Photo via @nelsontheseagull / Instagram
Did you know? National Coffee Day is coming up on Sunday, September 29th, which is all the more reason to treat yourself to your favourite caffeinated beverage and a little fall treat! So grab your cozy flannels and get ready for the cutest fall walk. Here are 12 of the most quintessential cafes to visit in Vancouver this National Coffee Day and beyond.
We have to start with one of the OGs, Joe’s Cafe, which is sadly set to permanently close on October 26th. Joe’s has been serving up the best cappuccinos in town since 1976, and to say that it has become the cornerstone of Vancouver’s coffee scene is a severe understatement. So if you haven’t yet been to the Commercial Drive staple, now is your time!
Where: 1150 Commercial Drive
A perennial favourite, Nelson the Seagull was one of the first coffee shops we visited when we arrived in Vancouver. Years later, it’s still a must-visit for fresh sourdough, espresso bevies, and tempting pastries.
Where: 315 Carrall Street
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
This pick might just be Vancouver’s only cafe with a rooftop patio! Situated in Hastings-Sunrise, East Cafe is a homey spot for a tasty treat and patio beverage no matter the season. Go for your favourite caffeine fix and one of their Thursday open mic nights!
Where: 2401 East Hastings Street
Now, for a newer spot. This hidden gem is tucked away on East 5th Avenue in Mount Pleasant, and it has great coffee down to a science. Whether it’s a cortado, latte, or a Moka Espresso Martini – you’re sure to enjoy every last drop.
Where: 260 East 5th Avenue
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. What’s more, their Mount Pleasant location has some of the coziest vibes in the city (in our humble opinion), as well as an outdoor balcony to take in the views.
Oh, and live music every Sunday!
Where: 156 West 8th Avenue
Whether it’s a foamy cappuccino or an Iced Pistachio Matcha Latte you’re after, you’re sure to find it at Slo Coffee, AKA ‘Fraserhood’s’ newest coffee shop slash hangout spot.
Where: 4160 Fraser Street
This European-inspired eatery not only has a comfy garden patio on the side, but a bunch of mix-matched vintage furniture indoors to lounge on with your favourite comfort beverage. They also have a full brunch menu to choose from if you’re craving a fuller meal alongside your cuppa joe.
Where: 2610 West 4th Avenue
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
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
Le Marché is a popular destination for traditional French pastries, Croque Monsieur, and other comfort food, but its location definitely screams “hidden gem” nonetheless.
Tucked behind Fraser Street on St. George is the perfect corner coffee shop 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
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 if you want to make an afternoon of it.
Where: 555 Great Northern Way
And that’s a wrap, Vancouver coffee aficionados. Happy National Coffee Day!
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