chocolate, and Roasted Strawberry Cake are just the tip of the delicious iceberg!
Grab a spot at the window or on their outdoor patio and enjoy a bevy and a slice.
Where: 2601 Quebec Street
Le Marché St. George
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Le Marché is a popular destination for traditional French pastries, Croque Monsieur, and other comfort food, but its location definitely lends itself to the “hidden” part of this list.
Tucked behind Fraser Street on St. George is the perfect cherry blossom-clad corner to meet up with friends and have a chat over coffee or tea. They even have books and board games to keep you occupied all afternoon!
Where: 4393 St. George Street
Milano Coffee Roasters
With 13 different-origin coffees to choose from (and home to Vancouver’s only espresso-tasting bar), you can truly taste the “Italian soul” in each blend created by Milano Coffee Roasters. And their location on West 8th is perfectly situated near False Creek, and across from a dog park.
Where: 156 West 8th Avenue
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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Foglifter Coffee Roasters
After over 20 years in the retail coffee space at Bean Around the World, these coffee roasters decided to branch out into their own family-run business, offering weekly, bi-weekly, and monthly coffee delivery, and a mix of locally sourced beans from metro Vancouver, Calgary, Seattle, and Edmonton. In terms of up-and-coming roasters, this is definitely one to keep an eye on!
Locations: 3590 Main Street (flagship cafe)
Liberty Bakery
Sitting kiddy corner from Coco is Liberty. This Nordic bakery is as much a masterclass in interior design as it is a great coffee shop, but we guess that’s what happens when three artists decide to save their neighbourhood hangout.
Where: 3699 Main Street
The Birds and the Beets
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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
The Mighty Oak
Chances are if you live between South Cambie and Main, you’ve already passed by this neighbourhood cafe and grocery store hundreds of times. For those who have not yet been inside, take it from us—it’s a really cute setup!
Patio seating, hanging plants, fresh pastries, and delicious espresso beverages for every palate. Our preference? Go for a cappuccino or one of their housemade PSLs if that’s your thing, or grab a pesto turkey sandwich if you’ve got an appetite.
Where: 198 West 18th Avenue
Caffe Cittadella
This multi-level cafe and bistro is situated in a late 19th-century heritage house, complete with character archways, large windows, and an outdoor patio with gorgeous views of False Creek. Perfect for a quiet afternoon of laptop work and coffee, or catching up with friends over their daily happy hour menu.
If you feel like being on the move, you can take a ‘treat bag’ to go for a stroll through Charleson Park (the off-leash dog park by False Creek).
Where: 2310 Ash Street
