10 Best Coffee Shops & Cafés in Banff and Lake Louise

Travel to Canada - What to Expect

10 Best Coffee Shops & Cafés in Banff and Lake Louise

Wahoo! You’ve conquered some colossal mountains and explored some epic trails and now it’s time for a well-deserved break. Get ready to find somewhere to recharge and refuel after some crazy adventures. Grab your trusty reusable coffee cup and take a look at some of the best places to get some mouth-watering treats and delicious coffees in Banff and Lake Louise.

1. Whitebark Cafe, Banff

A group of friends enjoying a coffee at Whitebark Cafe
Enjoying a tea and from Whitebark Cafe in Banff | Photo by Eva Adamkova

When it comes to finding the best coffee in Banff, there’s one name that is often mentioned. It’s Whitebark. An independent coffee house that offers everything from your well-known coffees (including an incredible flat white) to specialty creations. If coffee isn’t the drink of choice, Whitebark offers locally sourced tea from the Banff Tea Company featuring some unique Banff blends. If you’re feeling a little hungry, Whitebark has some scrumptious homemade treats to choose from too, fueling you for your next adventure. Whether you want to enjoy your delicacies inside, take in the mountain views from the patio, or even on the way to your next activity – the choice is all yours.

2. Banff Tea Co, Banff

Bag of Rundle Mountain Tea by Banff Tea Company with the views of Rundle Mountain in the background
A bag of Rundle Mountain tea by the Banff Tea Co. | Photo by Banff Tea Co. via Instagram

Step into a tea wonderland and one of Banff’s hidden gems, The Banff Tea Company. Famous in the Bow Valley, the small local business offers over 180 varieties of loose-leaf and herbal teas. That’s not all. You can also choose from more than 40 exclusive tea blends specially created for Banff. From the warming classics to specialty concoctions, they have a tea to match every moment and mood. Some local favorites include Anx-i-e-tea, Lavender Mint, Rocky Mountain Blend, Turmeric Ginger, and many more. They also stock a number of unique decaf options too.

Insider tip: The Banff Tea Company’s’ tea packs light, making it the perfect souvenir or gift option. If you bring your own container, you receive 10% off the price too.

3. Wild Flour Artisan Bakery Café, Banff

Coffee and cake on wooden table from Wild Flour Bakery
A beautiful coffee from Wild Flour bakery accompanied by a delicious cake. | Photo by Wild Flour Artisan Bakery from Instagram.

Wild Flour is the ultimate coffee paradise in Banff. Nestled in Bison Courtyard in downtown Banff, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a coffee, freshly prepared sandwich, pastry, baked treat or if you’re really hungry, one of each. With gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan options available, every adventurer will find something they like.

Insider tip: Wild Flour also operates a second, smaller store named Little Wild. It’s located on Banff’s main street, Banff Avenue, just across the street from the SkiBig3 Adventure Hub. This cozy spot is a great place to grab a coffee to-go before heading out on your summer or winter adventures.

4. Milk Tea, Banff

Milk Tea balancing on a rock with lake and mountain views
A delicious Milk Tea by Milk Tea at Banff ready to be enjoyed with the mountain views. | Photo by Milk Tea at Banff via Instagram.

With its vibrant colors, tantalizing flavors, and delightful chewy pearls, Milk Tea is the ultimate destination for bubble tea enthusiasts in Banff. Whether you’re looking for one of the classics or want to try something new, Milk Tea has an endless number of flavor possibilities. You can personalize your own, choose from milk alternatives and also add your favorite toppings too. What’s even better is you don’t have to wait in line to get your hands on your bubble tea. You can order online and pick it up straight from the store.

5. Trailhead Café, Lake Louise

Open cut sandwich and coffee at Trailhead Cafe in Lake Louise
The irresistible crispy breaded veal toasted sandwich paired with a coffee from Trailhead Café in Lake Louise. | Photo by Trailhead Café via Instagram.

