Everybody needs coffee, especially in the morning. Coffee contains caffeine, which helps people feel less tired, increases energy levels, and improves productivity as well as brain function. Those who don’t drink coffee rely on tea to get the same effect. Some research points to the fact that tea consumption of 2-3 cups daily is also associated with a reduced risk of premature death, heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.
But where are the best places to access this magical elixir? If you are new to Vancouver, you will want to enjoy not just the brew, but also the view. There are new shops, hidden shops, chain shops and unique, one-of-a-kind places to enjoy your hot or cold beverage of choice. Even restaurants that offer coffee and tea at “Happy Hour” or in the mid-morning hours.
Let’s start with my favourite:
- Thomas Haas – A fourth-generation pâtissier, Thomas Haas was first introduced to the delicate art of hand-crafting chocolates and pastries in the kitchen of Cafe Konditorei Haas, opened by his great-grandfather in the Black Forest region of Aichhalden, Germany in 1918. Thomas carried the torch and continued his family’s long-standing tradition, apprenticing and working with top chefs in Michelin-starred restaurants across Europe en route to earning his stripes as Konditormeister, or Master Pastry Chef.- https://www.thomashaas.com/
- True Confections Broadway – What can I say? I love cake: Huge selection of made-in-house desserts, plus specialty coffees & teas, for dining in or takeout. “Love at first bite”. https://trueconfections.ca/
- Off The Tracks on Granville Island – Coffee, baked goods, sandwiches and breakfast for dine in or take out. Found on the somewhat hidden Railspur Alley in between artisans studios run by glassblowers, potters, jewellers and even broommakers – https://tracksbistro.ca/
- Prospect Point Stanley Park Cafe – Their cafe facility features locally roasted Moja coffee and fresh baked goods, sandwiches and salads. Savour your coffee while enjoying spectacular views of the North Shore Mountains, Lions Gate Bridge and Burrard Inlet. – https://prospectpoint.com/dining/
- Top of Vancouver – The Top of Vancouver Revolving Restaurant offers stunning Continental dining at 553 feet (167m) with an unobstructed panoramic, one-of-a-kind view of Vancouver, the coastal mountains and the ocean. Windows specifically angled for maximum viewing of the city below. One revolution completed every 60 minutes. You might have to order a delicious meal before starting on coffee and dessert. https://www.topofvancouver.com/home
- Boathouse Restaurant Kitsilano – While also not technically a coffee shop, it is a great place for a cup of coffee while enjoying a view of Kits Beach, one of the most popular beaches in Vancouver. The Boathouse offers a premier dining experience with exceptional beachfront views and fresh ingredients – https://www.boathouserestaurants.ca/location/boathouse-restaurants-kitsilano/
- Boulevard – Conveniently located by the bus loop on University Blvd. The coffee shops actually roast their own coffee beans, making their hot beverages one of a kind and a popular pick among UBC’s coffee aficionados. They have many different tasty baked goods and several light lunch options on display. For those who prefer non-caffeine options, I’ve heard their offerings of herbal teas are amazing as well!
- Breka Bakery & Cafe – Breka Bakery & Cafe is a local family business born in 2006 at Fraser and 49th, in the lively neighbourhood of Sunset. They took over a well-established German bakery and have stayed true to its roots, while expanding its offer to at least 4 locations. Their “Bienenstich”, family sized apple strudel and freshly baked artisan rye breads (among others) are still made following some of the original recipes. – https://www.breka.ca/
- Fabourg French Bakery – Vancouver’s answer to Parisian elegance and decadent gastronomic adventures, Faubourg Paris caters to sophisticated gourmands and amateur epicures alike. With an unwavering commitment to excellence, Faubourg offers chic, contemporary settings and artisanal delights rivalling the famous boulangerie pâtisseries of Paris. Also a good location for pre or post Vancouver Art Gallery visit – https://www.faubourg.com/
- Caffe Super Veloce – Offers health-conscious food and drink in the Shaw Tower, including espresso beverages and bottled smoothies, as well as salads and snacks. They emphasize fitness, nutrition, and sustainability; customers can add energy-boosting supplements like maca, collagen, or glutamine to their smoothies or order “macro-friendly pastries.” Salads are made using seasonal ingredients and come in reusable glass jars that offer a discount when returned. They also offer “protein” donuts, (“Pronuts,”) in a variety of flavours- https://caffesuperveloce.com/
