+20 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!
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
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The Habit Coffee & Bakeshop
If you love unique coffee shops, you’ll adore Habit Coffee & Bakeshop—it’s set inside a 100-year-old church. Step in through the side door and you’re greeted by four stunning stained-glass windows behind the counter. This is one hidden gem in Thunder Bay you don’t want to miss!
We grabbed coffees and settled into their quirky booth-style seats that look like church pews with curved tabletops. Along with great coffee and tea, they bake all their treats in-house.
Even better, Habit is a non-profit that helps fund Urban Abbey programs, including two 20-bed shelters. So, your coffee and pastry don’t just taste good—they do good.
Address: 308 Red River Rd, Thunder Bay
Da Capo Cafe
If you’re craving a little taste of Europe in Sudbury, head to Da Capo Café. Right in the heart of downtown, it’s run by a lovely Greek couple—and the moment you walk in, you’re greeted with plants, amazing aromas, and a warm welcome. And it’s one of my favourite places to eat in Sudbury for a light meal.
The menu leans into their Greek roots but has plenty of variety: great coffee, sandwiches, smoothies, and seriously good crêpes. But honestly? Go Greek. Grab a spanakopitki for something savoury—flaky, crispy, and filled with spinach and feta. If you want something sweet, the baklava is a must. And don’t forget a Freddo Cappuccino, the perfect Greek iced coffee for a warm day.
Address: 124 Cedar St, Greater Sudbury
The Pink Café
I’m a girl who loves pink, so it’s no surprise that when I discovered there was a café in Ontario that was full of pink, I knew I had a go!
The Pink Café in downtown Cobourg is such a treat! Filled with pink and flowers, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy coffee and treats with your girlfriends.
Beyond the list of fair-trade coffee and tea, the menu features crave-worthy crepes, waffles and baked goods. Plus, if you’re looking for something more than a snack, they also have a few Thai dishes on the menu.
Insider Tip: This is a small café with limited seating, if you are set on dining in, I recommend you make a reservation online.
Address: 205 3rd St #6, Cobourg
Laverne’s Eatery
Right across from Town Hall sits a charming 150-year-old stone building that’s home to one of Gananoque’s best cafés—Laverne’s Eatery. It’s totally my vibe: a quirky, cozy little dining room with mismatched chairs, vintage magazine prints, and plants in the windows. And the patio on a warm summer day? Perfect.
Laverne’s is all about fresh, quality ingredients—seasonal produce, free-range eggs, real butter—and they bake everything in small batches, so it’s always fresh.
This is not your typical café fare. Their weekend brunch will impress anyone, and their sandwiches and salads are next level. My friend swears by the quesadillas, and I’m obsessed with their sweet and savoury Danishes. If you’re after a light, refreshing meal in Gananoque, this is the spot.
Address: 21 King St E, Gananoque
Dark & Deadly Cafe
For all my fellow horror movie buff friends, one of the of the most unique coffee shops in Ontario is Dark & Deadly Café in Carleton Place. This horror-themed café is like hanging out on the set of your favourite scary movies.
With creepy décor, skull-shaped muffins and coffee blends like The Espressocist, a visit to the café is one of the coolest things to do in Carleton Place. But the best part is that the owners and staff are the friendliest!
Address: 1 Costello Dr Unit 5, Carleton Place
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 on Cundles Street.
I recommend the Barrie Black Eye to wake you up and the cheddar and spinach muffin is a must!
Address: 190 Cundles Rd E, 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 that will make you smile then head to Neon Flamingo. This retro café in downtown Newmarket 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 range of take home meals 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 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.
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
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!!!
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