The ultimate family-owned café in Lake Louise, Trailhead is the perfect stop before or after your adventures. With a selection of scrumptious wraps, mouthwatering bagels, divine sandwiches, fluffy pancakes, and an array of baked treats and desserts you’ll want to try a bit of everything. If you thought the food was hard to choose from, wait until you hear about the coffee bar. Offering all the traditional favorites as well as some craft creations such as the Snowy Americano. Whether you’re looking to take a well-earned rest or looking to move on to explore the wonders of Banff and Lake Louise you can sit in to enjoy your Trailhead treats or take them on the road with you to your next stop.

6. Moraine Lake Cafe, Lake Louise

Moraine Lake
Moraine Lake nestled in the Valley of Ten Peaks | Photo by Travel Alberta / Roth and Ramberg

If you’re looking for a coffee stop that’s like no other, head up to see the jaw-dropping views of Moraine Lake. Grab a hot coffee and freshly baked goods from the Moraine Lake Lodge Café and take in the mesmerizing turquoise color of Moraine Lake nestled within the Valley of Ten Peaks. To access Moraine Lake, personal vehicles are a no-go year-round. However, there are Parks Canada Shuttles, Roam Public Transit, and commercial busses available from June to mid-October to transport up to a small taste of heaven. For more details, please see here.

7. Afternoon Tea at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

Fairmont Lake Louise Dining Room with views of Lake Louise
Window views of Lake Louise at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise | Photo by Faye Aradanas

For something a little more formal, book yourself in to experience the elegant afternoon tea at the Fairview Restaurant a the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. Like something out of a fairy tale, choose from a range of traditional sandwiches and delicate pastries all whilst enjoying the beautiful view of Lake Louise itself. The Fairview Restaurant welcomes day visitors, but as this is no ordinary stop, reservations are required to experience the delicious food and luxury views.

8. Cliffhouse Bistro at Mt Norquay

Three people enjoying drinks at a meal at the Cliffhouse Bistro at Mt Norquay
Enjoying the views of Mt. Rundle and the town of Banff from the Cliffhouse Bistro at Mt. Norquay. | Photo by Tyler Parker

Fancy taking your coffee experience up a notch? Hold on tight as the North American Chairlift whisks you up to an altitude of 7,000ft and delivers you to the iconic Cliffhouse Bistro at Mt. Norquay ski resort. In this chic mountain bistro feast your eyes not only on the mouthwatering menu but on one some of the most incredible, uninterrupted vistas you’ve ever seen including the charming town of Banff and the majestic Mt. Rundle.

9. Java Lift at Banff Sunshine

A couple outside Java Lift at Sunshine Village enjoying a coffee
Enjoying the coffee and the views at Java Lift cafe at Sunshine Village | Photo by Dan Evans

Java Lift is the ultimate mountain coffee stop for an adrenaline-filled breakfast, brunch or lunch. Located in the heart of Banff Sunshine Village on the main floor of the Sunshine Mountain Lodge, the cozy mountain café awaits. Filled with aromas of freshly prepared coffee, baked pastries, and flavorful sandwiches you’ll be ready to carry on your adventures in no time. Once you’re ready to go, hop onto the Standish Express just outside to continue on your mountain adventure.

10. Whitehouse Bistro, Lake Louise Ski Resort

Two meals at a mountain-top restaurant
Looking over the mountains from the Whitehouse Bistro at Lake Louise Ski Resort. | Photo by Lake Louise Ski Resort

Calling all adventure and foodie enthusiasts. For the best views and culinary delights of Lake Louise Ski Resort, the Whitehouse Bistro awaits. They offer a range of carefully curated selections of hot and cold beverages as well as an irresistible food menu. With ingredients sourced from local and boutique suppliers, it’s one of the best ways to experience a farm-to-table dining experience, all whilst taking in the unbelievable mountain views.

Insider tip: The Whitehouse Bistro is open all year round. Located near the top of the gondola it does require a lift ticket to access it.

Ready for great coffee and an unforgettable mountain adventure?

Our friendly Reservations Team is always happy to share their local knowledge and experience to help you find the best coffee shop and the best ski vacation packages for your taste, style and budget. Check out our featured vacation packages or call us on 1-844-754-2443: our based-in-Banff Reservations Team are here to help!

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