staffWriterI remember the time I was half asleep and stumbling through Byward Market, desperately in need of coffee to jumpstart my day due to a hangover. Just imagine me, you know, wandering around until I discovered a spot with the best latte I’ve ever had.
Since then, I’ve made it my mission to find all the best spots to get that perfect cup of Joe, and Byward Market never disappoints. And now that you’re looking for some too, you better get ready.
I’ve listed down all the top coffee shops in and near the Byward Market that you’ll surely love going to every morning. Read on!
Bridgehead
– Media credit: bridgeheadcoffee
Address: 224 Dalhousie St.
Contact details: +1 613 562 9996
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 6:30 AM to 6 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 7 AM to 5 PM
Cost: $
Bridgehead has a wide selection of fair-trade, organic options, which means your cup isn’t just tasty—it’s ethically sourced. Whether you’re in the mood for an espresso, cappuccino, or a cold brew, this place pretty much covers all your caffeine needs.
But it’s not just about the coffee here since they offer a variety of food options too. From muffins and croissants to loaf slices and cookies, you won’t be left hungry.
They also have a pretty good selection of vegan and gluten-free options, which is always a plus. If you’re not into coffee, they have an impressive array of teas and even some interesting cold drinks.
| Pro tip: Don’t forget to check out Bridgehead’s website. You can buy online their specialty coffee beans, teas, and even some top-notch brewing tools to bring the café experience home. Make sure to avail their reward card if you’re planning to make this a regular spot—it’s a great way to snag some free drinks down the line. |
Oh So Good
– Media credit: ohsogooddesserts
Address: 54 Byward Market Square
Contact details: +1 613 241 8028
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 10 AM to 11 PM
- Friday – 10 AM to 12 AM
- Saturday – 8 AM to 12 AM
Cost: $$
Oh So Good is known for its cakes and desserts, so if you have a sweet tooth, you’re in for a treat. Yes, they serve coffee, and yes, it’s really good, but their dessert menu is the real star here.
Anything from classic chocolate cake and pecan pie to more flavourful ones like white chocolate truffle and dulce de leche can be found on their menu. Their drink menu is no slouch either.
Whether you’re looking for an espresso-based drink, a flavoured latte, or even a hot chocolate, they’ve got it. They’re conveniently located right in the heart of the market, making it an easy stop as you explore the area.
| Pro tip: If you’re planning to grab a dessert to-go, call ahead. Some of their cake slices are so popular, they can sell out quickly! |
Planet Coffee
– Media credit: natsbreadco
Address: 24a York St.
Contact details: +1 613 789 6261
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 7:30 AM to 7 PM
Cost: $$
Planet Coffee is a fantastic spot if you’re looking for really solid coffee and a laid-back vibe. They’re tucked away enough that it feels like a bit of a secret, but once you find it, you’ll be glad you did.
The coffee menu covers all the basics—think espresso, lattes, cappuccinos, and more. In addition to their excellent coffee, they’ve got some pretty great food options like freshly made sandwiches and pastries.
They use high-quality ingredients, so everything tastes fresh and delicious. They’ve also got a good selection of teas if you’re not in the mood for coffee.
| Pro tip: They have a cosy patio that’s perfect for people-watching on warmer days, so grab a seat outside if you can. |
Luxe Blooms Flower Cafe
– Media credit: luxe.blooms
Address: 254 Dalhousie St.
Contact details: +1 613 244 0888
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday, Sunday – 10 AM to 6 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 10 AM to 9 PM
Cost: $$$
Luxe Blooms Flower Cafe is one of those unique spots that combines two of life’s little joys: flowers and coffee. What sets them apart is their eye-catching flower arrangements adorning the cafe, and yes, they sell these gorgeous flowers too.
The coffee menu is robust, featuring everything from classic espresso drinks to trendy matcha lattes. Their menu also includes a tasty assortment of pastries, croffles, salads, and sandwiches.
They even cater to a variety of dietary preferences, offering gluten-free, vegan, and low-sugar options. By the way, if you want something different other than coffee, you can also check out their list of cocktails, mocktails, and even chocolate drinks.
| Pro tip: If you’ve fallen head-over-heels for Luxe Blooms’ floral magic, you’ll be thrilled to know that they offer flower services that can cater to any special event. |
Byward Café
– Media credit: dineyums
Address: 55 Byward Market Square
Contact details: +1 613 241 2555
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 7 AM to 10 PM
Cost: $$
Menu – N/A
Byward Café has got you covered with a variety of choices, whether you’re into a strong espresso, a soothing tea, or something decaf. Their menu also includes a bunch of tasty pastries and light bites that pair perfectly with your drink. ‘
But wait, you can’t just grab a coffee and leave; they’ve got a decent selection of sandwiches and salads if you’re feeling peckish.
What’s really cool is that they cater to all kinds of dietary preferences, whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or want something gluten-free.
| Pro tip: If you’re in a rush, they offer takeout options to make your life easier. Just swing by, grab your favourite treat, and you’re good to go. Also, if you’re a fan of freshly baked goods, try to visit in the morning when the pastries are just out of the oven. They often run out by late afternoon, and trust me, you don’t want to miss out on those. |
Opulence Coffee
– Media credit: apieceofkaleigh
Address: 261 Dalhousie St.
Contact details: +1 613 301 6760
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 4 PM
Cost: $
Opulence Coffee is a must-visit for any coffee aficionado looking for that perfect cup. This spot focuses primarily on delivering exquisite coffee and offering a fantastic selection of coffee beans for those who love to brew at home.
They don’t offer any bites or pastries, so it’s all about the coffee experience here.
