Vancouver, a city known for its natural beauty, diverse culture, and thriving culinary scene, has also become a hotspot for coffee lovers. Whether you're looking for a cozy corner to sip your morning brew, a trendy spot with creative coffee drinks, or a quiet place to work or relax, Vancouver has a cafe for you. With an ever-expanding coffee culture, the city's cafes offer everything from artisanal lattes to hand-crafted pastries and friendly service. In this guide, we’ll take you through some of the best cafes in Vancouver — the perfect spots for any coffee enthusiast or casual visitor.
1. Revolver Coffee
Location: 325 Cambie St, Vancouver
Located in the heart of Vancouver’s historic Gastown district, Revolver Coffee has become a beloved destination for coffee connoisseurs. Known for its commitment to high-quality, single-origin beans, Revolver specializes in pour-over coffee, espresso drinks, and cold brews. The intimate atmosphere and minimalist design make it the perfect spot for those who appreciate a well-crafted cup of coffee.
What to Try:
The pour-over coffee is a must-try for those who enjoy a clean, vibrant cup. Revolver’s knowledgeable baristas will guide you through the selection of beans and brewing methods.
If you're a fan of espresso-based drinks, try the classic cortado or the flat white. Both showcase the café’s precision in crafting smooth, rich shots of espresso.
Why Visit: Revolver is more than just a place to grab a quick coffee — it's a coffee experience. With a rotating selection of beans from local and international roasters, every visit offers something new. The café's knowledgeable staff will help you understand the nuances of different beans, brewing techniques, and how each cup is prepared.
2. Timbertrain Coffee Roasters
Location: 311 W Cordova St, Vancouver
Timbertrain Coffee Roasters is a top-tier coffee roastery and café located in the heart of Vancouver. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in the art of roasting and brewing coffee. The team at Timbertrain roasts their own beans, ensuring that every cup they serve is fresh and full of flavor. Their location, right near the Vancouver waterfront, also offers a charming and cozy space to relax.
What to Try:
The signature espresso blend is a standout. If you’re in the mood for something a little different, try the nitro cold brew — a smooth, creamy iced coffee that is sure to impress.
Timbertrain also serves a variety of baked goods, so grab a pastry to pair with your coffee. The almond croissant is a popular choice.
Why Visit: Timbertrain isn’t just about the coffee — it’s about the experience. The staff is extremely knowledgeable and happy to walk you through their roasting process and the flavors of their beans. If you're a coffee lover looking to dive deeper into the world of coffee, Timbertrain is a great place to start.
3. Matchstick Coffee Roasters
Location: 213 E Georgia St, Vancouver
Matchstick Coffee Roasters is a Vancouver gem known for its sustainable coffee and laid-back vibe. With a focus on both the quality of the coffee and the environment, Matchstick works directly with farmers to source beans that are ethically grown. The interior design is clean and modern, creating a welcoming atmosphere for both solo visitors and groups.
What to Try:
The cappuccino is a fan favorite, with its perfectly balanced ratio of espresso to steamed milk.
Pair your drink with one of their freshly baked pastries — the morning bun and the blueberry scone are both excellent choices.
Why Visit: For those who care about sustainability, Matchstick offers a great mix of quality coffee and a commitment to ethical sourcing. They also offer a wide range of brewing methods, from pour-over to siphon brewing, so you can try different ways of making your coffee.
4. The Birds & The Beans
Location: 2083 W 4th Ave, Vancouver
The Birds & The Beans is a cozy neighborhood cafe in the Kitsilano area, known for its relaxed atmosphere and expertly brewed coffee. It's the perfect spot to spend a leisurely afternoon or grab a quick coffee before heading out for a walk. The café's bright, airy space and inviting décor make it a popular choice for both locals and visitors.
What to Try:
The iced latte is a refreshing option, especially on a warm Vancouver day. If you're in the mood for something sweet, their signature caramel macchiato is a delicious treat.
Don’t miss out on their selection of house-made pastries. The banana bread and oatmeal cookies are crowd favorites.
Why Visit: Whether you're stopping by for a quick caffeine fix or enjoying a long, relaxing break, The Birds & The Beans provides a warm and welcoming environment. It's the kind of place where you'll feel right at home.
5. 49th Parallel Café & Lucky's Doughnuts
Location: 2902 Main St, Vancouver
49th Parallel Café is a Vancouver staple known for its high-quality coffee and indulgent doughnuts, thanks to its collaboration with Lucky's Doughnuts. The café offers a fantastic selection of espresso drinks, drip coffee, and an assortment of tasty baked goods. The cozy and bright interior is perfect for working, meeting friends, or simply enjoying a well-made cup of coffee.
What to Try:
The flat white at 49th Parallel is a creamy, rich option that pairs perfectly with a doughnut.
