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6 Best Coffee Shops in Banff, Alberta

Oct 14, 2024 • Leigh McDonald

Our expert staff selects the products we cover and rigorously researches in depth our top picks. If you buy through our links, we may get a commission.

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Banff, Alberta, a resort town within Banff National Park, isn't just known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities. This picturesque mountain town is also home to an evolving coffee culture that appreciates the balance of quality, atmosphere, and sustainable practices. Over the years, Banff has cultivated an impressive collection of coffee shops, each offering unique blends and brewing methods, along with cozy, work-friendly environments. The town's love for coffee goes beyond just a morning wake-me-up or a casual meet-up; it's a vital part of the local culture. From the artisanal blends of Banff Roasting Company to the fair trade brews at Whitebark Cafe, the coffee scene here caters to everyone, from the casual sipper to the discerning coffee connoisseur.

How we selected these coffee shops

We've considered several factors in our selection of the best coffee shops in Banff. These include:

  • The quality of their coffee, giving preference to shops that source high-quality, ethically sourced beans.
  • Online customer reviews and ratings, as they provide valuable insights into the overall customer experience.
  • The ambiance of the coffee shop, considering if it is a suitable environment for working or socializing.

Our Top Picks

Based on the above criteria, we've come up with a list of top picks for various categories:

  • Best for work: Whitebark Cafe
  • Best for meetings: Evelyn's Coffee Bar
  • Best patio: Banff Roasting Company
  • Best coffee: Whitebark Cafe.

Whitebark Cafe

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4.6 out of 985 Reviews • 401 Banff Ave, Banff, AB T1L 1A9, Canada
Whitebark CafeWhitebark Cafe

Located in the impressive Banff Aspen Lodge, the Whitebark Café has positioned itself as a leading coffee house in town. Evidently passionate about their brews, their selection is heavily focused on Moja coffee, which is both fair trade and organic. Their Imara Espresso is a standout with notes of cocoa and caramel, which is delightfully balanced and offers a thick creamy finish. Customers can also choose from rotating Moja’s single-origin beans for drip coffee. For darker coffee lovers, they would surely appreciate the bold flavors of Sumatran and Guatemalan beans. Tea lovers, however, aren't left behind, with an extensive selection of loose leaf tea from the Banff Tea Company.

For a grab and go option, Whitebark Café offers a variety of light meals from breakfast wraps to sausage rolls. Their muffins, banana breads and cheesecake with a dash of raspberry coulis are also quite indulging for anyone with a sweet tooth.

Banff Roasting Company

Banff Roasting CompanyBanff Roasting Company

Banff Roasting Company, an artisan coffee supplier in the heart of Bow Valley, distinguishes itself with the quality of coffee it offers. Their beans are described as exceptional, and due to the attention they pay to the roasting process, the resulting espresso is reportedly enjoyable. The expertise they bring to their craft is significant, so much so that even those who are just visiting for a cup can perceive the care put into it. All the offerings from their selection - whether a cup of coffee or a bag of beans - are praiseworthy, a result of small batch roasting of 100% Arabica. Banff Roasting Company is indeed a destination to consider for any lover of fine coffee.

Good Earth Coffeehouse - Banff

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4.3 out of 729 Reviews • 333 Banff Ave, Banff, AB T1L 1B1, Canada
Good Earth Coffeehouse - BanffGood Earth Coffeehouse - Banff

Evelyn's Coffee Bar

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4.2 out of 816 Reviews • 215 Banff Ave, Banff, AB T1L 1A4, Canada
Evelyn's Coffee BarEvelyn's Coffee Bar

Evelyn's Coffee Bar, nestled in the heart of Banff, Alberta, has been serving the community since 1992. This classic shop prides itself on delivering unforgettable coffee experiences, with the toffee latte with soy milk and mocha being highly recommended. Their coffee menu is rather diverse, offering even matcha lattes with an array of syrup options for customization. Peach syrup, while reportedly not an ideal pairing with matcha, is among the numerous options patrons can choose from.

