Whether you’re looking for a slow morning spot, a mid-day caffeine fix, or somewhere to post up with your laptop and get things done, Vancouver’s café scene has something for every mood. From sleek minimalist interiors to heritage spaces with character, these are some of the best cafés in the city right now.
📍 East Vancouver (Grandview-Woodland)
For the coffee purists: Prototype is micro-roasting on-site and offers a deep menu of filter options. The space is simple and functional, letting the coffee speak for itself. If you’re into pour-overs and experimenting with new beans, this is your place.
Go for: V60 pour-over or cold brew flight.
Vibe: Quiet, serious, and small-batch focused.
📍 Main Street | Gastown | Great Northern Way
Kafka’s is a local favourite for its well-balanced espresso and bright, open interiors. It’s also home to local art and good tunes, making it a regular spot for creatives and students alike. Their Great Northern Way location is ideal if you need to get some work done in a calming space.
Go for: Iced oat latte, pistachio croissants, and a quiet weekday vibe.
Vibe: Airy, artsy, and a little bit offbeat.
📍 Great Northern Way
Best for: A refined yet relaxed café experience
This airy, architectural space near the Emily Carr campus nails the balance between serious coffee and laid-back calm. Nemesis at Great Northern Way offers the same standout brews and in-house Butterboom pastries the brand is known for — without the downtown crowds. Natural light, clean lines, and carefully sourced beans make this a standout for anyone who wants a premium coffee moment without the pretense.
📍 East 28th & St. George
Tucked away on a quiet, tree-lined street, Le Marché St. George is one of Vancouver’s most charming secrets. Part café, part corner store, it offers rustic French vibes with beautiful ceramics, fresh crêpes, and espresso served in worn-in vintage mugs. It’s less about performance and more about atmosphere — warm, lived-in, and perfectly imperfect.
📍 Chinatown
Slo Coffee always has my heart for its minimalist vibe in the heart of Chinatown. The space invites you to slow down, sip slowly, and notice the details — both in your cup and around you. The coffee is dialled in, the design is Scandinavian-inspired, and the atmosphere is effortlessly serene.