Your Guide to Coffee in Victoria: Our 13 Favourite Cafes
Imagine this, you’re wandering around downtown Victoria and you’re thinking “I wonder what’s the best spot for a coffee downtown?“, we’ve all been there!
Luckily for you Victoria has some amazing coffee shops!
Coffee shops and cafes aren’t just for grabbing a drip coffee to-go. They are first date spots, office spots, study spots, meeting spots… they’re a third place. And ambiance is just as important as the quality of the beans that are going into the coffee.
At Forged Axe Throwing, we have tons of coffee shops close by so getting a quality cup is easy! Here’s some of our favourites that will give you a taste of the coffee culture in BC’s capital city.
Whether you’re more into a hot cup of coffee, or a steamy cup of tea, these are some of our top spots.
1. Bean Around The World
Easily one of the best coffee spots in the city is Bean Around the World at 533 Fisgard St in Chinatown. The coffee is hot, the baked good are fresh, and the staff are always smiling. Seating is TIGHT in this cafe but it does create a cool ambiance with the lower ceiling and seating tucked against the back wall.
#2. Habit Pandora
This is one of my personal favourite (James here!), Habit is right across the street from our shop, boasts a ton of free reading material like Monocle Magazine, and Dwell, and has great table options for laptop work. The vibe is very minimalist in Habit but that’s part of the fun, the walls are often adorned with local artists paintings and it creates a very inspiring workspace.
And of course I have to mention the quality of the espresso! Some of the most flavourful beans in Victoria. If you’re looking for a work/study spot, give Habit on Pandora a try.
@forkingawesomevia If you’re looking for cute coffee shops in Victoria, BC, these three in Downtown are worth checking out! ☕️☕️☕️ #forkingawesome #victoriabc #coffeeshops
#3. Hey Happy
The first time I ever tried an Aeropress (shoutout to Tiny, a Victoria company that owns Aeropress) coffee was from Hey Happy on lower Johnson. The baristas at Hey Happy are some of the most experimental out there so there’s always a selection of scales, kettles, pour-overs and other brewing kit behind the bar. They always have different speciality coffees on and it’s absolutely delicious.
Their seating is done in a rather unique way to, all built in which makes it feel more like a booth than a table. They recently put a park-let out front which opens up even more seating options if you’re feeling like enjoying your coffee outside. Along with coffee/tea they also serve cold kombuchas.
#4. Discovery Coffee (Blanshard)
The interior of Discovery Coffee always reminds me of an Italian Espresso bar in a much larger city than Victoria. They have a circular bar in the middle of the shop with a very fancy espresso machine. Their drinks are always made very well and they always serve espresso with a glass of carbonated water which is a really nice touch.
Seating can be limited at this location (lots of offices nearby) so do a scan before you order your drink if you’re looking for a spot to work.
Discovery Coffee also sells a lot of doughnuts… but more on that later.
#5. Union Pacific Coffee
I love Union Pacific but this is not a spot for a late afternoon coffee, I can’t count how many times I’ve tried to visit but it’s closed for the evening.
However their coffee is delicious and their seating is very generous! Union Pacific has large bay doors that open up in the summer so you will get tons of airflow and natural light inside which is a nice change from a lot of more “cozy” setups.
The brick walls and industrial style piping make the interior very aesthetically pleasing for a meeting or a morning work session on the laptop. UP is conveniently located on Herald st on the northern edge of downtown.
#6. Rise and Grind Cafe
If your in the market for a breakfast sandwich then Rise and Grind is for you! The cafe is cozy but the breakfast sandwhiches SLAP. There’s always a rotating specials list and if you are looking for a greasy delicious start to your day, do not miss this gem!
Coffee is basic but delicious!
#7. 109 Coffee Roasting Studio
The interior of 109 Roasting
109 Coffee Roasting Studio is the spot for coffee purists in Victoria, where the art of coffee roasting is on full display in an open, inviting space.
This cafe boasts a rustic yet modern vibe, with exposed brick walls and the rich aroma of coffee beans in the air. The staff here are not just baristas but craftsmen, taking visitors on a journey from bean to brew. Their coffee menu is a curated selection of single-origin beans, each with a unique story.
