Everyone knows cafes are great places to relax and pass some time. Even if you don’t drink coffee, the unique atmosphere inside a good coffee shop is ideal for people to just hang out, talk, and stay for a while before continuing their day. Renfrew Collingwood has its share of good caffeine-infused hangouts, each putting its own unique spin to the idea of a café. Here are some of the best around the area:
Kaur’s Coffee – Rich South Asian influences that make for a unique coffee experience
Kaur’s Coffee is a quaint neighbourhood coffee shop that serves pastries, pasta, and Indian inspired drinks. One unique offering is the Golden Latte, a sunny coffee concoction infused with turmeric, oat milk, and honey. There’s also the Rose Latte, a rosy cup made with Rooh Afza, a South Asian syrup flavoured with rose water and kewra. Brick walls and dark stained wood offer a warm and cozy space, perfect for hosting the occasional open mic night.
Timber Bistro & Books – A place designed for coffee-loving bookworms
Timber is somewhat hidden, tucked within Broadway Church in Vancouver. True to its name, Timber has a section of their space dedicated to books, surrounded by soft chairs where people can lounge and read. Timber’s menu offers a varied selection of coffee as well as an array of sweet and savory baked goods on display. The modern, spacious interiors can be quiet during the midday, perfect for those who are looking for a peaceful spot to work or take a break in.
Bakery Sate – Everything’s better when it’s homemade
Bakery Sate is an artisanal bakery that proudly creates everything from scratch. They also bake in-house, so prepare to taste fresh, warm pastries on any given day. Their selection of French croissants, bread, pastries, and more changes by the season depending on what ingredients are available. The same goes for their coffee. While usually favourites are offered, you can also check out more experimental drinks, like their Strawberry Coconut Iced Latte, developed just in time for summer.
King’s Café: Coffee. Beer. Wine. What more can you ask for?
What makes King’s Café different from other regular coffee shops? They offer beer and wine too! If the coffee selection (Farm Direct, Brazilian Bean, Single Origin) isn’t enough to soothe your stressful day, you can opt to spike your Americano with Baileys or come in during happy hour to enjoy cold beers for only $5. They also serve a wide assortment of pastries, soups, and made-to-order paninis for those who are feeling peckish.
Milk and Sugar Café: A local favourite and the best bubble tea around
Even though it’s called a “café,” Milk and Sugar is more known for its bubble tea than for their cup of coffee. A popular neighbourhood hangout that’s often packed after work hours, Milk and Sugar sells a variety of Asian drinks, desserts and savoury dishes. Fans flock to their social for updates on their weekly specials which usually feature crazy and unique combinations that create a party in your mouth. Watermelon cheesecake, anyone?