BEST OF OTTAWA 2021: Cafés

After over 20-years of writing about life in Ottawa, we think we have a pretty good idea of the best of what this city has to offer. In this weekly series, we share our picks with you — our top spots for takeout, live music venues, local brews, bands and more. Check, share and discuss #OLMBest every week!

Little Victories Coffee Roasters

801 Bank Street & 44 Elgin Street

The name Little Victories sure does suit this spot because oh, are they ever victorious! Offering both perennial and seasonal brews, you’ll always find something new. Drop by their stunning, new location on Elgin Street–the perfect place to study or do some remote work on a chilly, fall day.
Photo: Yousef M via Google Maps

Oat Couture

1154 Bank Street

You’ve never seen oatmeal like this! Oat Couture is Ottawa’s only cafe dedicated to the classic breakfast meal and it does not disappoint. From flavours like “Campfire” which features a bowl of oatmeal topped with roasted marshmallows, graham crackers, and raspberry coulis to “The Hangover” which features the savoury toppings of aged cheddar, apples, and bacon, you’ll be sure to find a blend you like.
Photo: Oat Couture

Café Cristal

240 Kennevale Drive

If you’re looking for a Parisian getaway without leaving town, Café Cristal is the spot for you. This gem is inspired by the neighbourhood cafés of France and strives to offer not only exquisite baked goods and beverages but a full experience – a place where people can come together to hang out and bond over good conversation. Whether it’s a business meeting or a date, this is an ideal place!
Photo: David P. via Google Maps

The Thirsty Maiden

65 Denzil Doyle Ct., Unit 116

Located in Kanata South, The Thirsty Maiden is a stunning spot with painted brick walls, plush chairs, and wooden floors making it feel very home-y. As for their menu, your choices are endless with various coffee and tea lattes, baked goods, breakfast sandwiches, and more.
Photo: The Thirsty Maiden

Morning Owl

Various locations

Morning Owl is owner Jordan O’Leary’s way of celebrating his family's Abruzzese roots. Using organic and direct trade coffee, this shop offers all types of coffee concoctions, including lactose-free options. Drinks range from flat whites to lattes in a variety of original flavours, such as Nut N' Honey, Peppermint Patty, Nutella, and Snickers.
Photo: Aatik C. via Yelp

Café Morala

734 Bank Street

Looking for South American coffee and treats? Café Morala has all that for you! A longtime, community favourite, we recommend their rich hot chocolate and fresh empanadas!
Photo: Leanne Bulsink via Google Maps

Equator Coffee

Various locations

At Equator Coffee, everything they do is focused on three main pillars: “Fresh Roasting, Fair Trade Purchasing and Organic Certification.” Equator values investment in and commitment to their local and global neighbours and are involved and partnered with various charitable organizations. Their downtown location, at the National Arts Centre, offers a beautiful view of Elgin street through its floor-to-ceiling windows.
Photo: Equator Coffee

The Ministry of Coffee

Various locations

The Ministry of Coffee now brews its own coffee! You can drop by one of their four locations to grab a cup, or to pick up a bag of one of their house blends to brew at home. Their handy website even has a whole section dedicated to coffee equipment recommendations if you’re new to the coffee world!
Photo: James C. via Yelp

Planet Coffee

24A York Street

Tucked away in Clarendon Lanes Courtyard in the ByWard Market, Planet Coffee is a coffee-lovers oasis. The sleek café offers outdoor seating so you can enjoy the beautiful views of the courtyard and take in the fresh air. The coffee is always fresh and all their baked goods are all made on site. We recommend their date squares and seasonal loaf cakes!
Photo: Planet Coffee

Quitters Coffee

1523 Stittsville Main Street

A casual cafe by day and bar by night, Quitters features chic décor, outdoor seating, and quality service. Their coffee menu is constantly changing and they carry various local brands of craft beer and wine. They also serve a fantastic breakfast and lunch.
Photo: Quitters Coffee