Their iced mocha latte has also received commendations, boasting a palatable mocha flavor that is just right, not too overpowering. This coffee shop not only is known for its coffee but its food garners attention too, with their breakfast sandwich and freshly baked items also receiving nods of approval from customers. In essence, Evelyn's Coffee Bar offers a touch of uniqueness in their drinks and adds a touch of retro in their ambiance, making it a noteworthy spot for coffee lovers.

The Happy Camper Café & Bar

The Happy Camper Café & BarThe Happy Camper Café & Bar

Canalta Lodge's coffee shop provides an adequate coffee experience. The shop, adorning the lobby, presents a varied choice of hot and cold beverages to cater to differing tastes. One distinct feature is its self-serve brew system, which may or may not be appealing, depending on personal preference. The latte, however, can appear weak compared to other places. In complement to their coffee, Canalta offers light food options and a selection of snacks, enabling an overall balanced and fulfilling experience.

Banff National Perk

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4.5 out of 184 Reviews • 220 Bear St, Banff, AB T1L 1A1, Canada
Banff National PerkBanff National Perk

Banff National Perk CoffeeHouse, a popular choice among locals since 1988, provides an array of specialty coffees that always hit the spot. The coffee is flavorful, acting as the perfect accompaniment to their assortment of baked goods, breakfast sandwiches, and bagels. Their lunch options are equally impressive, with sandwiches, wraps, and soup on the menu. For those on the go, their box lunches are a convenient choice, complete with a tasty selection of treats. While the atmosphere is relatively simple, its casual and relaxed vibe is part of its charm. Notably, their service is deemed efficient and friendly, contributing to a pleasant overall experience. Overall, Banff National Perk CoffeeHouse holds its own with a solid coffee selection and a variety of food items.

Diving into Banff's Rich History

Banff, located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies within the province of Alberta, is a small town with a population of about 8,000 people. Known for its scenic beauty, it is a major tourist destination attracting millions of visitors each year.

  • The town was named in 1884 after Banffshire, Scotland, the birthplace of two of the original directors of the Canadian Pacific Railway.
  • Banff National Park, established in 1885, is the oldest national park in Canada.
  • The town has a rich history of coffee, dating back to the early 20th century when the first coffee shop opened its doors. This ignited Banff’s love affair with coffee, and today, the town is home to a vibrant coffee culture.

Best Coffee Spots in Banff

Banff boasts several unique coffee shops where both locals and tourists gather to savor a cup of coffee and enjoy the stunning surroundings. Here are the top six coffee shops in Banff.

  1. Wild Flour Bakery: Known for its fresh pastries and delicious coffee, Wild Flour Bakery is a local favorite. The café provides a cozy atmosphere and a view of the mountains.
  2. Whitebark Cafe: This café is loved for its artisanal coffee and its commitment to sustainability. Every cup of coffee here is made with organic beans and served in compostable cups.
  3. Evelyn’s Coffee Bar: One of Banff’s oldest coffee shops, Evelyn’s Coffee Bar is famous for its home-roasted coffee and friendly staff.
  4. Rave Coffee: With a wide selection of single-origin beans, Rave Coffee is the go-to spot for coffee connoisseurs.
  5. Banff Roasting Company: This locally owned café serves hand-roasted coffee in a rustic and warm setting.
  6. Jump Start Coffee: Known for its delicious breakfast and fast service, Jump Start Coffee is a perfect place to start your day.

The Allure of Banff's Coffee Scene

Banff's coffee scene is as vibrant and inviting as the town itself. The unique mix of historical and contemporary coffee shops provides a welcoming atmosphere for both locals and tourists. It's a testament to Banff's longstanding relationship with coffee. If you ever find yourself in this beautiful town, don't forget to check out these amazing coffee shops and find your own favorite. The rich aroma of coffee mixed with the breathtaking views of the Rockies is an experience you won't want to miss.

Author

My coffee journey spans 15 years of diverse experiences. Starting from those first sips, my passion for the industry has grown steadily. I've enjoyed working at a local coffee shop, exploring cultures worldwide, meeting incredible farmers on plantation tours, and helping launch a family member's coffee roasting venture. Throughout this journey, discovering and buying coffee from local roasters to support community businesses has been a pleasure. Through Roast Love, I aim to create content that informs, raises awareness, and helps you, the reader, buy and brew that perfect cup of coffee.

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