Words by Lois MacorolPhotos by Chris Jay

Cook Street Village is one of those rare places that is just pure magic— to be within walking distance of everything the city has to offer, yet still be able to breathe in the scent of the ocean, is just absolutely special. Nestled right by Dallas Beach and Beacon Hill Park, you’ll find Cook Street Village tucked away in this beautiful, charming, tree-lined neighbourhood that’s brimming with history. With its array of coffee houses and bakeries, patios, restaurants, and local independent shops, there’s always something for both locals and visitors alike.

Whether you’re looking to caffeinate and start a weekend of productivity right, or just wanting to enjoy catching up with a friend over some iced lattes, you’re bound to find something that suits your fancy in this neighbourhood that welcomes both coffee fiends and non-coffee drinkers alike.

Moka House

Moka House is one of those places that’s perfect for when you want to be alone, but not too alone. Pick up a beverage, chat with a friendly barista, or say hello to the stranger sitting at the next socially-distanced table to yours. Or find yourself a seat at the patio and spend the morning people-watching in the heart of Cook Street Village. You do you.

For the non-coffee drinkers, Moka House has a good selection of teas and tea lattes that come in both hot and iced options. Try their iced golden turmeric latte on your next stroll to the beach!

345 Cook StOpen 8 AM to 6 PM daily@cookstvillagemokahouse

Morning People

The smell of breakfast grub fresh off the griddle of this whimsy food truck will certainly turn you into a morning person if you aren’t already one. One of the latest additions to Cook Street Village’s food scene, Morning People serves quality food made with locally-sourced ingredients and love. (Check their Instagram if you don’t believe me.) Their menu items are not just fun to say out loud but also very well-priced— their $9 breakfast sandwich, for example, is called “I Just Had the Best Dream,” and for just one more loonie you can enjoy it with a freshly brewed cup of Caffe Fantastico coffee. With their fluorescent pink truck, courtyard seats, and friendly crew, Morning People is sure to get your day off to a good start.

325 Cook StOpen 8 AM to 3 PM or until sold out, Wednesdays through Sundays@morningpeoplefoodco

Bubby Rose’s Bakery

With two locations along Cook Street—the Nosherie, which is right in the heart of the Village, and the Cafe, which is further up by Cook and Meares— open as early as 7am, bleary-eyed early birds can count on Bubby Rose’s to serve not just fantastic coffee but also scrumptious sweets and delightful savory goods that can be easily taken to go. Treat yourself to one of their award-winning cinnamon rolls, or snack on a peanut butter chutzpah.

Bubby Rose’s Bakery & Nosherie101-240 Cook StandBubby Rose’s Bakery & Cafe1022 Cook StBoth locations open 7 AM to 5 PM daily@bubbyrosesbakery

The Hot and Cold Cafe

This hole in the wall eatery specializes in slow food served fast. Proudly serving Fernwood Coffee and offering a range of wholesome, nourishing selections for every dietary requirement, you’ll find this spot is always bumpin’. Be sure to try one of the Hot and Cold Cafe’s delicious sandwiches, or better yet, make it a combo with their famed vegan yellow coconut curry.

313 Cook StOpen 10 AM to 5 PM, Tuesdays through Sundays@thehotandcoldcafe

Although these next few places are not right in the heart of Cook Street Village, they are still a short frolic away and definitely worth stopping at!

Cottage Bakery and Cafe

Hidden away in the lower level of a character building that most may only find by accident (a happy one for sure!), Cottage Bakery and Cafe is a Fairfield gem that locals love for their warm, welcoming, and unpretentious atmosphere, excellent Caffe Fantastico coffee, breakfast fare, and irresistible sweet treats. Just a short stroll from the Moss Street Market held every Saturday, let the scent of freshly baked goods lead you down to Cottage’s below-ground patio and come in for a cup of joe and a croissant… or five, maybe?

1267 Fairfield RdOpen 9 AM to 4 PM, Thursdays through Saturdays@cottagebakeryandcafe

Bear and Joey

Perhaps the hippest place to grab coffee and brunch at the moment, Bear and Joey is never not a busy spot. With its trendy location, Insta-perfect aesthetic, and colourful, health-focused menu offerings, it has quickly gained a loyal following. Don’t be discouraged by the long lineups though, as you are sure to be welcomed by friendly staff (if not the owner himself) who are focused on solely delivering a different, elevated cafe experience. Read more about Bear and Joey in this Tasting Victoria article.

1025 Cook StOpen 8 AM to 3 PM every day except Tuesdays@bearandjoeycafe

Fern Cafe and Bakery

This one may be a stretch as it’s technically already in the Fernwood neighbourhood, but since it’s located right on Cook and North Park, let’s just say it counts too! This 100% plant-based, mom-and-pop cafe and bakery is definitely worth a mention. Vegan or not, you’re bound to find something delightful that’ll keep you coming back to try more. Come for one of their expertly crafted beverages or irresistible sweet treats (those Cocoa Puff squares are borderline dangerous…ly delicious), or be pleasantly surprised by their plant-based dishes (seriously, what’s in their chickun and bacun, and how can plants taste that good?!). If you haven’t tried Fern Cafe and Bakery yet, well, this is the sign you’ve been waiting for.

1-1115 North Park StOpen 9 AM to 5 PM daily@ferncafeandbakery

Hope this small list gets you excited and inspired for your next upcoming weekend! I’d love to hear about your experiences, favorite new finds, or places that I missed and should include— DM me on Instagram @loisydaily. Thanks for letting me share!