International Coffee Day is coming up quickly on October 1 st. This is a day to recognize and appreciate the coffee industry, including the farmers, roasters, and baristas. It’s a chance to explore new flavours, support local coffee shops, and appreciate the rich culture surrounding one of the world’s most beloved beverages. As a major coffee connoisseur myself, I’ve spent a lot of time exploring Kelowna’s cafes. From the perfect espresso shot to cozy spots that are perfect for getting work done, Kelowna’s coffee scene is amazing.

Keep reading to learn about the best spots in Kelowna to grab a caffeinated beverage and a variety of ways you can celebrate International Coffee Day and support your local coffee shops!


Craft 42 Roasters


Craft 42 Roasters is located near downtown, just off the Okanagan Rail Trail, making it the perfect spot to take a break. When you drink one of Craft 42’s coffees, you can truly feel and taste the care and detail that goes into each drink. If you’re seeking a different way to appreciate coffee, consider partaking in Craft 42’s guided coffee tastings. You will try different roasts and engage in conversation in an intimate setting guided by a knowledgeable staff member.

My go-to drink: Any of their seasonal drink offerings!


Slowside Coffee at Sprout Bread


Sprout Bread is known for its exceptional sourdough and baking, but tucked away inside, you’ll find Slowside, a specialty brew bar. Slowside strives to create well-crafted coffee using intentionally and internationally sourced beans with both traditional and experimental brewing methods. Their menu includes everything from pour-overs to siphon brews, taking your senses on a journey through different flavour profiles and regions of the world, all without leaving Kelowna! The pastries here are top notch, making for a perfect pairing with your coffee.

My go-to drink: Espresso Tonic 

 

Bright Jenny


Bright Jenny roasts their beans in-house, each roast offering unique and vibrant tasting notes, which are available for purchase at the cafe. Not sure which beans to purchase? Take advantage of their coffee flights where you have a chance to try a variety of their drip coffees! Their Laurel Ave location provides a cozy and comfortable study and workspace in the back. Getting work done is always a bit easier when you have a delicious coffee to get you through it! They also have a new location on Kirschner Road.

My go-to drink: Oat Milk Flat White with Sugar-Free Vanilla 

 

Anarchy Coffee Roasters


You may recognize Anarchy Coffee Roasters from the farmers market, but did you know they now have their own location? Embodying a punk-rock vibe, Anarchy’s on-site small batch roasted coffee is energizing and full of character, with a bold name to match. Located on Baron Rd, you can take a break from your busy day and stop by and grab a coffee to go then head to Mission Creek for a relaxing stroll. 

My go-to drink: Half Sweet Mocha 

 

Pulp Fiction Coffee House


Pulp Fiction Coffee House, located downtown, is truly a one-of-a-kind cafe, providing a unique and retro ambience. What truly sets this cafe apart is its atmosphere - it feels like a coffee shop, museum, and bookstore all in one. Here, you can savour a warm cup of coffee while immersing yourself in a space filled with pulp fiction art, vintage antiques, and rare books. Whether you’re catching up with friends, getting some work done, or just looking to relax, Pulp Fiction provides an inviting space.

My go-to order: Iced Americano

 
Bean Scene Coffee Works


A Kelowna staple, Bean Scene Coffee Works has been a local favourite for over a decade- and for good reason. As pioneers of the third-wave coffee movement, Bean Scene is known for its perfected latte art and roasting exceptional coffee onsite. You can also purchase bags of beans for at-home coffee brewing. With three locations to choose from, each offering a slightly different vibe, you’ll always find a place to suit your mood.

My go-to order: Oat milk cappuccino 

 

Ways to Celebrate International Coffee Day in Kelowna


●    Try a unique coffee experience like a guided tasting or a coffee flight at Craft 42 or Bright Jenny
●    Buy coffee beans from Anarchy, Craft 42, Bright Jenny, or Bean Scene enjoy at home.
●    Catch up with a friend over hand-crafted espresso drinks at Pulp Fiction or Slowside.
●    Grab a coffee to go from Anarchy or Slowside and enjoy a walk while taking in Kelowna's autumn colours.
●    Spend the afternoon working or studying at Bean Scene or Pulp Fiction.