20 Best Cafes in Nanaimo

“On a brief trip to Nanaimo I was so pleased“

“⁣ Tucked just off the main strip at Departure Bay Beach is: Felice Cafe ⁣ There’s so much character inside you can’t help but grab a seat with a hot coffee (americano for me this time) and take in all the personalized touches. I had a chance to chat with the owner, who shared that from opening up the space with renovations, to the hand-drawn details and décor, he and his partner did it all themselves. ⁣ If you haven’t been yet, head over to Departure Bay Beach, pop into Felice Café, and treat yourself to a hot bevvy and a cozy spot to sit!“

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

“My family visited Nanaimo during recent trip to Vancouver. Before checking out of our hotel, we stopped by this café for coffee, an egg salad sandwich, and a bagel, and everything was delicious. More than anything, we loved the warm and cozy atmosphere with beautiful Christmas decorations. The staff were very friendly, and thank you so much for giving the kids jelly as well.“

“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.“

“If you’re in Nanaimo and looking for the perfect breakfast spot, look no further. This place is a total standout — every dish is made with love and proudly showcases local ingredients. You can truly taste the difference in quality and freshness from the first bite.“

“This place is great!!! Food is awesome, service is great and reasonable prices! Highly recommended“

“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!“

“This is our go to coffee shop! Great cinnamon buns and muffins! Lovely atmosphere and staff!“

“Bocca is a simply darling little shop. I ordered the strawberry matcha iced latte and it was super delicious and photo worthy. May gave me wonderful service. She was super friendly and knowledgeable, running the cash and making the drinks quickly. There is all sorts of local art and jewellery for sale in there which makes it feel extra homey and cute.“

“I spent an hour or so there drinking amazingly wonderful assam organic tea - I’m British so I know a cup of tea I think. It was the best tea ever and the staff were super friendly and helpful - highly recto end plus food looked fab - will be back - special place and away from the good court! Near washrooms though. Great seat. Go there or be square - across from Sephora David“

“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.“

“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!“

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

“The BEST cheesecake ever! Hawaiian highly suggested! Great service and was able to take it to go very easy! Can’t wait to travel back to Nanaimo and get another slice“

“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“

“Had great service from the three ladies there today! Handled the busy line really well.
I got a chai with gingerbread (was highly recommended!) and husband got gingerbread mocha and shared an almond croissant straight from the oven. So good!!“

“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!“

“Before we arrived I was saying I'd love to get a Nanaimo Bar Gelato, hoping they had one along the waterfront and this place did! Very excited, but also lived up to exactly what I hoped it would be. My mouth is watering just thinking about it“