When the COVID-19 pandemic started, one of the things I missed most about normal life was being able to study in cafes. The ambiance, coffee, and atmosphere were great for keeping me productive! Now that cafes are back open and Ontario’s vaccine passport is in place, I figured I would share a few of my favourite cafes to study at:
1. Happy Goat Coffee Company – 317 Wilbrod St, Ottawa, ON K1N 7W4
If you go to uOttawa, or live downtown, this cafe is perfect for you. It’s only a few minutes away from campus and the staff are always really friendly! Currently, they’re selling Maverick donuts, which pair really well with their lattes.
2. Equator Coffee NAC – 1 Elgin St, Ottawa, ON K1P 5W1
This cafe is my personal favourite cafe in Ottawa. They have top-tier coffee, a great selection of baked goods, free wifi, washrooms, and outlets to charge your laptop while you study! I also absolutely love the atmosphere, and the view from the NAC is gorgeous. The Westboro location is also great if that’s closer to you!
3. Drip House – 340B Parkdale Ave, Ottawa, ON K1Y 2W5
This hidden gem in Hintonburg is great for reading. They don’t allow laptops during peak hours, so if you need one to study, then you’d be better off picking another location. But their coffee is great, and they have more substantial food options, like sandwiches and salads!
4. Planet Coffee – 24a York St, Ottawa, ON K1N 1K2
Located in Byward Market, this cafe is walking distance to uOttawa! They have coffee, tea, baked goods and vegan options. If the weather is warm, you could also try studying on their outdoor terrace!
5. Arlington Five – 5 Arlington Ave, Ottawa, ON K2P 1C1
This cafe is small, but it’s been very quiet every time I’ve gone. They have really good pastries and a cute rustic atmosphere. Although this location isn’t that close to uOttawa, I think it’s worth the drive!
6. The Ministry of Coffee – 274 Elgin St, Ottawa, ON K2P 1M2
This cafe has amazing espresso, which is perfect the day after pulling an all-nighter finishing a lab report! The decor at this location is cozy and they have time-limited free wifi. If you’re willing to walk a little, it’s close to Parliament.
If you’re looking for a new go-to study spot, I’d highly recommend any of these 6 cafes. Of course, studying on campus is also an option, but a change in scenery can be fun too. Happy studying!