Do you hear that? Textbooks shuffling, pencils sharpening, office hours booming, and stress levels rising. Exam season is upon us.
But fear not! You will survive your final exams and papers, just like first semester—but let’s make this season a little more exciting.
Do you feel cooped up on campus? Tired of looking for open study spots in busy UBC libraries? Can’t seem to escape the gloom of your dorm room?
For your next study adventure, try embarking on a journey to one of these cafes! Not only will you get to explore Vancouver, but these cafes are also totally Insta-worthy and will make you want to stay—so that you won’t insta-leave your studies for tomorrow.
Olive + Ruby
Why I love it here:
This is the most aesthetic cafe I’ve ever laid eyes on. It’s nice and cozy, with colourful walls, a collection of succulents, cute cacti, and an indoor garden chair. They also have incredible smoothies, acai bowls, and avocado toast—the perfect healthy food to boost your brain power.
Tip:
This place can be quite busy, so if you can’t find space, there are other cafes within a minute’s walk!
Address:
Bus directions from UBC:
Hop on the 14 or 99 bus, and ride until you reach Bayswater/MacDonald Street. (~30 minutes commute time)
Cartems Donuts
Why I love it here:
It’s a spacious, bright, and beautiful place to get you in the zone. They also have the cutest donuts that make you want to collect ‘em all. There’s plenty of table space for some hardcore studying or collaborative group work!
Tip:
There may be a maximum stay time of 2 hours on weekdays—keep your eyes out for the sign.
Address:
Bus directions from UBC:
Ride the 14 bus until you reach Balaclava Street, and walk a minute. (~25 minutes commute time)
Breka Bakery and Cafe
Why I love it here:
This cafe is open 24/7 (and even open on holidays!), so I go here whenever I need a li'l late-night cramming. This place is cozy and cute, but what’s my favourite part? Their food. They serve sandwiches, cakes, pastries, coffee, soup, you name it...and they won't destroy your wallet.
Tip:
If you want to plug in and use your laptop, secure a spot upstairs.
Address:
Bus directions from UBC:
Hop on the 4 or the 84 bus, get off at Highbury/Alma Street, and walk a minute. (~20 minutes commute time)
49th Parallel and Lucky’s Donuts
Why I love it here:
This place is like the Cactus Club of cafes. I feel classy the moment I sit down with a latte and a donut. They have plenty of table space, well-lit interiors, and awesome service!
Tip:
There’s an ‘outdoor’ seating area for you to soak in the sunlight!
Address:
Bus directions from UBC:
Ride the 4, 44, or 84 bus until Balsam/Arbutus Street, and walk 2 minutes. (~30 minutes commute time)
Moii Cafe
Why I love it here:
This place is cozy, cheerful, and spacious at the same time. This cafe is beside Broadway-City Hall Station, a central location accessible to people whether they’re from East Van or Richmond! Plus—their savoury crepes are just amazing.
Tip:
With a bubble tea, a crepe, and some glasses of cucumber water, you’ll be fuelled for hours.
Address:
Bus directions from UBC:
Take the 99 bus until Cambie Street and walk west a little. It’s right up the corner! (~45 minutes commute time)
Prado Cafe
Why I love it here:
It’s a cozy place that always makes me feel warm during chilly seasons. I love the aesthetic of their wooden tables and teal-coloured cups. Their hot cocoa is my favourite—and it’s totally Insta-worthy with the cream design on the surface!
Tip:
They serve poached eggs with bacon. What more can you ask for?
Address:
Bus directions from UBC:
Take the 84, 4, or 44 bus until you reach 4th Ave and Fir Street! (~35 minutes commute time)
Those are my all-time favourites, but...
Here are more aesthetic cafes, yet to be crossed off my bucket list:
- Le Marché St. George
- The Garden Strathcona
- Dalina
- Bump N’ Grind Cafe
- Kafka’s Coffee and Tea
- Matchstick Coffee Roasters
- The Birds and the Beets
Wow...I don’t know about you, but I love this city. What are exams, again?
