Places to sip a cup of java in Ottawa’s Westboro
Coffee always tastes better in a great atmosphere. Whether you like your caffeine iced or steaming hot, with milk or without, sweet and creamy or slightly bitter, these Westboro cafés and coffee shops have fantastic ambiance and delicious brews waiting for you.
Equator Coffee Roasters
451 Ottawa St RR 4, Almonte, ON K0A 1A0Rural chic, from the nearby hamlet of Almonte, has invaded Westboro. This is a great place for hatching schemes and revolutionary ideas, while expanding the mind. Many things here will inspire you, including French-language magazines, cool music and Affogato ice cream surprise. And, did I mention the flat bottom filtered coffee? Plus, each week this spot roasts its own coffee to order, resulting in a brew that always tastes fresh.
Pietro's Corner
300 Richmond Rd, Ottawa, ON K1Z 6X6This café, a new kid on the block, serves pasta made from scratch, Panini, crêpes, desserts and espresso. It opened in the spring of 2015, much to the delight of Westboro residents. It has the feel of a very chic Italian café, making it the perfect spot to sip an espresso while enjoying some tiramisu or cannoli. Plus, the staff is helpful and knowledgeable.
Bridgehead
362 Richmond Rd, Ottawa, ON K2A 0E8What’s not to like at Ottawa’s original fair trade, organic, independent coffee shop? Whether you prefer espresso or decaf, they have it – and everything in between. Go for the experience of rubbing shoulders with locals - this is where Ottawans chill out. And, there are two other locations right on Richmond Road.
The Capcake Lounge
324 Richmond Rd, Ottawa, ON K1Z 6X6As if we needed more proof that Westboro attracts the coolest cafés like flies to butter - fresh cupcakes abound at this spiffy Byward-Market-style Café. Be warned, there is no air conditioning, but the fabulously fresh-baked goods make up for it. I mean, who doesn’t like a cupcake with their coffee? The menu changes daily but Oreo, red velvet, chocolate, vanilla and maple cinnamon cupcakes are always available. Bonus: They also sell gluten-free cupcakes in a variety of flavours.
Swiss Pastries
205 Richmond Rd, Ottawa, ON K1Z 6W4I never eat dessert after a meal, but what’s wrong with a fresh Swiss/French cake with your cup of joe? They bake everything from buttercream cakes to cheesecakes, not to mention croissants, cookies, pies, tarts and other sweet treats. Service en français, nonetheless! They serve mochaccinos, cappuccinos and lattes and, don’t forget Fresh Pretzel Thursday!
Thyme And Again Creative Catering And Take Home Food Inc
1255 Wellington St W, Ottawa, ON K1Y 3A6Founded as a catering company, Thyme and Again makes a lovely bowl of café au lait, served with or without a savoury treat. Their cakes are out of this world, so they will definitely make a great addition to your coffee. The shop has been in the neighbourhood since before Westboro became trendy. The crowd is made up of all ages, studiously contemplating their gadgets or in a group planning their next shopping trip.
Village Cafe
295 Richmond Rd, Ottawa, ON K1Z 6X3The Village Café was a pioneer in Westboro, here before the area’s current surge in popularity. They serve up cappuccinos, lattes and espressos in a carefree environment. It’s a great place to feel the Westboro vibe, and to enjoy a coffee, but it is also fantastic for a quiet and relaxed lunch or a health conscious supper retreat. Plus, coffee refills are free with their legendary Sunday brunch.
