The best cafes for your coffee fix in Vancouver's West End
It is said that Vancouverites’ love of coffee is almost as strong as the bold double espresso in their cups. We’ve honed in on one of Downtown’s oldest neighbourhoods to investigate the crop of new and established coffee shops well worth visiting. Perk up—it’s time to find your new favourite.
Cardero Bottega
1016 Cardero St, Vancouver, BC V6G 2H1A true neighbourhood café, tiny Cardero Bottega offers European-style coffee, unbelievable almond croissants, select specialty groceries (think fruit preserves & organic Russian garlic), and addictive Earnest Ice Cream (with refills!). It’s counter service only, but expect owner John to swing by your table and check that you have what you need.
Greenhorn Cafe
994 Nicola St, Vancouver, BC V6G 2C8Nestled into the leafy ‘hood’s central core, Greenhorn is doing a steady business with its fresh brunch and lunch. Hang out on their sidewalk patio or head to their loft to admire the rotating gallery of local artists. Don’t forget to grab one of their creative floral arrangements as you leave.
Melriches Coffeehouse Inc
1244 Davie St, Vancouver, BC V6E 1N3A stalwart on Davie Street, Melriches has been serving their hearty & delicious breakfasts to West End locals for 25 years. A proud institution in the heart of the LGBT community, this coffeehouse with its warm wood feel is lively, friendly and laid-back.
Delany's Coffee House
1105 Denman St, Vancouver, BC V6G 2M7Plan to bump into someone you know at this long-serving coffee shop on Denman’s bustling strip. Delany’s hums with activity at all hours. Settle in at the back with your mobile office or nab a seat at the front window—these are some of the better people-watching perches the city has to offer.
Barnaby Coffee Roasters Inc
849 Denman St, Vancouver, BC V6G 2L7Brian Turko is arguably Vancouver’s most passionate coffee connoisseur when it comes to bean procurement and roasting. An expert at mixing roasts, he’ll present you with the perfectly brewed espresso to knock back at the bar. Just stopping in? Grab a scoop of pistachio gelato for your wander down Denman to the beach.
JJ Bean Coffee Roasters
1209 Bidwell St, Vancouver, BC V6G 2K7This home-grown cafe may be sprouting franchises faster than you can order your specialty coffee, but their store-specific vibe gives them West End cred. Catering to commuters, lineups move fast but never to the detriment of barista friendliness or perfect brewing. And just try to resist the smell of their freshly baked muffins.
Aquilini Thierry Ltd
1059 Alberni St, Vancouver, BC V6E 1A1You’d be hard-pressed to find a more authentically French café in the heart of Vancouver’s downtown. Petit fours and Parisian pastries are photography-worthy behind their glass cases, sandwiches come in perfectly toothsome baguettes, coffee is best enjoyed year-round on their heated and covered outdoor patio, and they’re fully licenced. Bon appétit!
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