© With Axie
Photo: Tourisme Outaouais
Imagine yourself sitting in a comfortable chair, the sound of coffee machines in the background and rhythmic instrumental music setting the mood. The aroma of hot, flavourful coffee rises from the mug in front of you. You bring it to your lips to take a first sip of the warm, comforting liquid. Its taste envelops you as the coffee releases its notes of caramel and hazelnut. This is the definition of comfort. This is what awaits you in the cafés of the Outaouais.
Just steps away from Gatineau Park, Biscotti & cie is the place to be in the heart of Old Chelsea Square for a well-deserved break after an active day in the park. With family and friends or as a couple, treat yourself to a tea, a coffee, a hot chocolate or even a delicious pastry. Inside, there’s a nice mezzanine for those who want a comfortable space; outside, there’s a small garden with chairs where you can enjoy the fresh air. Hungry? Try one of their divine pizzas!
Located in the former Provincial Bank of Canada building, the Café British shines thanks to its architecture, a well-preserved reminder of another era. A great place for early risers, the British Café is also a great place to go in the evening to discover local musical artists, with an alcoholic (or non-alcoholic) drink in hand! The café also has an extensive collection of board games.
How about taking a coffee and snack break in a space designed just for relaxation? Head over to Canevas and treat yourself to something sweet at Charlotte Macarons, a charming artisanal French patisserie. Savor an exceptional cup of coffee, enjoy delicate macarons, and sample fine pastries made with local ingredients. Escape to Paris for a moment and treat yourself.
In Old Hull, Maison du café – Happy Goat Coffee is a top pick for specialty coffee lovers. The beans are carefully selected and roasted in small batches to preserve all their freshness. The warm atmosphere suits a work or study session just as well as a break with friends, with a carefully crafted drink and a little bite in hand.
A hot drink in hand and sweet aromas enveloping you—that’s pure bliss, isn’t it? Awaken your senses and let yourself be captivated by Jenni Tea, an experiential tea house that invites you to discover new flavors and sensory experiences. Elegantly decorated, the establishment offers a wonderful variety of hot drinks ranging from espresso to artisanal herbal teas, including cappuccino, chai, and matcha lattes. Discover their exquisite artisanal pastries, their homemade fruit and cream desserts, their macarons, tartlets, and sweet cookies! Now that’s variety!
Stop by Maison Oddo for a comforting cup of coffee and more! Indulge in delicious artisanal breads, succulent pastries, and homemade treats that are sure to charm you. This bakery has everything to make your mouth water! Savor the moment while gathering with family or friends, enjoying local products carefully prepared by a passionate team.
If you visit Bobino Bagel, you absolutely must try the delicious Bobiccino, a double espresso with maple syrup, smooth milk foam and cinnamon. A variety of smooth coffee options and excellent local products are at the heart of this first bagel factory in the Outaouais!
In Gatineau, Moca Loca is a popular and well-established destination with several locations throughout the city. Each has its own distinguished atmosphere, but they all serve the same great European-style, certified organic and fair trade coffees for which the chain is known. And did we mention the scrumptious panini and decadent cakes? You’d be crazy not to try them!
Take the Petite Nation route to the village of Saint-André-Avellin, where Kîsisam Pâtisserie serves pastries inspired by the Indigenous roots of its chef and owner, Dominique Lalonde. Its name means “the one who bakes with fire” in Oji-Cree. Her creations highlight the flavours of the boreal forest. Settle in with a craft coffee and a fine pastry, or opt for a sweet or savoury meal. Before you head back, make a detour to the corner dedicated to Indigenous art and to the gourmet grocery products with local flavours.
Not far away, in Montebello, La Belle Pâtissière draws its inspiration from the atmosphere of Parisian cafés. Take a seat for a coffee or a tea and treat yourself to desserts that are as indulgent as they are decadent. The bakery is also known for its custom cakes, made by appointment with its cake designer: a great idea to keep in mind for a birthday or celebration. It’s the perfect sweet stop to round out a day in the Petite Nation.
Whether for a chat with friends over a good caffeinated beverage, a gourmet outing during a stay in the region or simply a treat for yourself, these Outaouais cafés get top marks! NOTE: There’s a good chance that your first visit won’t be your last. You have been warned!
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For more great places to eat and drink, check out these downtown Gatineau restaurants!
I’m a nature lover and a food lover. My happiness is found in breathtaking landscapes, mouth-watering dishes and all the new colourful experiences. I travelled the world before coming back to my hometown: I missed the Outaouais so much. What if we rediscovered it together?