The 11 Best Coffee Shops in Ottawa for Caffeine Lovers

This article highlights the 11 best coffee shops in Ottawa. These shops were picked because they create experiences. At Black Squirrel Books & Espresso Bar, you can enjoy a warm drink while surrounded by books, or you can appreciate the artistic vibe at Art House. There are many more options.

So, why check out this list? It’ll help you find new spots, connect with other coffee lovers, or just discover a great place to chill.

Each coffee shop has its own charm and style, waiting for you to explore. Grab your favorite mug, get comfortable, and let’s dive into Ottawa’s best coffee shops!

Little Victories Coffee Roasters in Ottawa is a must-visit for anyone who loves a great cup of coffee.

Located right in the city center, this cozy café is more than just a place to grab a drink—it's a friendly spot for coffee fans who want to learn more about what they’re drinking.

The café is run by two coffee enthusiasts: one who roasts the beans and another who brews the perfect cup. They're passionate about improving the coffee scene in Ottawa and make sure to get their beans directly from farmers, which is pretty awesome.

At Little Victories, the coffee is top-notch. They focus on light roasts, which are great if you enjoy a coffee that’s flavorful and a bit sweet.

They use a special 15kg Loring Falcon roaster to make sure every batch tastes amazing. And, if you’re into coffee gear or want a stylish tote bag, they have some cool merchandise for sale.

The café itself has a modern and simple design that feels really inviting. It’s the perfect spot to chill with an oat latte or a chai latte, both of which get a lot of praise from customers.

They’re always willing to help you figure out what to order and explain how everything is made. They also have a subscription service for coffee beans, so you can enjoy their ethically sourced coffee at home.

You can find Little Victories in the lively Glebe neighborhood. It's a cashless café, but there’s plenty of street parking around.

Walking into Opulence Coffee feels like stepping into a warm and comfy hideaway where the delicious smell of freshly roasted coffee beans surrounds you like a cozy blanket.

This place is special in Ottawa because they make their own unique coffee blends right there. It's a great spot for anyone who loves coffee, filled with rich tastes and inviting scents that grab your attention as soon as you get close.

The coffee menu here is interesting and full of choices, with options ranging from light to dark roasts.

The experience of enjoying a cup made from beans that come from the high mountains in the Gitega region of Burundi is delightful.

These beans have a light flavor with hints of flowers and red fruits that create a pleasant taste. If you like something a bit stronger, the medium dark roast from Copan, Honduras, could be just right for you.

The decorations show how much the staff loves coffee, and the friendly baristas and owner often share cool stories and tips about coffee.

People love their lattes, Americanos, and even the hot chocolate, which is just as good as the coffee. And, it’s a dog-friendly place, so you can bring your furry friend along too.

Visitors from nearby and far away often say they can't wait to come back because of the amazing service and cozy feel.

Located in the lively Britannia area of Ottawa, Britannia Coffeehouse is a fantastic spot for anyone looking to enjoy a cozy place to hang out.

This charming cafe also doubles as a tasty ice cream shop, thanks to its neighbor, Beachconer's Microcreamery.

When you visit, you can expect a great selection of drinks and baked goods, with their scones getting a special mention. You can enjoy a blueberry-maple butter scone or try a savory one—both are delicious!

If you love coffee, you’re in for a treat with options like nitro cold brew and lattes, all made special with homemade syrups that add a unique twist to your drink.

The staff is super friendly, and the welcoming vibe makes it a great place to chill. The decor is a mix of local art and vintage finds, some of which you can even buy.

Got dietary restrictions? No worries! They have options for vegans, vegetarians, and those looking for gluten-free or dairy-free choices, so everyone can find something yummy to eat.

Although there’s no free WiFi, this encourages guests to unplug and enjoy the surroundings, making it ideal for families or anyone wanting to relax.

And don’t miss out on their caramel apple cinnamon buns—they’re made from scratch and bursting with flavor.

Located right in the center of Ottawa, Happy Goat Coffee Co. is the perfect place for anyone who wants to enjoy a great coffee.

You can sip your drink inside or outside, making it a nice escape from the busy city life. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, and the friendly staff adds to the overall experience, making it a popular hangout for both locals and visitors.

