If you love discovering a city through its coffee scene, Ottawa has some fantastic spots for you. Here are the top coffee shops in Ottawa where you can enjoy great coffee and a cosy atmosphere.
1. Happy Goat Coffee
Happy Goat Coffee is a favourite among locals and visitors. They roast over 20 different blends of fair-trade coffee. They source their beans from small farmers around the world, including in Asia, Africa, and Latin America. You can enjoy their coffee at one of their café locations or take home a bag of their Brazil Peaberry Dark or Ethiopian Guji espresso.
2. Little Victories Coffee
Run by two coffee lovers, Little Victories Coffee has become a well-known name in Ottawa. They focus on consistent, high-quality coffee. Their original café in the Glebe is a cosy spot, while their new downtown location is in a beautiful historic building. You can enjoy drinks like a flat white or Piccolo while watching the city go by.
3. Ministry of Coffee
Ministry of Coffee is famous for its great coffee from top roasters worldwide. Since opening in 2013, they’ve expanded to several locations in Ottawa and even Qatar. They offer a rotating selection of roasters each week. Try their Nitrogen cold brew or a Mocha and Nutella latte for something special.
4. Arlington Five
Arlington Five is a small but lively coffee house with a big COFFEE sign on Banks St. in downtown Ottawa. The café is bright and welcoming, offering expertly made coffee, fresh juices, and homemade baked goods. It’s a great place to enjoy local art and a delicious drink.
5. Morning Owl Coffee House
Morning Owl Coffee has been serving organic, direct-trade coffee since 2009. With six locations across Ottawa, it’s a popular choice for coffee lovers. They offer a variety of drinks, including unique options like matcha green tea and turmeric lattes. You can also find tasty breakfast sandwiches, salads, and baked goods.
6. Planet Coffee
Located in the quiet Clarendon Lanes courtyard in ByWard Market, Planet Coffee is a beloved spot. They use beans from Fluid Coffee Roasters, who roast their coffee using solar power. Enjoy a coffee on their outdoor patio, perfect for people-watching during warmer months.
7. Equator Coffee
Just outside Ottawa in Almonte, Equator Coffee is known for its successful roasting operation. They’ve been working with small-scale farmers since 1998. Their fair-trade and organic coffees are available at their cafés and in popular local restaurants. Try their mocha on the rocks or a chilly chai latte.
8. Black Squirrel Books and Espresso Bar
If you love books and coffee, Black Squirrel Books and Espresso Bar is the perfect spot. Located in downtown Ottawa, this independent bookstore offers great coffee and a curated collection of new and used books. Enjoy a matcha latte or hot chocolate while browsing through their shelves.
9. Beandigen Café
Beandigen Café is a unique spot in Lansdowne Place, owned and operated by the Anishinaabe people. Enjoy their Ondarez coffee and homemade Bannock, and browse Indigenous-made products in the café shop. It’s a great place to experience local culture and delicious coffee.
10. Art-Is-In-Bakery
Art-Is-In Bakery is known for its delicious pastries and coffee. This family-owned bakery also serves great coffee, including its famous Kronuts. Enjoy a latte or hot chocolate while savouring their fresh-baked goods or a hearty brunch.
11. Drip House
Drip House has three cool locations in Hintonburg, Chinatown, and Mechanicsville. They combine art, coffee, and food, featuring rotating exhibits by local artists. Try their speciality coffee like the Swiss truffle latte or matcha latte, and enjoy their menu of avocado toasts, sandwiches, and international fare.
12. Art House Café
Art House Café combines a gallery and coffee shop. They showcase over a hundred local artists and serve coffee from Happy Goat Coffee. Enjoy their teas and a variety of dishes including soups, salads, and sandwiches.
13. Figaro Coffee House
Figaro Coffee House is sleek and modern, with two locations in Ottawa. They roast high-quality Arabica beans daily and offer speciality drinks like café con miel and iced watermelon matchas. Their menu includes fresh pastries, sandwiches, and more.
Whether you’re looking for a quick caffeine fix or a cozy place to relax, Ottawa’s coffee shops have something for everyone. Enjoy exploring these top spots and savouring the rich flavours and unique atmospheres each one offers.
