Banff, Alberta, a resort town within Banff National Park, isn’t just known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities. This picturesque mountain town is also home to an evolving coffee culture that appreciates the balance of quality, atmosphere, and sustainable practices. Over the years, Banff has cultivated an impressive collection of coffee shops, each offering unique blends and brewing methods, along with cozy, work-friendly environments. The town’s love for coffee goes beyond just a morning wake-me-up or a casual meet-up; it’s a vital part of the local culture. From the artisanal blends of Banff Roasting Company to the fair trade brews at Whitebark Cafe, the coffee scene here caters to everyone, from the casual sipper to the discerning coffee connoisseur.
How we selected these coffee shops
We’ve considered several factors in our selection of the best coffee shops in Banff. These include:
- The quality of their coffee, giving preference to shops that source high-quality, ethically sourced beans.
- Online customer reviews and ratings, as they provide valuable insights into the overall customer experience.
- The ambiance of the coffee shop, considering if it is a suitable environment for working or socializing.
Our Top Picks
Based on the above criteria, we’ve come up with a list of top picks for various categories:
- Best for work: Whitebark Cafe
- Best for meetings: Evelyn’s Coffee Bar
- Best patio: Banff Roasting Company
- Best coffee: Whitebark Cafe.
Featured Coffee Shops
Whitebark Cafe
⭐ 4.6 out of 985 Reviews
📍 401 Banff Ave, Banff, AB T1L 1A9, Canada
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Welcome to the Whitebark Cafe, a standout Alberta destination firmly established since 2014. Our independent, specialty coffee house has claimed the title of ‘Best of the Bow: Coffee’ for consecutive years, largely thanks to our unwavering commitment to exceptional coffee, superior service, and eco-conscious operations. Our menu revolves around freshly homemade goods, proud of its wide range of options for every guest—whether you’re on-the-go or going nowhere. Visit us in the heart of the Banff Aspen Lodge and enjoy diverse offerings from our award-winning Imara Espresso to our locally-acclaimed cheesecake, always paired with memorable mountain views. Coffee isn’t our only passion - explore our carefully selected wine and beer list, savory dishes, and a healthy organic juice selection. At the Whitebark Cafe, every cup, meal, and experience is crafted with dedication and your satisfaction in mind.
Banff Roasting Company
⭐ 4.9 out of 42 Reviews
📍 141 Eagle Crescent, Banff, AB T1L 1C6, Canada
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Located amid the stunning landscapes of Banff, the Banff Roasting Company is your go-to source for artisanal coffee small-batched roasted with 100% Arabica beans. Our coffee is roasted in the Rockies and we are proud to retain the unique taste influenced by our magnificent mountain location. Not just limited to Banff, our coffee is shipped worldwide, testament to our outstanding quality. We have numerous establishments serving our delightful coffee, with locations scattered throughout Banff and Canmore. Our website gives you the option to browse through our best sellers, our entire collection, and even our medium-roasted coffee for those desiring a vibrant but balanced taste. Try Banff Roasting Company coffee and experience the Rockies through every sip.
Good Earth Coffeehouse - Banff
⭐ 4.3 out of 729 Reviews
📍 333 Banff Ave, Banff, AB T1L 1B1, Canada
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Evelyn’s Coffee Bar
⭐ 4.2 out of 816 Reviews
📍 215 Banff Ave, Banff, AB T1L 1A4, Canada
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I am delighted to announce that Evelyn’s Coffee Bar, a staple in Banff, Alberta since 1992, is getting a digital makeover! We are diligently working to enrich our online presence with a new website that not only showcases our exquisite menu, but also includes a dedicated shop page for ease and convenience. While we are buzzing with anticipation to launch this, we encourage customers to stay connected via our mailing list or social media for updates. As ever, we are grateful for your continued support and look forward to continuing to serve you unforgettable coffee experiences in the years to come.
The Happy Camper Café & Bar
⭐ 4.3 out of 24 Reviews
📍 545 Banff Ave #1B5, Banff, AB T1L 1B5, Canada
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Welcome to Canalta Lodge, your gateway to exploring the majestic mountains, rivers, and gondolas of North America’s most magnificent playground, Banff National Park. At our lodge, experience the comfort of our contemporary rooms, indulge in our diverse range of amenities like hot tubs, fire pits, and daily housekeeping, complemented by a complimentary hot breakfast buffet. After a day of adventure, unwind in our intimate courtyard or grab a delicious bite at our lobby café. Treat yourself to various stay experiences and specials at an incredible value while making unforgettable memories. Explore our photo gallery for a glimpse of what awaits you, or better yet, come experience Banff for yourself at Canalta Lodge, where adventure is inspired and memories are made.
Banff National Perk
⭐ 4.5 out of 184 Reviews
📍 220 Bear St, Banff, AB T1L 1A1, Canada
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Welcome to Banff National Perk CoffeeHouse, where we have been “a local’s favorite since 1988”. Our store is situated at 220 Bear Street, Banff. We offer a splendid selection of specialty coffees, freshly baked items, and delectable treats to accompany your drink of choice. Our food menu ranges from breakfast sandwiches and bagels to lunch sandwiches and wraps, and includes various soups and desserts. If you’re planning on going hiking or sightseeing, we also provide convenient box lunches. Whether you’re staying to relish your meal in our cozy setting, or grabbing your order to go, we’re here to serve you. We operate year-round, ensuring a warm cup of coffee is always ready for you, regardless of the season.
Diving into Banff’s Rich History
Banff, located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies within the province of Alberta, is a small town with a population of about 8,000 people. Known for its scenic beauty, it is a major tourist destination attracting millions of visitors each year.
- The town was named in 1884 after Banffshire, Scotland, the birthplace of two of the original directors of the Canadian Pacific Railway.
- Banff National Park, established in 1885, is the oldest national park in Canada.
- The town has a rich history of coffee, dating back to the early 20th century when the first coffee shop opened its doors. This ignited Banff’s love affair with coffee, and today, the town is home to a vibrant coffee culture.
Best Coffee Spots in Banff
Banff boasts several unique coffee shops where both locals and tourists gather to savor a cup of coffee and enjoy the stunning surroundings. Here are the top six coffee shops in Banff.
- Wild Flour Bakery: Known for its fresh pastries and delicious coffee, Wild Flour Bakery is a local favorite. The café provides a cozy atmosphere and a view of the mountains.
- Whitebark Cafe: This café is loved for its artisanal coffee and its commitment to sustainability. Every cup of coffee here is made with organic beans and served in compostable cups.
- Evelyn’s Coffee Bar: One of Banff’s oldest coffee shops, Evelyn’s Coffee Bar is famous for its home-roasted coffee and friendly staff.
- Rave Coffee: With a wide selection of single-origin beans, Rave Coffee is the go-to spot for coffee connoisseurs.
- Banff Roasting Company: This locally owned café serves hand-roasted coffee in a rustic and warm setting.
- Jump Start Coffee: Known for its delicious breakfast and fast service, Jump Start Coffee is a perfect place to start your day.
The Allure of Banff’s Coffee Scene
Banff’s coffee scene is as vibrant and inviting as the town itself. The unique mix of historical and contemporary coffee shops provides a welcoming atmosphere for both locals and tourists. It’s a testament to Banff’s longstanding relationship with coffee. If you ever find yourself in this beautiful town, don’t forget to check out these amazing coffee shops and find your own favorite. The rich aroma of coffee mixed with the breathtaking views of the Rockies is an experience you won’t want to miss.
