New West coffee shops that will make you feel at home

One of the things I first struggled with when I came to New West five years ago was loneliness. The easiest and most immediate way for me to combat that was visiting coffee shops. Aside from the food and friendly service, these shops often have bulletin boards that will tell you about what’s happening in the city.

New West coffee shops know how to slow down and make you feel like you’re visiting family. I’ve left these shops feeling so much better emotionally and mentally—and definitely less hungry, or in need of caffeine.

Coming Home Coffee House

Why stop at one of Grandma's amazing coffees, lattes or espressos? The creamy, comforting macaroni and cheese is to die for, and the gooey grilled cheese is a fan favourite. Heck, you can get the mac and cheese in the grilled cheese sandwich! The Kick Ass Benny will satisfy every sense—it’s called the Kick Ass Benny for a reason. The portions in the Kick Ass Benny are generous, so if you time it right, this could serve as your breakfast and lunch.

Desserts from Le Chalet will take care of that sweet tooth: don’t leave without trying a mousse cake.

If you like watching a little TV while enjoying your meal, this is also a great spot to take in episodes of RuPaul’s Drag Race.

Craft Cafe

Situated on the water at Quayside, this spot serves up morning—or afternoon—brews and views! While you’re waiting for your drink to be made, check out the selection of teapots, pour-over supplies and French presses. There’s ample seating inside, and you’ll find the patio packed with guests in the summer.

I love keeping things simple but decadent at Craft Cafe, and always end up ordering a mocha here. There are two kinds you need to try: the one served with Thomas Haas chocolate, and—if you need a morning or midday kick—give the Mexican mocha a go.

Also, I can’t recommend the seafood and lobster sandwich enough.

Hive Cafe

I like to come here for a strong Spanish latte, and sometimes you can catch me working on the newsletter here. (Come say hi!)

There are always new desserts in the window, and the first time I visited I was pleasantly surprised to see melonpan, a Japanese snack. Melonpan is a sweet bun; it is the most heavenly combination of bread and cookie you’ll ever try, with the sweet bread covered in a layer of cookie dough. The splitting of the cookie dough over the bread reminds me of a turtle’s shell! It’s not too sweet and it’s a snack you can enjoy with coffee or tea, or on its own.

You can also find delicious croissants, gooey cookies, pain au chocolat, and cinnamon buns. The displays change almost daily, so it’s best to see what they’re serving via Instagram.

Kamini’s Corner Cafe

Save some time for this one, as it really is a fresh, homemade experience. I like to come here before or after walking along 12th Street for groceries, if the hours line up.

Breakfast can be as simple, light and satisfying as a veggie omelette (I don’t usually like sundried tomatoes in my omelette, but this place changed my mind!). I’ve ordered the tuna melt multiple times closer to lunch: it’s got that refreshing tuna salad taste to it, but the gooey cheese really hits that comfort food spot. Their blueberry muffins are so soft and aromatic that I eat them as slowly as possible in an effort to really enjoy the experience. I aspire to one day be able to bake such a soft, scrumptious treat.

I’m still hoping to try some of their desserts, including the lemon coconut cake and the double chocolate cake.

Meal hack: they also sell frozen soups and entrees, from tomato soup to butter chicken, and even gluten-free New York cheesecake. Some dishes require ordering in advance.

What are your favourite coffee spots in the city? Drop us a line at [email protected] and let us know!