+15 Best Coffee Shops in Ontario to Perk You Up

I’m all hopped up on a Chloe from a local coffee shop, three shots of espresso, local maple syrup, and steamed oat milk. And I thought, what are the best coffee shops in Ontario? As a coffee-nut, or should I say, coffee-bean, I’ve been to my fair share of cafes. In fact, wherever I travel to, whether it’s a big city or small town along the back roads, I seek out local coffee shops.

I love the charm and quirkiness that small coffee shops exude. You can’t help but perk up when you open those doors and are met with the rich aroma of coffee brewing. Some seek out Instagram worthy cafes while others need the caffeine fix and a spot to work with free Wi-Fi. No matter why you’ll love my top picks for the best Ontario cafés!

15 Ontario Coffee Shops to Add to Your Bean Counter

Balzac’s

Balzac’s roots are in Stratford, Ontario, but the chain has spread across Ontario with multiple locations in Toronto. The creator, Diana Olsen, was inspired by the grand cafés of Paris, as well as Honoré de Balzac. Balzac was a French novelist who had a fondness for coffee.

They’ve been offering Fair Trade Organic coffee, sugar and cocoa since nearly the beginning, over 20 years ago, and also use organic and locally sourced milk. I love their original Stratford location with its beautifully tiled floor, crisp white detailed walls and ceiling, and fun posters that play off each destination.

I recommend trying their Atwood Blend, this bird-friendly coffee helps support the Pelee Island Bird Observatory.

Address: 149 Ontario St. Stratford, Ontario

Related Post: Order Up – Best Montreal Cafes

Shabby Motley Handcraft

What do you get when you cross a café with a yarn shop? You get Shabby Motley Handcraft. Located in Sault Ste. Marie’s downtown is a gem of an Ontario coffee shop. Rustic wooden tables, vintage cozy chesterfields and the air of wool fill this creative café. Sit and enjoy a coffee while knitting, reading, or writing. They also offer workshops on all sorts of crafting.

I recommend the Shabby Latte or Bullet Proof Coffee and one of their dishes soups will fill you with joy in the cooler months.

Address: 356 Queen St. E Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario

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Copper Bean Café

If you’re heading up north along the Trans-Canada Highway you must stop at Copper Bean Café in Bruce Mines along the north shores of Lake Huron. This charming café will make you feel right at home with its shabby-chic vibe and makes a great day trip from Sault Ste. Marie. Pillows that might have been at your grandparent’s cottage growing up lines the bench seats, the metal sheeting from an old sugar shack fits perfectly along the one wall, and quirky knick-knacks dot the interior.

I recommend a straight coffee, that’s from a Sudbury roaster, or if you’re looking for something different try their white chocolate popcorn latte.

Address: 9196 Highway 17 Bruce Mines, Ontario

Related Post: Must Stops on a Northwestern Ontario Road Trip

Lazy Tulip Café

One of my favourite local cafes in Barrie is Lazy Tulip. This once small café has now blossomed into a larger and flourishing haunt for Barrie’s creatives and hippies alike. The Lazy Tulip has a funky and eclectic vibe with art from local artists and thrift store furnishings.

They serve organic, fair-trade coffee from a small micro-roaster in Guelph. And their menu centers on fresh local ingredients as well as vegetarian and vegan-friendly options. And after a few moves, the Lazy Tulip Cafes is now located in the MacLaren Centre in downtown Barrie.

I recommend the Barrie Black Eye to wake you up and the cheddar and spinach muffin is a must!

Address: 37 Mulcaster St, Barrie

Dineen Coffee Co.

One of the best coffee shops in Toronto is Dineen Coffee. While they have multiple locations now around the city my favourite location is the Yonge Street one. Set in a historic building, you’ll be transported back in time. The building was built in 1897 and named Dineen Building, it is one of the oldest structures in Toronto and was the home to W. and F. Dineen Co, who made fur clothing.

I recommend trying their signature Temperance Espresso Blend. It’s a mix of Mexican and Brazilian beans that offer a smooth taste with hints of citrus.

