If it’s one thing that brings us infinite joy during the colder months, it’s visiting Vancouver’s coziest cafes. So if you’re of the same opinion and looking for a new spot to check out, we’ve got you covered. From getting work done to catching up with a friend, to doing a little people-watching with a warm beverage in hand, you can do it all at these cozy coffee shops in Vancouver.
Caffe Cittadella
We’re kicking things off with one of our personal faves from our not-so-hidden cafes list. This multi-level cafe/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.
Where: 2310 Ash Street
The Federal Store
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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
Arbutus Coffee
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
Platform 7
This cozy coffee shop is modelled after a Belle-Epoque French train car. With many espresso beverages, cold brews, specialty teas, and baked goods to choose from, this one’s a great pick for every palate. Plus, the cafe is situated in the ideal Kits neighbourhood for a walk afterwards.
Where: 2300 West Broadway
Milano Coffee Roasters
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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 Strathcona
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The Garden definitely takes the cake for the lushest coffee shop in Vancouver. Not only is the interior design on point, but 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 escaping chilly weather.
Where: 868 East Hastings Street
Nelson the Seagull
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
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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. This is also a great option if you’re still living in patio season!
Where: 55 Powell Street
Cafe Portrait
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
Le Marché St. George
We couldn’t have a list of cozy coffee shops without Le Marché. The popular neighbourhood spot has it all – from traditional French pastries, Croque Monsieur & other comfort eats, to delicious specialty beverages, bouquets of flowers, and even books & board games to keep you occupied all afternoon. Plus, their beloved patio is the perfect spot to watch the leaves change colour.
Where: 4393 St. George Street
Nemesis
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: Multiple locations around Vancouver
49th Parallel Café
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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.
Where: Locations Downtown, in Mount Pleasant, and in Kitsilano
Coco et Olive
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Further up Main Street lies this sleeper hit. Coco et Olive has always managed to fly under the radar, but they’ve got great baking and one of the most authentic “I need to study” vibes in Vancouver. Plus, it’s the kind of hidden gem that impresses your urban exploration friends.
Where: 3707 Main Street
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
So there you have it, Vancouver!