Lucky’s Doughnuts are a must-try. The maple bacon doughnut is a local favorite, combining sweet and savory flavors in a way that feels surprisingly perfect.
Why Visit: 49th Parallel Café is more than just a café — it’s a full experience. With its top-notch coffee and delicious doughnuts, it’s the ideal place to satisfy both your caffeine cravings and your sweet tooth.
6. Cafe Medina
Location: 780 Richards St, Vancouver
For something a bit more unique, Cafe Medina offers a cozy, European-inspired atmosphere and specializes in Mediterranean-inspired brunches, making it a perfect spot to start your day. The café is often busy, especially on weekends, but it’s worth the wait. Medina’s coffee offerings are delicious, and the café’s signature waffles and savory dishes make it a popular brunch destination.
What to Try:
Try their signature lavender latte for something a little different — it’s a sweet, floral take on the classic latte.
If you're hungry, the waffles are a must-try. Pair them with a freshly brewed cup of coffee for a satisfying meal.
Why Visit: Cafe Medina is a beloved spot for its fusion of great coffee, delicious food, and vibrant atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot for those who want more than just a cup of coffee — it’s a full experience of flavor and relaxation.
7. Prado Café
Location: 100-2881 Main St, Vancouver
Prado Café is a popular local café with multiple locations in Vancouver. Known for its excellent coffee and friendly service, Prado serves as a go-to spot for both coffee lovers and people looking for a casual spot to hang out. Their team of expert baristas always serves a top-notch cup of coffee, and their diverse menu ensures that there’s something for everyone.
What to Try:
The classic latte is a solid choice, featuring rich espresso and perfectly textured milk.
For something a little different, try the iced matcha latte or one of their seasonal specials, which often feature unique ingredients.
Why Visit: Prado Café is all about community and quality. With an inviting atmosphere and consistently excellent coffee, it’s the kind of place that will quickly become your go-to neighborhood café.
8. Small Victory Bakery
Location: 1088 Homer St, Vancouver
While Small Victory Bakery is technically more of a bakery than a traditional coffee shop, it’s an essential stop for anyone in search of a great cup of coffee in Vancouver. The café’s exceptional pastries and light bites pair perfectly with their high-quality coffee. Small Victory’s clean, bright interior and friendly vibe make it a perfect place for a coffee break.
What to Try:
Enjoy a cappuccino paired with a freshly baked croissant or one of their indulgent pastries.
The banana bread is a great option if you’re craving something slightly sweeter.
Why Visit: Small Victory Bakery is a top choice for anyone who loves quality coffee and delicious baked goods. Whether you’re a regular or a first-time visitor, you’re sure to be impressed by the flavor and craftsmanship in every cup.
9. Elysian Coffee
Location: 599 W Pender St, Vancouver
Elysian Coffee is one of Vancouver's best-kept secrets, offering artisanal coffee in a charming, minimalist setting. Known for its dedication to quality and its focus on perfecting the art of brewing, Elysian Coffee is a haven for those looking for exceptional espresso and pour-over coffee.
What to Try:
The classic espresso is beautifully balanced and rich, offering a taste of what this café does best.
Pair your coffee with a pastry or a savory snack from their rotating menu.
Why Visit: If you’re looking for a quiet, low-key café with some of the best coffee in the city, Elysian Coffee is a must-visit. Its emphasis on quality and dedication to the craft make it a favorite among coffee purists.
10. La Foret Café
Location: 3439 W Broadway, Vancouver
Nestled in the heart of Vancouver's Kitsilano neighborhood, La Foret Café offers a unique and intimate coffee experience. This charming café has an artsy vibe, with a strong emphasis on supporting local artists and creators. With a beautiful wooden interior, friendly service, and a menu that blends international flavors, La Foret is the perfect place for a relaxing coffee break or a casual meet-up with friends.
What to Try:
The Matcha Latte is a standout. Smooth and flavorful, it’s a great option for anyone looking for something a little different from the traditional coffee drinks.
Pair your drink with one of their artisanal pastries — the lemon scones and croissants are particularly popular.
Why Visit: La Foret Café is not only a great place for coffee but also an artistic space that hosts various cultural events and exhibitions. It’s an ideal spot for those who appreciate art, music, and delicious coffee in an inviting and creative environment. The café’s focus on quality, as well as its community-driven approach, makes it a must-visit for those in the Kitsilano area.
Vancouver’s coffee scene is thriving, with cafes offering everything from high-end pour-overs and espresso drinks to cozy spots perfect for relaxing and unwinding. Whether you’re a coffee aficionado or just looking for a comfortable place to sip your daily cup, Vancouver has a café that will meet your needs. So, the next time you find yourself in this vibrant city, be sure to visit one (or more) of these fantastic coffee spots. With so many options to choose from, there's always a new brew to try and a cozy corner to enjoy it in.
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