Address: 140 Yonge St. Toronto

Neon Flamingo Java & Ice Bar

If you’re looking for a loud and proud coffee shop in Ontario that will make you smile then head to Neon Flamingo. This retro café is on point with its black Formica countertop, old movie star prints, and neon signage. But I love the pops of neon green and quirky hot pink flamingos that dot the space. The café is also part of a store, Haven Eclectic Modern Style, which sells a mix of new and vintage pieces as well as collectible first edition signed books.

Address: 474 Botsford St. Newmarket

The Bank Café

While exploring one of Ontario’s most charming small towns, Creemore, you should pop into the Bank Café. The café is located in the historic Toronto Bank building dating back to 1896 that has been expertly converted into a lovely café. They offer a delicious brunch menu with locally sourced goods and an array of local products like honey and ginger tonic.

I recommend grabbing a slice of their carrot cake with your coffee. It’s known as the best EVER!

Address: 179 Mill St. Creemore

The Bicycle Café

Blink and you might miss the small town of Flesherton. But if you’re chasing waterfalls in Grey County The Bicycle Café is the perfect spot to pop in for a warm meal and coffee. Your senses will delight in the quirky furnishings, from their exposed brick walls to the array of framed art and large maps that pop against the rich blue walls and stark white ceiling. There’s a cool and hometown vibe here that encourages conversation.

TIP: Dates and times for opening can change so call ahead.

Address: 14 Sydenham St. Flesherton

The Lost & Found Café

Looking to get swept away into the pages of Alice & Wonderland? Then head to the picturesque small town of Elora, Ontario to visit The Lost & Found Café. Art and wallpaper wrap the walls, along with oversized picture frames bordering the menu, and up a wooden staircase you’ll find a pint-sized space with a welcoming couch, and eclectic pieces to pique your wonder. They offer locally sourced light meals like soups, sandwiches, tasty treats, and their “badass breakfast”.

I recommend the Chai Charger and a tweety bar to energize your day.

Address: 45 W Mill St. Elora

Café Cancan

It’s pretty in pink and will have you feeling like you’re the star of Breakfast at Tiffany’s. With pastel pink walls, Tiffany blue banquet seating, dashes of bright colours, cute details, and florals, it is one of the prettiest Toronto coffee shops. Café Cancan is a French bistro with delicious French-inspired food. It’s a great place to grab brunch with your girlfriends, take your date out for drinks, or grab a coffee.

I recommend the cortado, it’s one of the best in Toronto!

TIP: If you’re planning to visit on the weekend and don’t want to sit at the bar consider making a reservation.

Address: 89 Harbord St. Toronto

Beacon Bike + Brew

For those planning a road trip to Prince Edward County, you’ll find plenty of adorable cafes! One of my favourites is the Beacon Bike & Brew in Picton!

This adorable café is both a coffee and bike shop. As soon as you step in, you’ll find penny tile flooring reading County Up! Plus, you’ll be met with the most welcoming staff!

Beacon Bike & Brew serves coffee roasters from across Ontario as well as Montreal! At the counter, you’ll find a variety of baked items and light fare available. The menu also includes smoothies, beer and more!

I highly recommend ordering one of their Americano Misto. For those who don’t know what it is, it’s a blend of an Americano and a latte. Plus, if you’re hungry, you’ve got to try one of their amazing bagels!

Address: 188 Picton Main St, Picton, ON K0K 2T0

Starving Artist Waffles & Espresso

Markham Ontario is a hotspot for awesome coffee shops and fun food stops! One of my favourite coffee shops in the city is Starving Artist!

Starving Artist is a fun place for fueling your caffeine fix as well as hunger! Dubbed an espresso bar, they offer a variety of hot and cold coffee drinks. If you’re looking for a full caffeine fix then go for their double Americano. I love their chai latte!

Along with coffee drinks, milkshakes, smoothies and alcoholic drinks you’ll find a tasty menu. Everything at Starving Artist is served on waffles! Their waffles of the perfect blend of crispy and fluffy.

