Looking for that special place to do work besides your room or the library this term? Look no further! Below are the best cafes in Waterloo that will give you everything you are looking for in terms of quiet, comfort, and deliciousness.
Leaving your apartment in the winter term is a tough thing to do, let alone leaving to go to a class. This list guarantees that you will most likely find one of these cafes close to home allowing you to travel no further then a bus ride or short walk away. It allows you to find that special place – besides your room (in my case) – that will provide you with something that is bigger than the four walls of your bedroom.
If you are looking for a café in close walking distance to the university, then Balzac’s is the café for you this term! Balzac’s has a communal table, smaller two person tables and stools that give you the view of people watching on Philip St. Balzac’s also has unique drinks that you have to try, like the Café Canadien, which is a latte with maple syrup! Along with your beverage, there are plenty of desserts to try. Balzac’s has a small café feel, while feeling professional, allowing you to get your work done. If you are looking for a café that is on the quieter side I would highly recommend this one, most people are doing work on their computers and the atmosphere is very calm.
The Princess Café is the warm and cozy neighborhood café in Uptown. If you are looking for that welcoming, small-town feel this is the café for you. They also have a full menu of delicious sandwiches or amazing snacks for while you are working. If you are up for a movie after a day of hard work, you can walk two steps and you are inside the Princess Cinemas to catch a flick (or two).
3. Death Valley’s Little Brother
Death Valley’s Little Brother is the café to go to if you are looking for that exposed wood and want to feel like you are in downtown Toronto. It has one communal table and then a whole row of tables that fit two people. It is also in the heart of Uptown, which is surrounded by tons of cute shops. This has a darker and somber feel to it allowing you to feel relaxed. Along with your coffee there are delicious treats such as their amazing scones, which they are more than happy to heat up for you!
Settlement Co. is the perfect place to go if you are having a meeting, want a nice place for lunch or a place to do work. Comfy benches are available if you want a more casual spot, or tables and chairs are also available. Settlement has an energized feel to it, with its bright, open space and plants it creates a peaceful environment. They have a love for toast at settlement (which I personally feel is the perfect snack), you can get your toast with basically anything you want on it. It is the perfect place if you want good, simple and delicious food. I went to Settlement Co. with work and was able to complete it with the help from my Avenue Chick sandwich (avocado, chicken and mayo) with a side of carrot cake, it was all delicious. Later, I got a flat white that was strong, just like they are supposed to be. Another plus is that the staff are great! They insist that you get settled down and they will bring you your food once it’s ready. Settlement is definitely my favourite coffee shop to escape to during this winter term.
Side note: if you are like me and always care about what the bathroom looks like in cafes and restaurant you are in luck! Settlement has newly renovated single bathrooms. ;)
*All photos taken by author of this article; Emma Mahoney