The best places to get your caffeine fix
Looking for a better atmosphere to get some work done? Look no further than some of Guelph’s best coffee shops to get an excellent ambience and that caffeine fix we all so desperately need. Do yourself a favour and take some time to venture to all the different local coffee shops the city has to offer to find which best suits your mood on any given day.

The Red Brick Cafe – The Red Brick Cafe has two locations in Guelph: 8 Douglas Street (see the downtown map for location) and 77 Westmount Road. The two locations have a slightly different vibe, but both are host to the same delicious delicacies you are looking for when you are in need of a pick me up, a relaxing conversation with friends, or a new place to spend an hour or two sipping on an specialty coffee while making your way through one of your favourite books. The atmosphere is artistic and romantic, filled with warm, rich colours, light music, and local art – it is a must-check-out location.
Planet Bean – Planet Bean Coffee is “freshly roasted, Fair Trade certified organic coffee” roasted right here in Guelph. With three locations in Guelph and availability at different venues throughout the city, Planet Bean has made quite the name for itself. The quality and ethics behind the coffee speaks for itself – it is delicious, and they are experts. The coffee bars are located at the following locations: 2 Wyndham Street (see downtown map), unit 1-1467 Gordon Street (South End), and 259 Grange Street East (this location houses the headquarters, the roastery, and a coffee bar). Planet Bean is a coffee house that holds their ethics and standards in high regard, and they have done an excellent job showing this to the community. An interesting and important notice to University of Guelph students and staff that love Planet Bean coffee: it is served at the Bullring on Campus!
The Cornerstone – The Cornerstone is located on Carden Street, across the road from Planet Bean. It is known primarily for its vegetarian and vegan cuisine, so it’s the perfect place to go for a meal with a health conscious friend who still loves full-flavoured food. It is also an ideal location to spend a rainy afternoon when looking for a cozy place to call home for a few hours.

Capistrano Cafe – Capistrano Cafe is located in the Guelph downtown square, right next to Play with Clay (see downtown map). Capistrano is known for its chai latte, and has a number of different brews ready to be served daily.
With the Grain Cafe and Bakery – With the Grain is located on the corner of London and Woolwich, just on the edge of downtown (trust me, it’s worth the walk). With the Grain serves Planet Bean coffee and a slew of baked goods and breakfast and lunch items to try out. It’s a bustling place every morning with people looking to get their daily fix. The decor is eclectic and homey. If you are looking for somewhere that feels like a bright cottage kitchen, this is your place!
Whatever vibe you are looking for, local coffee houses have you covered. Check out what the City of Guelph has to offer when you have time to venture off campus. Treat yourself to deliciously brewed coffee in between the fast and easy trips to Starbucks, Williams, Tim Hortons, Second Cup, and Seattle’s Best – all which are scattered around campus. Remember to bring your own mug – let’s enjoy our coffee without creating more garbage.
