If you enjoy scouting out your next cuppa joe, this list is for you. Vancouver is known for its amazing coffee scene, and we’re here to shine a light on some local spots that you may or may not have discovered tucked away into the neighbourhood streets of Mount Pleasant, Kitsilano, Commercial Drive, and Strathcona. So if you’re up for a journey, why not discover a couple of new coffee shops on your next neighbourhood walk?
Here are 11 ‘hidden’ coffee shops to check out in Vancouver.
Velo Star Cafe
View this post on Instagram
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
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
Cardero Cafe
This West End spot doubles as a ‘Latin snackery,’ serving up a slew of delicious soups, sandwiches, and specialty drinks, including the Dulce de Leche Macchiato and the Fruta de la Pasión from Brazil. Come to try the Latin-inspired fare and stay for the ‘homey’ vibes. Plus, they have tons of traditional snacks from a variety of Latin American countries that are likely tough to track down anywhere else in Vancouver!
Where: 1016 Cardero Street
Wilder Snail Neighbourhood Grocery & Cafe
Organic coffees, sandwiches, snacks, and groceries. What more could you need from your local neighbourhood cafe?? Wilder Snail is open from 8 am to 6 pm on weekdays, and from 9 am on weekends, and has all the cozy vibes you need this season.
Where: 799 Keefer Street
Recent Posts:
This route in BC takes you to five natural hot springs surrounded by mountain scenery
7 scenic winter drives you can take from Vancouver this winter
Arbutus Coffee
View this post on Instagram
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
The Mighty Oak
Chances are if you live between South Cambie and Main, you’ve already passed by this neighbourhood cafe and grocer 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 grab a pesto turkey sandwich if you’ve got an appetite.
Where: 198 West 18th Avenue
The Federal Store
View this post on Instagram
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
Far Out Coffee Post
Now open seven days a week, Far Out Coffee Post serves up Origins Organic Coffee and tasty snacks in Hastings-Sunrise, offering visitors a quiet place to pop into for a spell. In years past, they’ve even been known to sell a handful of thrifted and vintage clothes!
Where: 2173 Dundas Street
Le Marché St. George
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
Marche Mon Pitou
Speaking of French-inspired fare, March Mon Pitou is the quintessential Parisian cafe experience in Vancouver. The South Granville location has several cute outdoor tables with heaters overhead and offers the perfect location to enjoy a croissant or Croque Madame and people-watch.
Where: 1387 West 7th Avenue
Kranky Cafe
Located just off Main Street, this independent coffee shop is a must-visit if you’re in the area and want to enjoy locally roasted coffee and baked goods away from the hustle and bustle. Everything is made in-house from scratch, and they’ve got plenty of gluten-free and vegan options as well.
And now, the cafe doubles as a corner grocer, perfect for all your spontaneous and last-minute needs at home.
Where: 228 East 4th Avenue
So there you have it, coffee fiends! Enjoy your exploration.
