One of the things I love about Newfoundland, is it’s ability to infuse unique traits into anything that comes to mind, with cafés being a loud representation of this- I’ve rounded up my 5 favourite cafes in St.John’s, that will want you coming back for more.
Newfoundland Chocolate Café
The Newfoundland Chocolate Company opened cafés around the city to spread the unique chocolate infusions offered to those who come and visit the city from near and far- they’ve created a name for Newfoundland and it’s chocolate by having locations all across Newfoundland, making it’s way to British Columbia. They have a wide range of items that compliment their coffee, from sandwiches with dark chocolate infusions, their namesake chocolates, and their homemade gelato. The café is a complimentary mix of tasty goodies that go with coffee perfectly.
Why they’re so unique: Not only do they have amazing coffee, but their chocolate creations bring local traits to life with unique flavours, representing areas of Newfoundland or the current social landscape. They also offer The Chocolate 101 Class which participants discover the art of chocolate making (you get to make your own box of chocolates), a tasting, and a tour of where the famous chocolates are made.
Fixed Coffee + Baking
Fixed Coffee + Baking is new to the coffee scene in the city, but offers that rustic coffee shop feel with old downtown views. Situated next to the War Memorial on Duckworth Street, Fixed Coffee + Baking is a perfect place during the warmer days, allowing ample amount of seating outside the shop to enjoy a coffee with friends, where you’re more than likely to run into someone you know passing on the street.
Why they’re so unique: The owner of Fixed knows his way around coffee, having experienced it on an international level, and partners with local vendors to further promote the Newfoundland reputation of friendliness supporting non-profit and independent shops. Fixed also has pop-ups so everyone can enjoy their coffee.
Rocket Bakery + Fresh Food
Rocket Bakery, or Rocket to locals, is in the middle of Water street and is in the perfect place to grab a coffee with something from their French inspired bakery, and enjoy the bustle of Water street.
Why they’re so unique: Rocket offers a wide range of food options, from baked goods, signature cakes, confections, savoury tarts and pies, to catering and even groceries- Rocket brings Water street back to the days of one stop shopping in a hub of local, handmade flair.
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Coffee Matters
Coffee Matters is a little mix of everything, with multiple locations to suit. Out of all the cafés on this list, Coffee Matters is definitely the coziest to go on a rainy, gloomy day- free wi-fi included. Their coffee is what I look forward to the most when I’m not going to Starbucks or Second Cup, it’s freshly roasted with Newfoundland flair. They also offer a range of sandwiches, soups, and salads that change with the seasons and compliment their cozy atmosphere and coffee.
Why they’re so unique: They offer their version of a picnic; their lunch-t0-go picnic offers a gourmet sandwich, salad, homemade kettle chips, a homemade dessert square, and a bottle of water to go. The café also is a big supporter of local charity events, offering a warm cup of joe.
The Grounds Café
The Grounds Café is a farm-to-table café, that sources ingredients from their farm, Murray’s Meadow Farm, and other local producers to curate a menu that offers vegan and gluten free options (their menu makes visitors line up out the door, everyday!). The café is located in Portugal Cove- Saint Phillips, and is worth the drive. The café offers a bright atmosphere with options of breakfast, lunch, and dessert that are all sourced from Newfoundland and made with attention to detail.
Why they’re unique: They feature coffee that’s roasted locally, and their lunch menu causes line-ups out the door. They work with local farms to source their ingredients and curate menu items that are different everyday, and create dishes with ingredients you normally wouldn’t put together but are incredible together.
What’s another café you visit, or think I should visit next? I’m doing a Toronto version soon, and I can’t wait to share the details with you. Until Wednesday,
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