Hello Hello! As promised here are the first 5 coffee shops (a little late - but always, better late than never!) Besides, I had somewhat of a good reason...
As some of you may know - as per my Insta stories - I dropped my iPhone 6 in water a few months back. I just received my new iPhone 7Plus yesterday afternoon! Finally! Obviously, I couldn’t waste anymore time on my broken - annoying - piece of crapola of a phone so I spent all afternoon with a fido representative, trying to migrate everything over from one gadget to the other.
Before we get started, this is how it’s going to go down; originally I thought of visiting all 25 coffee shops and only write a review about my top 5... But I changed my mind. When I was searching the web, trying to find the slightest clues on cozy coffee shops around the city, I only found a couple blogs. Disappointingly, both showcasing the same places. No wonder I’m having such a rough time trying to find new - hidden gems... Everyone goes to the same places!
So I decided to create a solid database of all the coffee shops I visit. Right now my list is at 25. Though, that list is never ending; every time I cross a spot that catches my eye I add it to the list!
Here are the things I’ll be looking for when checking them out.
The feels; neighborhood, interior, seating space, lighting, tunes,
Without further ado! Lets get to it.
2839 W Broadway, Vancouver, BC V6K 2G6
Neighborhood: The area is cool, there’s a lot of shops and restaurants all along the strip. It’s a busy area so it feels safe for sure. This place wasn’t hard to find, it stands out quite a bit with its white interior and 2 swings dangling in the front window for everyone to see.
Interior: The Interior is definitely top notch if you’re looking for a cool backdrop for your new Instagram post! The white interior with the floating plants on the wall is a “one of a kind” interior decor. Especially the 2 white swings hanging from the ceiling.
Seating space: The space wasn’t very big. I’d say there’s space for approximately 15- 20 people - long tables with white metal chairs. Unfortunately there’s only 2 swings (I know.. lame) ; I’m afraid it’s first come first served. So Good Luck!
Lighting: Very bright. neon- like lighting.
Tunes: Indie tunes rocking.
Food: They have a couple meal options such as the recently famous Avocado toast, sandwiches & bowls. Of course you also have your typical baked goods.
Overall, I think this place was a winner for its interior design- very unique and Insta worthy- who doesn’t like that nowadays?! It’d be a perfect place for a pit stop. A place to have a break to grab a cup of something wonderful, after a day of shopping the Broadway strip... Although this place was unique, it wouldn’t be my first choice. If I’m going out of my way to spend hours on end somewhere, I need a place that’ll calm me. A place that’ll ground me- bring me back to earth. The brightness may be a bit much for me (although my friend pointed out that in the morning with all the daylight it doesn't feel as aggressive). The loud tunes and metal chairs wouldn’t allow me to last a full day. That being said it’s definitely a place to check out on your next coffee break though!
994 Nicola St, Vancouver, BC V6G 2C8
Neighborhood: The area is quiet. It’s in the middle of a residential area. If you didn’t know it was there you might miss it. In fact, I did. It’s quaint, cute and I like it already.
Interior: The outside looks like nothing special, but the inside is bigger than you think. The joint is spread out over two levels. the first with the bar to order from with a few high tables and window seats available. Works of art are decorating the walls and grand chandeliers are accentuating the room along with wood beams. The second level holds 2 long tables with shared seating. This place is cozy with a Shabby-Chic look to it, a style I adore.
Seating space: Sufficient amount, although it can get busy, so I’d say pick your arrival time wisely.
Lighting: It’s mostly natural lighting thanks to the storefront (practically) floor to ceiling windows. The artificial lighting has a warm feel to it. Overall its not too bright but just right.
Tunes: Indie lounge rap - perfect volume, meant for background noise only.
Outlets: No, only behind the bar
Food: I must say their food is v tasty! I’ve been there a couple times now, and my taste buds we’re having a party every time. They serve pastries, soups, sandwiches, salads... and more. I highly recommend the visit even if it’s specifically for the food.
