TEAJA Lab | Photo: Jana Josue
Autumn is an especially nice time to explore Vancouver. And when you need a break, a cozy cafe is the best place to get off your feet and warm up with your hot beverage of choice. A cafe is also a nice place to escape to when you have hotel room fever, but still need to get some stuff done or want to enjoy your book. Get cozy at these Vancouver cafes.
Food and hot beverages at Dalina Cafe. | Photo: Jana Josue
Having travelled solo a fair amount, I’m very happy in my own company. Wherever I go, I seek out a cozy cafe where I can settle in with a hot mug of tea and whatever book I’m reading at the time. It’s the perfect break from exploring a city, and the best way to people watch. And lucky for us Vancouverites and visitors alike, Vancouver is no exception with its vast selection of cozy cafes. (Or people watching.)
As there are so many, how to choose?? I’ve rounded up a list of six, each in a different neighbourhood of Vancouver—both some personal favourites plus a couple on my list. Let’s get cozy!
Photo: Jana Josue
Dalina Cafe
Located in the heart of Chinatown, just a short walk from the Main Street Skytrain Station, Dalina Cafe is serving up house-made Italian inspired food and hot beverages. The clean and bright indoor aesthetic and covered (and heated!) outdoor patio make for an oasis from the brisk autumn breeze and rain. Be sure to try a soup or hearty salad to go with your cappuccino or tea.
Address: 687 Main Street | Website
TEAJA Lab | Photo: Jana Josue
TEAJA Lab
TEAJA Lab features over 50 organic, rare to find loose leaf teas, and snug window seating with a prime street view of trendy Yaletown. As a testing ground for launching new blends and signature drinks, it’s not uncommon for visitors to have the opportunity to try something unique. This writer’s personal favourite is the Lavender Earl Grey.
Address: 1072 Mainland Street | Website
Greenhorn Cafe | Photo: Greenhorn Cafe
Greenhorn Espresso Bar
Right at the heart of vancouver’s West End, this hygge coffee shop is a hipster favourite—or anyone with a discerning coffee palate. There’s an upper level with additional seating and records (remember those?) for purchase. Food is also on offer, but if you’re looking to get some work done or upload photos, consider visiting before or after lunchtime—they apparently shut off the wi-fi to encourage human interaction.
Address: 994 Nicola Street | Website
Lost + Found | Photo: Lost + Found
Lost + Found
On my list of places to explore in my city, I can’t wait to get lost (ha) in a comfy corner of what looks to be a vast bohemian space. Located in Gastown, Lost + Found has created a niche in the downtown Vancouver community—providing good food and great coffee, where philanthropy and creativity meet. This cafe also doubles as a space for evening events.
Address: 33 West Hastings Street | Website
Pastries at Beaucoup Bakery | Photo: Beaucoup Bakery
Beaucoup Bakery
Another on my list of to-visits! On the border of South Granville and Kitsilano sits the charming bakery with a big heart that is Beaucoup Bakery & Café. With French-inspired pastries—including the (I’m told) to-die-for croissants—Beaucoup is a taste of France in Vancouver. Their Acts of Kindness points program is a refreshing take on a rewards initiative and it looks so very very French. I can’t wait.
Address: 2150 Fir Street | Website
Photo Credit: Secret Garden Tea Company
Secret Garden Tea Company
No, this isn’t a cafe. But it’s one of the coziest places in the city. And I’ve been going for high tea at historic Kerrisdale‘s Secret Garden Tea Company for longer than I care to admit. Each teacup and saucer pair is unique, and their scones and chocolate sweets are my kryptonite. They also recently launched their vegan high tea to complement their traditional, gluten-free, and vegetarian offerings.
Address: 2138 W. 40th Avenue | Website
For some more cozy cafe suggestions, visit the Coffee Culture page on the Tourism Vancouver website.
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