While 2020 has limited how many actual shops I’ve been able to visit, there was still many an opportunity to check out some amazing shops. Without further ado, let’s dive on in!
5. Discovery Coffee (Victoria)
Vancouver Island truly is blessed to have such an amazing coffee scene (hence why three of my top five shops are based on the Island). Landing at number five is Discovery Coffee. Discovery has several locations scattered throughout the Victoria area. They make a fantastic latte and they also have amazing doughnuts to pair with them. Discovery is a must visit place (or shall we say a place worth discovering). Regardless, I can’t recommend them enough.
You can find my full write-up on Discovery Coffee here.
4. White Rabbit Coffee Co. (Nanaimo)
White Rabbit has a lot of positives going for it. First, it’s located in an old train station which is super neat, and probably makes it the coolest location of any shop on this list. Second, they have amazing coffee that really speaks for itself. The cortado I sampled from them was incredible, and it was overall an amazing experience. Next time I’m in Nanaimo, I will definitely be back.
Check out my thoughts on White Rabbit here.
3. Merci Coffee (Chilliwack)
Matt and Jess, founders and operators of Merci Coffee, are two fantastic people. They are super friendly and and make a great cup of coffee. Everything from their staple drinks such as lattes to all of their seasonal drinks, I’ve never been disappointed in Merci. Now, I know that I coffee truck might not technically be a coffee shop, but hey, I’m writing this list so I’ll allow it. Whenever you’re out in Chilliwack they are a must visit place!
My review of Merci Coffee can be found here.
2. Amble Coffee (Chilliwack)
In the battle of coffee trucks, Amble just gets the edge (although they are both practically interchangeable in this spot). Amble has a very picturesque backdrop to enjoy while sipping their amazing coffee. I love their logo and their truck. Again, another all around amazing experience that has earned them a very well deserved spot on this list.
Check out my initial review of Amble Coffee here.
1. French Press Coffee Roasters (Qualicum Beach)
And just like that, we’re at the number one spot on the countdown. When I visited this cafe way back in February, I was incredibly impressed, giving it a 4.5/5 overall. I enjoyed the setting of the cafe, the overall hustle and bustle, as well as the taste of both the food and, most importantly, the coffee. Whenever I’m able to return to the Island, French Press is high on my list of places to visit!
See just why I love French Press so much by checking out my experience here.
Well, there you have it folks, my favourite shops of 2020. Here’s to next year where I hope to visit more again. Be sure to keep an eye out on the blog next week as I countdown my favourite roasters of 2020- I’ll see you then!
-Matt
Matt's Coffee Chat 