Cafes are seriously some of the coolest places to hang out. They’re wistfully reminiscent of leisurely days in Europe, sipping that triple soy latte…or something like that. But, no need to panic non coffee lovers, there are many different kinds of cafes right under your nose! Pick your poison: romantic gelato cafes, cafes that offer amazing brunches, cafes that are great for studying, Hong-Kong style dessert cafes, cafes with amazing classic chocolatiers, specialty tea rooms, spots with unbelievable latte art, and a few more very interesting places to explore.
Living in Ottawa certainly has its perks, since it’s pretty easy to escape the city. Just 10 minutes from the downtown core is Chelsea (Quebec), bringing an old world charm to the quaint countryside. There are tons of things to do on a day-trip here, like wandering around the main street, enjoying some fine dining and drinks in old log cabins, or hiking along one of the many beautiful trails in Gatineau Park, However, you cannot leave without visiting the Siberian Cat Cafe (you’ll need your caffeine fix at some point, am I right or am I right?). This is easily one of the coolest cafes around the Ottawa area. I just never thought something like this would ever exist – it’s so fascinating, and is guaranteed to lift your mood. The only breed they have here is Siberians, which are hypoallergenic, so no need to worry about that. They serve delicious coffee everyday to tantalize your taste buds – it’s the only place around I’ve been able to order a Viennesse coffee (let me know if any other places do so!). There’s tons of info about Siberian cats on their helpful website, but I don’t need to say too much except “cuteness overload”. Check it out and head out there as soon as you can – especially if you win the giveaway coming up.:)
Located at 205 Chemin Old Chelsea
Oh thank the Good Lord Narcity Ottawa (shout out!) had this on their website. I think I can safely say that most of us Ottawans have been craving some sort of greenery or lovely flowers or a garden after this super long long winter. It’s getting lovelier outdoors now, but FYI for next winter or if it’s a rainy, windy, all-time shitty day, I have THE place for you: Aquatopia Conservatory. Located in Carp, it’s well within driving distance from downtown, but if you’re like my family and complain about anything out of your own neighbourhood being too far, your mind will quickly change when you arrive – I promise. Aquatopia Conservatory is an indoor water garden, a wedding venue, and a cafe. It’s rocking an eco-system pond, a rambling stream and a pondless waterfall. There’s even more good news other than the coffee: you can shop here! They sell plants, flowers, fish, and goodies like hand cream, sea salt body spray, and ultra-hydrating body butter. This dramatic destination is enclosed in a glass conservatory, so it’s open all-year round. Make the drive for sure and enjoy a gourmet coffee and pastry while relaxing inside this botanical delight.
Located at 2710 March Road
The cafe is open Tuesday-Saturday 9:00AM-2:30PM
They serve breakfast up until 11:30AM
One of a kind. Awe-inspiring. The trendiest thing around. All of these words certainly accurately describe this new addition to the local scene. If we must get into labels, they describe themselves as a consignment bar – and that’s exactly what they are. You can sit down in the booth or one of the few tables (it’s smallish, but what hip spot isn’t?) while you order food (CornDogs FOR SURE). While you wait, or after you’re meal/drinks, you can shop the bar – meaning you have the liberty to basically root through the hidden gems that grace the space around. They sell vintage decor which is used as decoration in their bar until its bought – so if you want it, it’s yours! There is literally nowhere like this in Ottawa…and for once, I don’t think I know of this anywhere else either (Bravo Otts!). BONUS: they have pub trivia nights, which is definitely a ton of fun AND on my Canada 150 Ottawa Bucket List, so I know I’ll be back!
Located at 139 Preston St.
Open from 5pm-2am every day of the week
So there you have it – three of the coolest cafes around. I’m sure that I’ll stumble across more since our city is just getting better and better, but in the mean time, try checking them out! Feedback is always appreciated.:) Tell me about your experience, likes, dislikes, weird shit that happens, etc. Now for the giveaway…
GIVEAWAY
These spots are just way too wicked not to be able to share something with you, SO my dear friends, I’ve managed to score a $25 gift card to the Siberian Cafe along with a reusable cup with their logo value at $40. What a sweet little package!
HOW TO ENTER (EACH INCLUDES ONE ENTRY)
1. Post a comment below about anything interesting relating to cafes – I’d love to hear your stories.:)
2. Follow @holliegracejames on Instagram (if you have it) and tag a friend (or two or three) on my latest selfie that promotes this giveaway.
3. Retweet me @holliegracej.
4. Share this blog post on Facebook.
Contest closes Friday June 2 2017 at 4:00pm EST.
Lotsa Local Love 