It’s the perfect spot for those who appreciate the finer details of coffee making. Cupping is a thing!
#8. Discovery Coffee on Discovery St.
Discovery Coffee on Discovery St (The original!) offers a vibrant, trendy setting that captures the essence of Victoria’s urban coffee culture. It’s in a more industrial part of town which gives it a different feel even as you walk into the door.
This location stands out with its high ceilings and large windows that flood the space with natural light, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
The baristas are skilled and passionate, often experimenting with new blends and brewing methods. It’s a popular spot among locals for its consistently high-quality coffee and the small, thoughtful touches like serving sparkling water with espresso. The communal tables and cozy nooks make it ideal for both quick visits and longer, leisurely stays.
Try to get one of their fresh doughnuts from the bakery next door, you will not be disappointed!
#9. Duo Cafe and Bakery
Duo Cafe and Bakery combines the art of fine coffee with freshly baked goods.
This quaint cafe features a charming interior with vintage decor and an inviting, homely atmosphere. It’s renowned for its exceptional pastries and desserts, all made in-house, which perfectly complement their expertly crafted coffee.
The friendly staff and the combination of great food and excellent coffee create a chill, relaxed experience. Whether you’re starting your morning or in need of an afternoon pick-me-up, Duo Cafe provides both comfort and quality in the heart of Victoria.
#10. Picnic Too
Picnic Too is an extension of its beloved predecessor (Picnic), offering a cozy retreat in the centre of town.
This cafe is famed for its artisanal approach, serving not only top-notch coffee but also a selection of gourmet sandwiches and salads made from locally-sourced ingredients.
The interior is a blend of modern chic and rustic charm, with plenty of plants and natural wood accents that create a serene, inviting space.
Perfect for a casual meeting or a quiet reading hour, Picnic Too makes every visit feel like a small, delightful escape from the everyday hustle.
Bonus points for the picnic table seating.
#11. Saint Cecilia Coffee & Brands
Saint Cecilia Coffee & Brands caters to the sophisticated palate, offering exceptional coffee, vintage finds, and unique apparel.
This eclectic coffee shop boasts an interior that reflects a deep appreciation for the arts, with local artwork hanging from the walls and vintage records playing in the background.
Each cup of coffee is crafted with care, using only the finest beans. The shop also hosts regular events, making it a cultural hub for creative minds and coffee enthusiasts alike. It’s a place where coffee meets culture, nestled in the vibrant heart of Victoria.
#12. Discovery Coffee (James Bay)
Discovery Coffee in James Bay is a cornerstone for the community, offering a friendly, laid-back atmosphere where everyone feels welcome. I thought we’d throw a neighbourhood cafe in here, although it’s still Discovery, the scene is much different.
This location features a more intimate setting compared to its other branches, with a focus on creating a comfortable space for families and friends to gather. The coffee is consistently excellent, with a variety of single-origin and blended options available.
The knowledgeable staff are always ready to share their passion for coffee, making every visit educational and enjoyable. It’s the perfect local spot to unwind and savor a well-brewed cup of coffee.
Did I mention doughnuts from Yonnis bakery?
Fresh doughnuts from Yonnis bakery are served daily at all Discovery Coffee locations.
#13. Caffe Fantastico
Caffe Fantastico is a true aficionado’s choice! Known for its dedication to the craft of coffee.
This spacious cafe features an industrial aesthetic with a touch of elegance, where the brewing of coffee is treated as both an art and a science.
The baristas, well-versed in their trade, are eager to discuss the nuances of their diverse coffee offerings. The cafe also serves a variety of local beers and wines, making it a versatile spot for any time of day.
They also sell a selection of fancy Italian espresso gear if you’re looking to start brewing at home.
Hot tip: Get the breakfast sandwhich and add bacon, you do not want to miss this!
With its vibrant atmosphere and commitment to quality, Caffe Fantastico is a cornerstone of Victoria’s coffee scene.
So there you have it! No matter what sort of mood you’re in or what kind of coffee experience you’re looking for this should give you a solid start.
This is not an exhaustive list! There were lots of other cafes in Victoria that are amazing but we’ve tried to focus on downtown for this post. Let me know of your favourites that we should include in our next post!
Enjoying some coffee pre-throwing