Coffee shops provide rest, caffeine, hydration, calories and socialization.
But what makes a coffee stop cyclist-friendly? Ample bicycle parking spots, a variety of food and beverage, and of course, washrooms (and a big win, if the staff doesn’t hate you for clip-clopping around in your cleats).
While there are certainly a few cyclist-friendly coffee stops within Vancouver proper, this time we’re exploring just outside the city in neighbouring municipalities.
Sanctuary Café
Arguably the cycling hot spot in Richmond, Sanctuary is exactly that: a sanctuary for cyclists. There is plentiful bike parking, great coffee, and an ever-evolving food and pastry selection. Ownership is a huge supporter of the cycling community and it shows, as droves of cyclists congregate at Sanctuary on sunny days.
Address: 13020 No 2 Rd #160, Richmond
United Strangers
On the Mount Seymour Parkway bike route, United Strangers is a popular café for cyclists and non- cyclists alike. They double as a corner store, selling a cute assortment of coffee accessories, craft goods and food products. United Strangers is a good stop before or after a Seymour attempt – maybe even both.
Address: 2740 Mt Seymour Pkwy, North Vancouver
Café Orso
Sometimes you’ve just had too many Honey’s donuts. Café Orso is just up the street from Honey’s in Deep Cove, and they provide refreshments that are just as delicious. The staff is always friendly, and it is a popular stop for cyclists. The only caveat is that they are situated on a steeper section of road; make sure your bike is in an easy gear, or else leaving Orso might be uncomfortable.
Address: 4316 Gallant Ave, North Vancouver
Petra’s by L’Aromas
With its very large patio and indoor seating capacity Petra’s is great for larger groups of cyclists. They not only have delicious pastries but sandwiches/meals as well. This is a popular stop for any cyclist in the Delta area.
Address: 1200 56 Street Delta (Tsawwassen)
Blacksmith Bakery
The pastries and food are excellent at Blacksmith. Bike parking spots aren’t readily available on the exterior of the business, but there are many spots close by within eyesight. Riders beware: this stop gets very busy during the summer. Well, to be fair, most businesses in Fort Langley are.
Address: 9190 Church St, Langley
Brian Lim likes to ride bikes (sometimes with his camera). He's a complete and consummate amateur - both in cycling and in photography, and says he doesn't take himself seriously - and neither should you. Lim wants to share his love of cycling, so please reach out if you want to talk! You'll find him on Instagram at @wheelsandwhisky.
