My Favourite Coffee Shops & Cafés in Northern Ontario
For me, a road trip isn't complete without stopping for coffee, and while Tim Hortons and McDonald’s will do in a pinch, I prefer to explore the cute and cozy coffee shops instead. Over time, I’ve started saving my favourite coffee shops across Northern Ontario, and these are places I genuinely look forward to revisiting and always recommend when someone asks where to stop. This list is exactly that: my go-to cafés for great coffee, cozy spaces, and small-town charm, all across Northern Ontario.
Sudbury & North Bay
Kuppajo in Sudbury has been my go-to for an oat milk cappuccino for a long time. They are really good at making esspresso, and that hits just right. The vibe is so cozy, and the cinnamon bun muffin is one of the best I’ve ever had.
In North Bay, I’m obsessed with The Opera Bakery Cafe. I highly recommend stopping in for lunch, grabbing the sandwich-and-soup combo, and pairing it with your favourite way to drink coffee.
Northeastern Ontario
As you drive up Highway 11 into Northeastern Ontario, there’s no shortage of charm. The Lavender Fox is a charming and whimsical tea room in the midst of an old mining town.
Chat Noir Books & Games in Temiskaming Shores has the best of both worlds: coffee and books! Order yourself a coffee ‘for here’, sit and relax and enjoy your newest novel.
Timmins has Ciao Sandwich Co., serving the freshest sandwiches on focaccia and offering a full espresso bar with all the seasonal favourites.
Further North West, Back to the Grind in Kapuskasing is a classic, cute small-town café spot where you can just relax and enjoy a slow morning.
Manitoulin Island
As you cross the swing bridge onto Manitoulin Island, you can’t go wrong with any location of Loco Beanz. It’s a long-time local favourite representing the island.
The Mutchmor and Providence Peace Café has the perfect spots to grab a cup and enjoy the island’s famous Providence Bay Beach. Plus, take a look around the shop; you’ll find treasures from local artisans.
Algoma Country
As you drive along Highway 17 into Central Northern Ontario, there are no shortages of cute and cozy coffee spots.
The Little Brew, located just off the highway in Massey, offers Espanola Coffee Roasters' coffee, sandwiches, and treats. They have a fun little book nook area or play a board game with friends.
Beautiful Stranger in Elliot Lake is a new, charming and vibey coffee shop. A young couple just moved to Elliot Lake and was missing a good espresso bar. Highly recommend stopping in.
The Roasted Bean in Thessalon is a must-stop for coffee lovers. This cozy shop is filled with antique furniture and offers delicious sandwiches and festive flavours. The Copper Bean in Bruce Mines is the sister company to The Roasted Bean, but with the cutest dog-friendly patio!
In Sault Ste. Marie, Kasdan Co. is a welcoming, modern cafe that offers the freshest and most delightful flavours of donuts! Come in to enjoy a hot coffee and perhaps pick out a few donuts to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Then there’s the classic road trip stop at the Voyageur Inn in Batchawana Bay. Grab a CAMP coffee, along with their famous apple fritters. They are honestly the size of your head!
Northwestern Ontario
Another favourite (and a great way to support a good cause) is The Habit Coffee & Bakeshop. Located in a converted old church, with volunteer-based staff, and all the proceeds go towards helping the community.
Silver Islet General Store is quaint, charming, and worth the stop. Located in an Instagram-worthy historic building, it offers a one-stop shop for everything (literally). They offer local artisan products, cute clothing, coffee bags, and ice cream. The best part is the charming Tea Room, which serves delicious coffee, pastries, and pizza!
If there’s one thing I’ve learned from exploring Northern Ontario, it’s that the best adventures usually come with really good coffee along the way. I love making it apart of the road trip, and experience, and soaking it all in.
I hope this list gives you a few new places to add to your must-visit list. And if you have another favourite Northern Ontario coffee shop I should check out next, you already know I’m all ears! Comment below!
