Calgary's Best Coffee Shops: A Guide to the City's Top Spots
Calgary has a rich coffee culture that spans many years, with Calgarians showing a real obsession for coffee. Higher Ground Coffee, the oldest coffee shop in the city, has been serving customers since 1976. The current coffee trends in the city are specialty coffee, such as piccolo and nitro, an increased desire for sustainability, and alternative milk options like oat and almond milk. According to a report by Yelp, there are over 1,500 coffee shops and cafes in the greater Calgary area, a number that's constantly changing with new coffee shops opening and others closing. The most popular neighborhoods for coffee shops are Kensington, 17th avenue, Inglewood, and Stephen Avenue in Downtown.
The coffee scene in Calgary has been booming in recent years, with new cafes popping up all over the city. From trendy, minimalist spots to cozy, rustic establishments, you will always find your taste.
Many of these cafes also feature local, organic ingredients and support sustainable practices, making them the best coffee shops in Calgary among environmentally conscious consumers. Whether you want a classic cappuccino or an adventurous latte with unique flavor combinations, baristas in Calgary’s cafes will give you an unforgettable experience.
Best Coffee Shops for Specialty Coffee
Monogram Coffee
Located in Fifth Avenue Place, Monogram Coffee is a top destination for coffee lovers seeking a quick caffeine fix or a place to unwind. This coffee shop is known for its delicious cappuccinos, americanos, chai lattes, and a wide selection of baked goods and toasties. The inviting interior, featuring minimalist design and bright natural light, makes it perfect for casual coffee meetings or solo work sessions. Monogram's big tables are great for those settling in with a laptop, and the pretty takeaway cups add a stylish touch to your experience. With its exceptional quality and friendly service, Monogram is one of Calgary’s top cafes.
Good Trade Coffee Company
Nestled in Kensington, Good Trade Coffee Company is a popular choice for coffee enthusiasts who value ethically sourced beans and a welcoming atmosphere. The modern, minimalist design creates a calm environment, enhanced by the abundant natural light. Good Trade offers a range of seating options, including cozy chairs and a window nook that's perfect for reading or working. Known for its top-quality coffee and relaxed vibe, it’s an ideal spot for both socializing and productivity.
Sought and Found Coffee Roasters
Sought and Found Coffee Roasters is a specialty coffee shop that emphasizes ethical sourcing and expertly roasted beans. Their minimalist, Scandinavian-inspired space is cozy and welcoming, perfect for those seeking a peaceful coffee experience. Offering a variety of brewing methods, from pour-over to espresso, Sought and Found ensures a high-quality coffee experience for all. As a roastery, they also sell beans for home brewing, so you can bring the magic of their coffee into your own kitchen.
The Roasterie
The Roasterie is a Calgary institution that has been roasting and serving delicious coffee for over 25 years. Known for their high-quality, small-batch roasted beans sourced from around the world, they offer a wide range of single-origin and blended coffee options. The cozy atmosphere, combined with a personalized customer experience, makes The Roasterie a favorite among locals. In addition to coffee, they also serve a selection of snacks and baked goods, making it a great place to relax or grab a quick pick-me-up.
Phil & Sebastian Coffee Roasters
Phil & Sebastian Coffee Roasters offers a modern and inviting atmosphere, with minimalist decor and plenty of seating. Known for sourcing high-quality beans from around the world and roasting them in-house, they ensure maximum freshness and flavor in every cup. Whether you're visiting one of their cafe locations or taking a tour of their roastery, you're in for an exceptional coffee experience. With locations in the Simmons Building, Marda Loop, and Hudson Block, Phil & Sebastian has become a staple for coffee lovers in Calgary.
Best Coffee Shops for Pastries
Higher Ground Cafe
Higher Ground Cafe, located in Kensington, is a beloved coffee shop that has been serving the community for over 40 years. Known for its cozy atmosphere and welcoming ambiance, the cafe offers a variety of coffee drinks, teas, and baked goods. Their menu also includes sandwiches, salads, and soups, making it a great spot for a casual lunch or a coffee break with friends. With ample seating and an outdoor patio, Higher Ground is a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a pastry or two.
Simmons Building Cafe - Phil & Sebastian
At Phil & Sebastian's Simmons Building Cafe, the modern decor and inviting atmosphere provide a comfortable space to enjoy specialty coffee drinks alongside light snacks and pastries. As a roastery and cafe, they are committed to offering only the freshest and most flavorful coffee, sourced from around the world and roasted in-house. Their dedication to quality and the relaxing ambiance make this cafe a great stop for coffee and pastry lovers alike.
