Arbutus Coffee is my new favorite coffee place in Kits. It’s tucked away from the hustle and bustle of West 4th and Broadway, and feels just like what a neighborhood coffee shop should. Located on the tree lined corner of 6th and Arbutus, this cafe is a definite local gem.

They serve a wide variety of food and drink, both breakfast staples (cinnamon buns, scones) and lunch items (their paninis are spectacular). Their homemade banana bread is definitely work writing home about: gooey, sweet, and addictive. I’d come back for this alone. They also have some decadent desert treats: brownies, cake, pies … all tasty! The coffee itself is perfect, nothing too memorable or robust, but it’s always hot and it always hits the spot.

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Dark and rustic, Arbutus Coffee is the kind of coffee shop that feels like it’s been there forever. In fact, it probably has. There is a thin layer of dust and coffee dust that covers everything, and I’m half certain that they leave it there on purpose. It feels like a part of the decor. The floors are wood. The tables and chairs mismatched. There are photos and paintings and chalkboards covering the walls. And the whole place always smells delightful. This place has ambience in spades.

The coffee shop is fairly small, meaning seating can be hard to find – especially on busier mornings. During fairer weather, there are a few tables and chairs located outside. Power outlets inside can be difficult to track down, so it’s best to come with your laptop pre powered. Wifi is complimentary.

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