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Curated by Tony & Ledi, Guelph Real Estate Team | Category: Best of Guelph, Living in Guelph
As real estate experts with a deep love for the Guelph community, we’re committed to supporting local businesses. To help you discover the best spots in town, we’ve put together a series of guides, including this list of our favorite coffee shops. These recommendations are part of our ongoing effort to support local businesses and services in Guelph.
Guelph has a thriving coffee culture, with a variety of cafés that each offer a unique atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a cozy nook or a modern space to sip your brew, there’s something for everyone here. And no, we’re not compensated for these picks! If you have a favorite that should be on this list, let us know.
1. Red Brick Café
8 Douglas St, Guelph
Red Brick Café stands out for its warm, artsy ambiance. With its spacious seating areas, live music events, and rotating local art displays, it’s the perfect place for a cozy coffee date. They offer a variety of drinks, from coffee to wine, plus light bites. A heads-up: outlets are limited, so plan accordingly, and parking can be tricky downtown.
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2. Planet Bean
Locations: 259 Grange Road East & 2 Wyndham St, Guelph
A pioneer in Guelph’s coffee scene since 1997, Planet Bean is known for its Fairtrade, organic Arabica coffee. The Grange Road location is their original roastery, offering fresh beans and expertly crafted drinks. While downtown parking is limited, it’s worth the visit for their rich brews and friendly atmosphere.
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3. Balzac's
5 Gordon St S, Guelph
Originally from Stratford, Balzac’s has become a staple in Guelph. Located near the Guelph Farmers' Market, it’s a go-to spot for Saturday morning coffee runs. The space is filled with natural light and has plenty of seating, perfect for people-watching. Be prepared for a crowd on market days, but the coffee is worth the wait.
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4. Cavan Coffee
1467 Gordon St S, Guelph
Formerly a Planet Bean location, Cavan Coffee is a popular South Guelph destination. With a homey vibe and ample seating, it’s an ideal spot to unwind with a good book or catch up with friends. To reach the location, enter through Heritage Dr, as Gordon St access is restricted.
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5. The Common
28 Wilson St, Guelph
For those who appreciate a laid-back, old-school vibe, The Common is a hidden gem. With no formal menu or website, this café keeps things simple but delivers excellent made-to-order coffee. Patience is key, as a great cup takes time, especially during busy hours. Their baked goods, sourced from Eric the Baker, are a must-try.
6. Lost Aviator
404 York Rd, Guelph
Founded in 2020 by two pilots, Lost Aviator has quickly become a favorite among Guelph’s coffee enthusiasts. Located in an up-and-coming area of The Ward, the café offers a small seating area, baked goods, and quality coffee. Despite some ongoing construction nearby, it’s worth making the trip to support this local gem.
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7. Found Coffee
17 Gordon St S, Guelph
A newcomer to the Guelph scene, Found Coffee has a strong community focus and offers more than just coffee. Their menu includes healthy options like steel-cut oats and avocado toast, and they’re dedicated to supporting social justice initiatives. It’s one of the few spots in town with an online ordering system, making it easy to grab a quick bite.
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8. Capistrano Bistro
42 Wyndham St N, Guelph
Capistrano Bistro is a Guelph classic, known for both its great coffee and full lunch menu. From salads to paninis, there’s something for everyone. During the summer, you can enjoy live music in downtown Guelph while sipping a fresh brew. Like many downtown spots, parking is limited, so plan ahead.
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9. With the Grain
295 Woolwich St, Guelph
While primarily a bakery, With the Grain serves excellent coffee sourced from Lost Aviator. It’s a take-out-only spot, but perfect if you’re in the mood for a delicious baked treat alongside your coffee. If it’s been a while since your last visit, their offerings have only gotten better!
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10. Miijidaa Café + Bistro
37 Quebec St, Guelph
Miijidaa Café + Bistro isn’t just about great coffee; it’s about a great experience. This spot is perfect if you’re looking for a warm, inviting atmosphere with a focus on locally-sourced ingredients. Enjoy a well-crafted coffee or espresso alongside a delicious breakfast or lunch in their cozy space. It’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy the charm of downtown Guelph.
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11. Kirtida Kitchen Café
328 Speedvale Ave E, Guelph
A hidden gem in the north end of Guelph, Kirtida Kitchen Café offers a unique blend of traditional Indian flavors and classic coffee drinks. It’s a cozy spot for those who enjoy trying new things, with options like spiced lattes and chai alongside classic espresso beverages. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, making it a great place for a peaceful coffee break.
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