ho doesn’t love a nice, warm cup of coffee on a cold winter morning—or a cold winter afternoon, or, uh, a cold winter evening?
Coffee is the one the most popular beverages in the world, second only to water, although you could make the argument that being 98.75 percent the latter qualifies it to ascend the throne. Canadian coffee drinkers consume an average of 2.7 cups of coffee per day, down from 3.6 cups in 2008, if you can believe it.
And we can—because coffee is packed with antioxidants and vitamins, including riboflavin, magnesium, and potassium. It also contains a healthy amount of caffeine, which can help us to feel less tired, increase our energy levels, improve memory, productivity, and brain function, and burn fat when used in moderation.
Coffee also provides plenty of opportunities for social interaction—especially in St. Catharines! With plenty of inviting cafes and bistros to gather, talk, relax, work, romance, and be entertained in, St. Catharines easily rivals the large metropolises of North America with its thriving café culture—just one of the many reasons why so many people are dying to live here at the moment!
So, where are the best places in town to get what Agent Dale Cooper would call, erm, excuse me, a damn fine cup of coffee?
Mahtay Café & Lounge
Named after the South American tea yerba mate, this cozy industrial hub with bohemian flourishes is a cultural mecca in the downtown core. In addition to great coffee, a variety of loose leaf teas, and an extensive menu of delicious soups, salads, sandwiches, and baked goods, this local art-filled café always serves up great vibes and is an excellent place to chill, study, and work at any time of day.
As part of their community-oriented mission, they are also host to a whole host of local events, including concerts, improv, drag shows, LGBTQ meet-ups, makers markets, and, of course, their legendary open mic nights.
For the latest up-to-date information on all the goings-on, visit their website here, or check them out on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
The Green Apple Coffee House
With additional locations in Port Colborne and Fort Erie, this warm and welcoming coffee house features some of the finest hand-crafted, organic, and fair-trade coffees, teas, and specialty drinks the city has to offer, as well as a number of delicious house-made pastries, protein balls, and other unparalleled baked items.
Located at the intersection of St. Paul and James, this expansive, historic café spans two floors, boasting some of downtown’s most beautiful and unique architectural features. For more information, visit their website here, or follow them on Facebook and Instagram here.
Fine Grind Café
This eclectic, cozy café has been serving the Niagara community since 1995. Filled with an extensive collection of vintage books and board games, this hidden gem in the heart of downtown is bustling with retro charm and specializes in hand-crafted, artisanal coffee delicacies, lovingly made malt-shop style milkshakes, and a limited food menu with plenty of vegan options.
Follow them on Facebook and Instagram here!
Thistle Bookshop and Café
This tiny waterfront gem in the heart of beautiful Port Dalhousie opened in late 2020 to much fanfare and has quickly become a North End staple. Their well-curated selection of compelling classic and contemporary texts pairs nicely with their expansive menu of specialty coffees, teas, and baked goods.
While indoor seating is limited, the café is located only steps from the beach, making it the perfect spot for those who’d like to curl up with a good book and a full-bodied cup of Joe and bask in the open air. How poetic!
Visit their website or follow them on Instagram here.
The Brazen Café
Located at 19 King Street, this fully licensed burlesque-inspired nook in the heart of downtown boasts the best coffee in the city, along with the option to add a little extra punch! In addition to their extensive palette of espresso drinks, they also serve an array of artisanal cocktails, desserts, pastries, and gelato to help get you through the day!
For some light café reading, we suggest stopping in at Someday Books next door!
Visit The Brazen Café’s website here or follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
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At McGarr Realty, we believe in doing our part to foster a thriving, robust local culture in the Niagara Region. We always delight in watching our clients experience St. Catharines and the surrounding areas to the fullest! For all your local real estate needs, get in touch with our team of passionate and enthusiastic REALTORS® today.
We can be reached by phone in St. Catharines at 905-687-9229, in Niagara-on-the-Lake at 905-468-9229, or you can send us a message on our contact page, HERE.