Whether you’re grabbing a quick espresso to kickstart your day or buying a bag of their premium beans to enjoy over the week, Opulence Coffee is dedicated to making sure every cup is a treat.
| Pro tip: Their signature coffee beans tend to sell out quickly, especially on weekends. Get there early if you want to snag the really good stuff to try at home. |
Cafe Deluxe
– Media credit: cafe.deluxe.ottawa
Address: 200 Kent St.
Contact details: +1 613 563 7271
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 7 AM to 3 PM
- Friday – 7 AM to 2 PM
Cost: $
Cafe Deluxe got a killer selection of lunch items, from fresh salads and hearty sandwiches to soul-warming soups. If you’re in a rush, their grab-and-go foods are perfect for a quick bite, but don’t overlook their baked cookies.
Seriously, these cookies are the perfect pair to their freshly brewed coffees. And trust me, the coffee is something you can’t miss, be it a regular drip or a specialty latte, americano, or cappuccino.
| Pro tip: Apart from being a solid choice for lunch, Cafe Deluxe has this super convenient edge: they do catering. So, if you’re planning any special event and need food that impresses, make sure to inquire with them well in advance. |
HeadQuarters, ByWard Market
– Media credit: hqottawa
Address: 115 Clarence St.
Contact details: +1 613 695 4747
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Friday – 10 AM to 5 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 9 AM to 5 PM
Cost: $$
HeadQuarters is a bit of a hidden gem you might stumble upon if you’re lucky. This isn’t just a place for coffee since they also have an on-site hair salon.
Going back to their coffee, they do feature all the classics and a couple of unique brews you won’t find elsewhere. Aside from their stellar coffee, they offer some light meals like sandwiches, avocado toast, fried chicken, croffles, and more.
We’re talking gourmet sandwiches, salads, and even some sweet treats that can set your day right. Plus, if you’re into fresh juices, an iced tea or even cocktails, they’ve got those covered too.
| Pro tip: If you’re looking for a quieter spot to work or study, weekdays are generally less crowded. You might even snag their comfy seating and make a day out of it! |
Happy Goat Coffee Co. (Rideau/Cumberland)
– Media credit: happygoatcoffee
Address: 229 Rideau St.
Contact details: +1 613 680 2880
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 8 AM to 5 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 9 AM to 3 PM
Cost: $$
At Happy Goat, the first thing you’ll want to know is they roast their own beans, which guarantees you fresh and aromatic coffee. From drip coffee to espressos, they’ve got all the classics covered, with their cold brew being particularly stellar.
Their menu doesn’t stop at coffee since they’ve also got a modest selection of pastries, breakfast sandwiches, and salad. One thing you’ll appreciate about Happy Goat is their commitment to sustainability.
They use compostable cups and support fair-trade coffee farmers. Moreover, you’ll often find students and professionals here, especially since they offer free internet.
| Pro tip: If you’re in a rush, use their mobile app to order ahead and skip the line. Trust me, it saves a ton of time during the morning rush! |
La Catrina Churros + Café Bar
– Media credit: catrinachurros
Address: 105B Clarence St.
Contact details: +1 613 421 9910
Operating hours:
- Tuesday – 4 PM to 9:30 PM
- Wednesday and Thursday – 4 PM to 10 PM
- Friday – 4 PM to 11:30 PM
- Saturday – 11 AM to 11:30 PM
- Sunday – 11 AM to 10 PM
Cost: $
If you’re a fan of combining your coffee runs with a touch of sweetness, La Catrina Churros + Café Bar should be high on your list. This charming spot is all about those deliciously crispy churros that you can dunk in a variety of sugary dips.
Besides the golden churros, they’ve got some savoury options too, like sandwiches, empanadas, pulled pork, and more. Their coffee isn’t an afterthought either; from robust espressos to frothy cappuccinos, they’ve got it all.
If you’re not in the mood for coffee, you can always opt for their hot chocolates and milkshakes.
| Pro tip: La Catrina offers gift cards, which make for an excellent present for any foodie in your life. They’re perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just to brighten someone’s day. |
Ideal Cafe
– Media credit: idealcoffeeottawa
Address: 176 Dalhousie St.
Contact details: +1 613 562 1775
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 5 PM
Cost: $$
Ideal Cafe offers a straightforward selection of coffee, but what they lack in numbers, they make up for in quality. Their pour-overs are particularly amazing, bringing out flavours you didn’t know existed in a coffee bean.
If you’re into espresso-based drinks, you’ll appreciate their cappuccinos and lattes. Ideal Cafe also serves up some fantastic breakfast and lunch options like avocado toast and sandwiches.
They also have some baked goods; their muffins and cookies are usually fresh out of the oven. These are the kind of items that make you wistful for a second helping.
| Pro tip: Don’t miss checking out their online or physical store for their exclusive coffee blends. It’s a great way to bring a piece of Ideal Cafe into your home and enjoy their stellar coffee anytime you want. |
The SconeWitch
– Media credit: eatsxeats
Address: 150 Elgin St.
Contact details: +1 613 232 2173
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 4 PM
Cost: $$
The SconeWitch is undoubtedly one of the best spots if you’re serious about your scones. Their menu features a wide assortment of both sweet and savoury scones, as well as jams and some breakfast items.
Naturally, you’ll want something to wash it all down, and their coffee offerings hit the mark. From classic drip coffee to more elaborate lattes and cappuccinos, it’s all there.
What also makes The SconeWitch stand out is their various sandwich offerings, where scones play the crucial role of bread. It’s a unique twist and one that works incredibly well.
| Pro tip: The scones sell out fast, especially the popular flavours. Get there early to avoid missing out on your favourites. |