At Happy Goat, you’ll discover a wide variety of coffee options. They even have a seasonal menu that features tasty drinks like caramel hot chocolate and the unique marshmallow oat latte.

If you're in the mood for a snack, you’re in luck! They offer Mavericks donuts along with vegan and gluten-free treats that pair perfectly with your coffee.

The shop is also really welcoming, as it’s wheelchair accessible and provides free WiFi, making it a great spot for studying or just hanging out.

The newest location on Elgin Street has a spacious setup, complete with cozy couches and a high bar, so there's plenty of room to relax and enjoy your drink.

Happy Goat is also very involved in the community, hosting fun events like Queers and Cheers to bring people together for a good time. Although parking can be a bit tricky, visiting Happy Goat Coffee Co. is definitely worth it.

Located right in the center of Ottawa, Black Squirrel Books & Espresso Bar is a perfect spot for anyone who loves books and coffee.

This cozy place features the aroma of freshly brewed coffee mixed with the smell of old, cherished books. The environment encourages visitors to slow down and explore everything it has to offer.

This inviting bookstore café has a great mix of new and used books. With two floors packed with a wide range of titles, you can find everything from classic novels to the latest bestsellers.

The prices are reasonable too, so you can snag your next favorite book without spending too much.

But it’s not just about the books here. The café is a comfy spot to enjoy a drink, be it coffee, tea, or even craft beer and wine.

If you’re in the mood for a snack, they have delicious light bites and sweet treats, including cookies and vegan options for those who prefer plant-based goodies.

The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, making it a welcoming environment. They also have notable features like gender-neutral bathrooms and a special section for rare African books.

If you have old books you want to get rid of, the store has a book trade-in system where you can get good credits in return.

In the center of Ottawa, The Art House Café is a cool spot for coffee lovers and art fans. Opened in 2017, this café has found a special way to mix coffee and creativity.

You can enjoy a delicious espresso while surrounded by unique artworks from over 100 local artists. It serves as a mini art gallery where the pieces change regularly, so there’s always something fresh to look at.

The café is located in a charming old Victorian house, creating a welcoming vibe with different rooms that each have their own feel.

You can relax inside or hang out on their dog-friendly patio, it feels like a hidden treasure. The menu offers a nice variety of espresso drinks, specialty cocktails, and light snacks.

They serve coffee from Happy Goat, and if you like non-dairy options, you can get oat or almond milk.

What really makes The Art House Café special is its focus on community and culture. You can buy tickets for events either at the café or online, so you won’t miss out. And, they accept art submissions, making it a showcase for local artists.

While it’s a popular spot for creativity and coffee, it’s also a friendly place. The staff are known for being kind and helpful, which adds to the café's charm.

If you're looking for a coffee spot that feels good and tastes great, check out Bridgehead Roastery and Coffeehouse in Ottawa.

This place is famous for bringing Fairtrade coffee to Canada, and it's a locally-owned favorite with 15 locations around the city.

Bridgehead is all about supporting family farmers worldwide, so you know that every cup you drink is both fair and tasty.

When you walk into Bridgehead, you’ll notice a cozy yet cool vibe, thanks to the high ceilings and big coffee roasters you can see. It’s a great place to grab a quick drink or to settle in with your laptop.

There’s plenty of seating and free Wi-Fi, making it a popular spot for groups hanging out or people getting work done.

Their menu features a wide variety of drinks, from strong coffees and lattes to relaxing teas. If you're avoiding dairy, no worries—there are lots of options for you.

And don’t miss out on their baked goods! They offer everything from scones and croissants to yummy cookies.

Bridgehead also sells their coffee in grocery stores and you can order it online for easy pick-up or delivery.

And if you spend over $45, shipping across Canada is free! Their catering services are great too, perfect for making office meetings more enjoyable with good coffee and snacks.

Located right in the middle of Centretown, Arlington Five is the perfect spot for anyone craving a good cup of coffee in Ottawa.

This cozy café, found at 5 Arlington Avenue, has quickly become a favorite hangout since it opened in 2015.

The owners, who are neighbors, wanted to create a unique and welcoming space that combines their love for coffee with a focus on community and art—and they've nailed it!