I love this place so much that I would probably make the trek to come write here just for the food and the vibe. Even though, I probably wouldn’t end up spending day. Why is that? Well, their food is worth the travel but the high tables and lack of outlets would be a problem after a while. Add the outlets and I'd compromise with the high chairs for the love I have for this place.
2200 Arbutus St, Vancouver, BC V6J 3Y1
Neighborhood: Quaint, Cute, Quiet. Surrounded by Character homes!
Interior: The interior is very small but the cutest coffee shop out of the 5 for sure! With its rustic feel, it got me at hello!
Seating space: I’d say it fits about a dozen people in Total! You’ll find benches and chairs surrounding tiny round tables.
Lighting: Dim lighting. There were white lights decorating the inside, I’m not sure if it was a permanent situation or if it was the holiday decor, regardless it was hella cute!
Tunes: They had little french tunes playing. I honestly felt like I landed in Paris for a bit.
Food: They had a variety of baked goods, and heavier meals. I ordered their hot chocolate ( being the expert I am in that domain), I was impressed with their skills! This was the first place I’ve ever been to that offered to top my hot chocolate with marshmallows! More places should do this.
I would absolutely take time out of my day to come spend some time here. The vibe was everything. It’s everything I love in a coffee shop, the only thing that may make it hard to work here for hours on end, is the limited seating and space. It’s apparently not so much a hidden gem anymore... It apparently can get quite crowded, making it loud and little to no privacy. Perhaps it’s worth it though!
315 Carrall St, Vancouver, BC V6A 0A7
Neighborhood: Nelson The Seagull is in Gastown. Can’t get any better than that really.
Interior: The interior is large! High ceilings, large windows. Tile flooring, large tables, rustic- antique feels.
Seating space: Ample amounts of seating from small 4 seaters to large tables, as well as benches with cushions.
Lighting: Warm lighting. Bright enough to study.
Tunes: Low volume, Folky tunes.
Food: I loved their menu, serving a variety of different options, from breakfasts to lunches. From pastries to poached eggs to roast beef. Great venue for food!
Overall I was pleasantly surprised! I loved the space this place has, literally and figuratively. The feel, food, all of it... This would be one of my first picks for sure! I give it A+
The Buzz Cafe & Espresso Bar
901 Homer St, Vancouver, BC V6B
Neighborhood: Located in Yaletown corner of Smithe & Homer. a busier corner but a clean, fancier area. Not too far from the Homeland/Mainland strip. One of my fave areas.
Interior: The interior is large! It’s much bigger than it appears at first sight. From outside, If you didn’t pay attention to the window signs you wouldn’t know that this was a coffee shop. There’s 2 signs sticking out of the building stating there’s an art gallery inside. And there is! It’s a coffee shop within a gallery. Or it’s a gallery within a coffee shop... When you first walk in you have a very small area to order, accompanied by 4 tables. Going up the stairs you’ll find the Art Gallery, high ceilings, and several seating areas! each with different separated seating arrangement; from tables to couches.
Seating space: ample amounts of seating, some secluded, some comfier than others. Seating arrangements to suit all kinds.
Lighting: Dim lighting. Once you’re upstairs there’s little day light making it through. the Brick walls and wood beams give a dark feel to the place.
Tunes: Instrumental eccentric. Not too loud.
Food: You’ll find all the typical pastries and your typical coffee shop drinks.
I liked the concept of this place a lot and I liked the idea of being able to lounge on a couch without necessarily being close proximity to anyone else. They also have books you can borrow if you felt like popping by and having a read with your coffee. Very fun concept overall, with everything you need to feel at home. Although, its dark and dim decor may be a bit heavy after a few hours. I’m not sure I would enjoy an overly long stay. But who knows! A good spot nonetheless, I recommend the visit!
So there you have it folks! The First Five.
I’ve got so many more places to see, and my eyes are forever peeled for more to add. If you’ve enjoyed the read I’d love your feedback. Am I missing anything on the check list that you’d like to see me add? Did you like the presentation or would you have these presented differently?
Let me know in the comments below!
Ctrl+Shift+ But first coffee (hot chocolate)
