19 Best Cafes near Gabriola

“I don’t usually write a review but had to say after popping in for a tea and sandwich today the place was lined up down the sidewalk. The staff did an amazing job today, I was really impressed with the speed and service. With everyone complaining about staff shortages this place is truly blessed with great staff“

“Becky was INCREDIBLE. We booked her to cater our wedding and she was insanely amazing. Not only was this a convenient option for us having our wedding on Gabriola Island but she blew our expectations OUT OF THE WATER. From picking a menu - to me having some weird requests that she fulfilled without question. We last minute ordered some breakfast munchies for the morning after and without fail - Becky and team created the most beautiful fruit tray I have ever witnessed and the most delicious baked goods. I cannot say enough about how incredible Ground Up was to work with and we will continue to be frequent customers at the Ground Up Cafe!!!!!!!“

“Beautiful and calming space with the kindest owners who share their love and appreciation of their customers. Incredible food and fresh made goodies with a variety of drinks to try each time you go. 10/10 recommend.“

“it gets busy at around noon so get in early for brunch. eggs Bennie is really good“

“I got a pumpkin spice latte and my wife had a matcha latte. The service was great and the drinks were also great (best we've had in a long time). I also bought some beans and cant wait to try them at home (but they smell really good so i have high hopes).“

“Pleaseeeee do try the hot dogs!!! Hot and fresh!!!! It’s one of the only shops opened on New Year’s Day, we were searching for eats, tried hot dog and clam chowder, it’s good portion!The small shop has only three tables but has regular customers who come for coffee every morning, owner was really nice lady. Everyone here were friendly and we had a great chat!“

“I certainly don't share in some of these other petulant reviews. Ive often had the "full breakfast" at Connections and found the food to be fresh, tasty, nicely cooked and hot. The coffee tastes fresh and acceptable. The staff are always courteous and accomodating. Try buying a breakfast in downtown Nanaimo and you will pay 20% more than Connections and you will have to wait longer and probably stand in a lineup to order.

Parking: Affordable parking“

“Yum....I enjoyed this a lot! The mixture of flavors and the attention to details. The poached eggs were perfect! The corn and bean cakes were the perfect landing for the eggs, salsa and goodness.
The only thing: I wish they would have asked/we would have told them NOT to butter the toast!“

“The vault is the coolest location in Nanaimo and going there is an experience. This spot is popular with locals and with tourists, as one of the best venues in town as well as just the coolest spot. The staff are amazing and the food is awesome. If it's poppin in there will you wait a bit? Yes, but that's because it is well loved.“

“Lovely coffee and muffin on a rainy day. Guest were enjoying themselves, staff were polite, and there’s lots of art on the walls“

“Had been told Reds was the place to go for nanaimo bars. I'm sorry... it's not....it's Bocca Cafe. Tried the blackcurrant and lavender because the salted caramel was out. It was a heavenly surprise. We leave tomorrow but if we had found this place sooner we would have been in to try all the flavours. Savoury offerings also looked incredible....
Friendly and welcoming staff. Small space but lovely atmosphere.“

“Best sausage rolls I’ve ever had!“

“Had a really nice BLT and coffee, great service Thanks“

“Mille Grazie! Your food is always magnificent! Not only did you fit us in without a reservation on a busy weekend night, after I called the wrong restaurant; but you gave us a wonderful table with amazing staff! Very special mention to the Ceaser I enjoyed before dinner! Highly recommend it! May you have a wonderful 2024! You always make your guests feel like part of the family!“

“We had an amazing treat at Ironworks Cafe & Creperie. So many tempting choices, both sweet and savoury. Three of us wanted to share two crepes, and asked if our choices could be cut into thirds. Renee plated the thirds individually with full garnishes. 🌟🌟🌟 We had the ‘Four Berries and Cream” (sweet) and the ‘Spinach, Artichoke & Brie” (savoury). Hmmmmm. Latte was excellent. 🌟 Locally owned, caringly staffed, local ingredients. So impressed. Thank you.“

“Great food, friendly loved it.“

“Definitely one of my favourite coffee shops. I visit regularly- the staff are very friendly and attentive, the atmosphere is always relaxed and welcoming. The coffee is first class!“

“A health care provider recommended this coffee shop while I was waiting for a friend at the hospital. Am so glad I tried it out! delicious muffin that was fresh out of the oven and a tasty iced vanilla latte! highly recommend“

“Great cup of coffee. I really needed it and the service was fast and efficient. I can’t remember the gals name behind the bar, but when she saw me in my uniform repeatedly glancing at my watch, she must have figured I was running behind. She quickly got my stuff together and eased my stress. Great service.
Also, the bathroom was very clean“