As soon as you walk into Arlington Five, you’ll feel like you’ve entered a warm and creative hideout. With its beautiful cherry wood harvest table and cool brick walls, the café has a comfy, homey atmosphere.

It’s a great place to work, catch up with friends, or just soak in the artistic vibe. Also, if you need a break from inside, there's a back patio where you can relax.

Their menu is full of fun choices, from rich espressos to unique drinks like blueberry crumble matcha and strawberry matcha.

If you’re hungry, don’t miss out on their vegan muffins and scones, which are delicious. Their tofu breakfast sandwich and ham and cheese breakfast are also popular and definitely worth trying.

They even offer a maple oat latte, which comes with oat milk as the default—perfect for anyone who prefers plant-based options without paying extra.

They support local artists by displaying their work and often host pop-up events and community gatherings.

The Ministry of Coffee and Social Affairs is making some exciting changes in Ottawa's coffee world.

They’ll be closing their Wellington Street spot by early 2025, but they have a new website coming and a cool coffee lab on Colonnade Road South.

This lab will focus on quality coffee, letting people try out home brewing equipment and hosting training sessions and events.

If you love coffee, The Ministry of Coffee is a great place to be. Since 2013, they have been finding the best coffee beans from around the globe, offering flavors that can be sweet and chocolatey or bright and citrusy.

The atmosphere at The Ministry of Coffee is really welcoming. It has a chill vibe with friendly staff, making it a great spot for studying, working, or just hanging out.

Inside, you’ll find hardwood tables, concrete floors, and lots of plants, plus a nice patio outside. Soft jazz music plays in the background, creating a relaxed setting.

Besides coffee, the café also has delicious food like a veggie breakfast sandwich and croque monsieur.

They offer a changing selection of coffee from Canadian roasters and even have an afternoon menu with scotches. If you want to take some coffee home, they sell various coffee beans, many for under $20.

Located in the center of Ottawa, Drip House is the perfect place to grab a tasty cup of coffee. This cozy café is known for its amazing coffee choices, from smooth lattes to rich mochas that coffee lovers can't get enough of.

But there's more to enjoy! Drip House also has a selection of delicious sandwiches. Popular ones like the "Tune Up" and "Bernie" sandwiches are favorites among locals and are sure to please your taste buds.

The atmosphere in the café is a mix of chill and trendy, making it a great spot for both social butterflies and people who need to focus on work.

The modern design features local artwork that you can buy, along with some vintage decorations, creating a warm space where creativity can flourish.

They also have a tasty breakfast menu. Starting your day with fresh avocado toast or smoked salmon toast, made with high-quality ingredients, is a great way to fuel up.

What makes Drip House even more special is that they sometimes host events featuring local artists, so your coffee break can include a fun cultural experience. And, there's easy parking and it's close to the Ottawa River, making it an even better place to visit.

Morning Owl Coffeehouse + Parlour in Ottawa is a fantastic place for coffee fans looking for something special.

Since 2009, this cozy café has been serving delicious organic coffee, making it a favorite spot in the community.

Each location is owned by friendly people who truly care about coffee, making sure every cup is filled with love.

When you walk into Morning Owl, it feels warm and inviting, with walls decorated with art that adds to the cozy vibe.

It’s a perfect place to study or do homework because it’s quiet, and they offer free Wi-Fi and lots of charging spots for your devices.

The drink menu is exciting, with options like Cortado, iced pumpkin spice lattes, and even a strawberry and matcha latte for those who want to try something new.

Additionally, they roast their coffee beans right in the café, in small batches, so every sip is packed with amazing flavors and smells.

The staff is known for being super helpful and quick, so they’re always ready to help out, like reducing waste from packaging, which makes it a beloved spot for many.

So there you have it! From the comfy spots at Little Victories Coffee Roasters to the book-loving atmosphere at Black Squirrel Books & Espresso Bar, Ottawa's coffee scene is full of personality and great flavors. Each place was chosen to show off the different vibes and tastes that coffee fans in the city can enjoy. 

Remember, life is all about trying new things, and what better way to kick it off than with a hot cup of coffee in your hand?

For more fun ideas and activities, don’t forget to check out ActiviFinder Ottawa. There’s a whole world of excitement just waiting for you!