If your regular caffeine fix is getting old, we’ve got great news for you. Tucked away into the neighbourhoods of Mount Pleasant, Kitsilano, Commercial Drive, and West End are some of the best-hidden gems in the city: cute neighbourhood cafes.
Going for a walk or bike ride sometime this spring? Here’s our roundup of the best-hidden bars to check out on your way for a great cuppa joe.
The Mighty Oak
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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 real cute setup!
Patio seating, hanging plants, fresh pastries, and delicious espresso beverages for every palate. Our preference? Go for a cappuccino if you want something caffeinated, or try one of their specialty tea lattes.
Where: 198 West 18th Avenue
Velo Star Cafe
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This pet-friendly cafe actually doubles as a bike shop—perfect if you’re cycling through the area and need a quick pick-me-up!
Whether you need a breakfast sandwich to fuel your day, a bike tune-up–or both, Velo Star has you covered. Hang out inside the bike shop, or sit outdoors in their garden patio area.
Where: 3195 Heather Street
Caffe Cittadella
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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
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
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Arbutus Coffee
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Best known for being “that one cafe by the Greenway,” Arbutus Coffee has become a celebrated spot for fresh bagels, pastries, and even gelato on West 6th and Arbutus. Come rain or shine, or snow—this local favourite is always there when you need it.
Bring a book or take a look at the ones available in the Free Little Library next to the cafe.
Where: 2200 Arbutus Street
Oh Carolina Cafe & Grocery
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It seems like coffee beverages and groceries are a popular combo! Oh Carolina is as comfy and convenient as it gets—not to mention, they have some amazing snack and breakfast options, including savoury pies from @aussiepieguy. You’ll definitely want to check this spot out if you haven’t already!
Where: 580 East 12th avenue
Far Out Coffee Post
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Coffee. Vintage clothing. Arcade games. Three things you probably thought couldn’t exist at the same location, yet here we are. Far Out is a quirky spot where friends & neighbours can get together, enjoy specialty croissants and cinnamon buns, or just hang by the pinball machine.
Where: 2173 Dundas Street
Cafe Portrait
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Cafe Portrait is probably one of the most unique finds you’ll stumble across in Vancouver. The Turkish-owned and operated cafe is located just minutes away from English Bay, but once you head inside, you enter a whole other world. A vibrant art show meets breakfast with a view.
Pro-tip: take your Turkish coffee (brewed over hot sand!) and sit by the window to people watch.
Where: 1120 Denman Street
The Original Beanery Coffee House
If you’re a UBC student, you’ve likely studied at The Beanery while nursing a couple of 20 oz coffees or tried to hammer out the details of a group project over carrot cake.
This spot is the perfect haven away from the masses on Main Mall and the Nest. Come for the chill vibes and window seats, and stay for the fresh-made chocolate whipped cream. Just trust us on this one.
Where: 2706 Fairview Crescent, UBC (located at the back of the residence)
Say Hey Cafe
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While not exactly “hidden,” Say Hey Cafe recently opened its doors after a couple of months of extra preparation, so we think they’ve earned their spot on this list! Come say hey and hang out for a bit over spicy Gabagool sandwiches and apple pie.
Where: 156 East Pender Street
Catch you there, Vancouver!
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