Incredible independent coffee shops in Vancouver

As a blogger, I almost always have more work to do, more emails to respond to and more posts to write. To combine my work and play on weekends, I like to treat myself to a work session at a local coffee shop. I always find that getting out of the house is the best way to spur inspiration, and these beautiful coffee shops have helped get me out of even my worst creative-block!

Revolver Coffee

1
325 Cambie St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2N4

This quaint coffee shop on Cambie Street has been one of my longtime favourites. I personally cannot even walk by without popping in for a traditional cappuccino, or two. This is the first café that I really exposed me to the art of creating unique and delicious coffees. Watch as the talented coffee masters perfect-pour an artisanal cappuccino, latte or Americano.

Prado Cafe

2
Lwr 1938 Commercial Dr, Vancouver, BC V5N 4A7

Prado on Commercial Drive typically offers a quiet and calm atmosphere, which is perfect for those looking to get a bit of work done while sipping on a decadent coffee. Whenever I go to Prado, I can’t help but indulge myself in one of their delicious cappuccinos.

Luna Cafe

3
117 Water St, Vancouver, BC V6B 1A7

This beautiful and cozy café in the heart of Gastown offers an inspiring rustic space, and delicious coffees. The interior has a more social atmosphere, so it’s one I would recommend for blogger meet-ups or a coffee date. If you decide to try out Luna Café then be sure to treat yourself to their Nutella cappuccino and a gluten-free brownie with raspberries – yum!

GIOVANE CAFE + EATERY + MARKET

4
1038 Canada Place, Vancouver, BC V6C 0B9

Giovane Café is an excellent spot for a work meeting as it offers a professional setting and a convenient downtown location inside the Fairmont Pacific Rim Hotel. The cafés modern aesthetic isn’t the only thing that I adore; their delicious coffee is also quite a draw!

Timbertrain Coffee Roasters Ltd

5
311 Cordova St W, Vancouver, BC V6B 1E5

Located in Gastown, Timbertrain is a beautiful light-filled café and micro-roaster, and a great spot to try if you’re looking for the perfect cappuccino. If you’re lucky enough to nab a spot in the railcar-inspired seating area, make sure you stick around to watch as the baristas prepare pour-over coffee orders at the slow bar.

Buro

6
356 Water St, Vancouver, BC V6B 1B6

This Kitsilano café is a bustling and busy neighbourhood spot that always seems to attract a crowd. Their rich and delicious coffees are only the beginning of the joys at 49th Parallel as they also offer incredible rave-worthy treats from Lucky’s Doughnuts. This is an ideal venue for a coffee date with friends.

The Coffee Bar

7
10 Water St, Vancouver, BC V6B 1A4

A caffeine lover’s haven, Coffee Bar offers a clean modern layout and delicious espresso drinks prepared with beans from 49th Parallel. The Gastown location is a spacious architect-designed space with plenty of seating, making it an easy spot to meet a friend for coffee and snacks while also enjoying the up-beat atmosphere of the historic neighbourhood.

JJ Bean Coffee Roasters

8
1188 Alberni St, Vancouver, BC V6E 1A5

JJ Bean has to be one of my favourite local coffee shops. I frequent the Alberni Street location before work to indulge myself in a latte and am always astounded at how delicious and creamy it tastes. With multiple locations around Vancouver, there’s no reason to not try an espresso-based beverage from JJ Bean– but be warned, their drinks are deliciously addictive (as are their pastries).

When you’re just not ready for your date night to end, it can be a challenge to know what exactly to do next. Rather than simply head home, take your special someone to indulge in their sweet tooth at one of these yummy dessert spots in Vancouver. [Image courtesy of Thierry; photo credit: Leila Kwok]
If there’s one thing my fiancé and I indulge in a bit too often, it’s dining out. But along with this expensive little habit, I’ve gained some knowledge about the city’s most romantic restaurants. While we are always looking for hidden gems, we’ve also been lucky enough to try incredibly delicious food at some of Vancouver’s most beautiful dining destinations. Keep these local spots in mind for your next date night.
Forever a sweet tooth at heart, I have a continuously growing list of sweet spots in Vancouver to get my sugar fix. The city is home to so many incredible bakeries and decadent dessert places; so if you love your sugar as much as I do, be sure to keep the following locations on your must-visit list!
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