What’s the first thing you think of when we say:
“The only way to start the day,”
“Popular first date idea,”
“Favourite place to study,”
“Best people-watching,”
“Free wifi”?
If you said, “coffee shop,” congratulations, you nailed it! Whether you go for the leisurely atmosphere to chat over a daily drip, or to get that quick fix before your morning commute, coffee shops have been some of our favourite places to visit for almost as long as coffee itself has been the world’s pick-me-up beverage of choice.
The Shipyards District is home to a number of the best coffee shops to visit! Here are just a few of our local favourites:
View this post on Instagram
Located right in the Lonsdale Quay Market, his shop offers an impressive bean selection from each of their handpicked roast masters. But wait, there’s more! They also sell legit coffee gear like grinders, scales, filters and brewers to take home and make all your hipster dreams come true. Photography fan? So is C41, and they even host a monthly photo contest, just in case you feel like showing off some skills.
View this post on Instagram
Not only do these pros roast their own unique blends for your tasting pleasure, but they also get extra points for the view! Treat yourself to a local brew while gazing out at the pier, the ice rink in winter, or the splash park in summer depending on your window of choice.
View this post on Instagram
Ok, maybe Larry’s is more of your friendly, vegetarian grocer than a traditional coffee shop, but they still make our list because of the exceptionally tasty (and health-conscious, we might add) lattes they serve up. Try the Energy Elixir Latte with Matcha Fuel and MCT oil, or the Golden Tumeric Latte for some anti-inflammatory benefits. So thoughtful!
View this post on Instagram
Located inside The Polygon (also well-worth an afternoon visit), Nemesis boasts a rotating selection of coffees at their pourover bar, nitro cold brew on tap, and the “Dope Bakehouse” where you can indulge in foodie brunch delights like Croque Monsieur, a Braised Beef Benny, or one of their to-die-for pastries all baked in-house! Need we say more?
View this post on Instagram
A neighbourhood staple in North Vancouver for over 15 years, Shipyards Coffee is a worthy stop not only for their dreamy brews, but also for a killer croissant sandwich. Try the one with wild sockeye salmon, cream cheese, capers and dill for a mouth-melt you won’t soon forget. This shop also rotates their wall art to highlight the talents of their local artists!
BONUS: Best Hidden Gem. West of Java is easy to miss unless, of course, you’re a local. This long-time, neighbourhood favourite is a small, cozy, family-owned business that promises good, solid java, and excellent cinnamon buns. While there’s really no room to sit and stay for too long, we love them for a friendly fix to-go before taking on the world!
There are so many “perks” to buzz about in The Shipyard’s District, but just in case you needed one more reason to venture out in search of that perfect Cup of Joe, may we suggest you make a day of it too? Stop in to recharge after an e-bike ride around town, or meet a friend to recap an afternoon of gallery-hopping. Studies show that the “coffee shop effect” triggers productive brain signals that enhance mood, broaden perspective, and even promote some inspired decision-making abilities too! We could all use an extra jolt of that, right?
For even more delicious coffee shop suggestions in Lower Lonsdale, be sure to check out The Shipyards District directory.