Staying true to their name, the café is filled with artwork from local artists. So, whether you’re looking for a great coffee shop or somewhere to get your creative juices flowing, Starving Artist has you covered!

Address: 5762 Hwy 7 Unit 3, Markham, ON L3P 1A7

Tin Roof Cafe

I’m a big fan of cozy small town cafes! And one of the best coffee shops in Ontario is Tin Roof Café.

This adorable café is located in the small town of Erin. Inside you’ll find pure Nordic vibes with its cream and natural accents. Their signature teal can be found in pops throughout too, like in their front door and take out coffee cups. There’s seating in the loft, and even a cute little fireplace!

Tin Roof Café is great for coffee and food too! It’s an ideal spot to go for breakfast in town. Plus, they serve a selection of light fare and baked goods. Many of which are vegan friendly!

I also recommend visiting during the holidays to try one of their fun festive drinks! My favourite is their gingerbread latte!

Address: 4 Main St, Erin, ON N0B 1T0

Grounded Coffee Company

In downtown Midland, near the harbour is the area’s best coffee shop! If you’re looking for a great cup of coffee then head to Grounded!

Grounded Coffee roasts their coffee on site and sells an array of local produce too. This is one of the most inclusive and welcoming coffee shops in Ontario! There’s even a rainbow crosswalk out front! Along with a range of coffee beverages, they sell some of the best baked goods in Simcoe County!

I love the scones from Grounded. However, they always have fun pop up menu items for holidays, special occasions and the like. Some even come in kits to finish making at home, which is a big plus for families with littles!

Address: 538 Bay St, Midland, ON L4R 1L3

The Bridge Social

Along the main street in Uxbridge is another of the best Ontario coffee shops! The Bridge Social is a fusion of café and grocery. And they’re all about promoting sustainable, organic, and local!

Inside you’ll find a welcoming space that’s filled with grocery items, tasty baked goods, and other local products. Many of the items are made right in Uxbridge or in Canada. There’s everything from body care items to teas. Plus, there’s also an entrance into the bookstore next door!

Depending on events or products, there’s usually a cozy little spot to sit and enjoy your coffee by the front window. Or you can sit on one of their outdoor picnic tables.

One of the coolest things about the Bridge Social is that they serve their drinks in mason jars. This is sustainability genius! Once you’ve finished your drink you can return it or if you take it to go, bring it back on your next visit!

They have a wide assortment of cool coffee drinks. There’s classics like straight up coffee or an Americano. Plus, they have some interesting lattes like Chaga Elixir and the Cacao Honey.

Address: 64 Brock St W, Uxbridge, ON L9P 1P4

Other Notable Ontario Coffee Shops to Visit

Good Grief Coffee Roasters – In the adorable small town of Thornbury, just outside Collingwood, is an equally adorable coffee shop. Good Grief Coffee Roasters serves a selection of tasty pastries made in house that pair perfectly with one of their coffees.

Higher Ground Café – A popular spot in Caledon for cyclers is Higher Ground Café. They offer a number of fabulous coffee drinks, light fare, and delicious energy bites! Plus, it’s a great stop after hiking Belfountain Conservation Area.

Mochaberry Coffee – In downtown Orangeville you’ll find Mochaberry Coffee. This cozy café is a wonderful place to visit for incredible seasonal offerings. I love their goodies and drinks for maple syrup season in Ontario!

Happy Goat Coffee – Fuel your Ottawa road trip with a brew from Happy Goat Coffee! This coffee shop is so beloved that they now have multiple locations across the city. Inside you’ll find a mix of fabulous drinks and sweet treats. I recommend their cherry blossom lattes!

Red Lantern Coffee Co. – In the southernmost town in Canada, Kingsville, you’ll find another cozy café! Red Lantern Coffee serves up great coffee and delectable baked goods. Plus, it’s filled with plants, fun local merch and is a must stop in town

Stay tuned for more incredible coffee shops in Ontario!!!

Do you have any favourite coffee shops in Ontario? Let me know in the comments below!

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