Best Coffee Shops for Board Games
Hexagon Café
Hexagon Board Game Café is a unique blend of coffee and board games, offering a fun environment to enjoy both. With over 700 games available, customers can spend hours playing classics or discovering new favorites. The cozy and inviting atmosphere is perfect for socializing with friends or family while sipping on specialty coffees and teas. The knowledgeable staff are always ready to recommend games or help you learn the rules. Whether you’re a board game enthusiast or just looking for a new way to spend a cold day in Calgary, Hexagon Café is a fantastic choice.
Best Coffee Shops for Working or Studying
Kawa Espresso Bar
Kawa Espresso Bar is a sleek and upscale coffeehouse located in Calgary’s Dorchester Square Office Tower. Offering a wide range of drinks, including beer, wine, and cocktails in the evening, it’s a great spot for working or hanging out with friends. The cozy, laid-back atmosphere makes it perfect for studying or working, though you may need to bring a fully charged battery due to the limited outlets.
Cafe Beano
Cafe Beano is a long-standing favorite in Calgary, known for its specialty coffee drinks, homemade pastries, and light fare. The relaxed, diner-style atmosphere is perfect for a coffee date or a casual hangout with friends. With its cozy ambiance, friendly staff, and comfortable seating, it’s an ideal spot to enjoy great coffee and good company.
Rosso Coffee Roasters
Rosso Coffee Roasters offers specialty coffee sourced directly from producers around the world. Their six Calgary locations ensure that coffee lovers can easily get their caffeine fix, with the added experience of watching the coffee roasting process. Rosso's consistent quality and delicious breakfast options, such as their popular breakfast sandwich, make it a go-to spot for coffee and productivity.
Best Coffee Shop for Outdoor Patios
Baya Rica Cafe
Baya Rica Cafe is a vibrant, family-owned cafe that specializes in Latin American flavors and locally sourced ingredients. Their organic coffee is roasted on-site, and they offer a variety of brewing methods, including pour-over, siphon, and espresso. With a colorful and cozy atmosphere, this cafe is perfect for relaxing with a delicious cup of coffee and enjoying some Costa Rican snacks on their outdoor patio.
Vendome Cafe
Vendome Cafe is a charming and cozy spot that offers a welcoming atmosphere along with a menu full of coffee drinks, breakfast, brunch, and lunch options. The cafe's freshly baked pastries and relaxed ambiance make it an ideal place to enjoy a leisurely meal or quick coffee break, especially on their outdoor patio.
Best Coffee Shops for Dates
Cafe Alchemist Inc
Cafe Alchemist is known for its expertly crafted coffee drinks and industrial-chic design. With a focus on ethical sourcing and sustainability, this coffee shop offers a range of specialty drinks, including pour-over, espresso, and nitro coffee. Its bright, natural lighting and modern decor make it a great spot for a casual yet stylish coffee date.
Deville Coffee
Deville Coffee is a modern and stylish coffee chain with several locations across Calgary. Offering a wide range of specialty drinks, snacks, and meals, it’s an ideal spot for a date. Deville's relaxed ambiance and excellent coffee make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Analog Coffee
Analog Coffee is a beloved coffee shop with multiple locations around Calgary. Known for their high-quality specialty drinks and cozy, inviting atmosphere, it’s a perfect spot for a relaxed coffee date. The friendly service and delicious coffee make it a popular choice for locals.
I Love You Coffee Shop
Located on 14th Avenue, I Love You Coffee Shop is a hidden gem with a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Serving delicious coffee, tea, and pastries, this is an excellent spot for a low-key date. The well-spaced tables and friendly staff add to the charm of this quiet cafe.
Conclusion
Calgary's coffee scene continues to grow, offering a diverse range of cafes that cater to all tastes and preferences. Whether you’re exploring specialty coffee, looking for a cozy spot to work, or enjoying a coffee date, Calgary's cafes provide a unique and vibrant coffee culture that will not disappoint.
Author
Amélie has a dual Bachelor of Biological Sciences and Literature. She wrote a Master's Thesis on the importance of blending scientific knowledge with the arts to create a healthier culture. She also has a Bachelor of Education and has been teaching Biology and Language Arts since 2016. She is happily addicted to coffee and constantly learning.
