New Westminster is small, hilly, historic and full of character, and its cafes match. In one afternoon you can drink espresso in a heritage building on Columbia Street, walk the river boardwalk with a latte while tugboats push log booms past, and finish with gelato. Here’s how locals do it.
Downtown and Columbia Street
New West’s downtown sits right on top of the SkyTrain, which makes it one of the easiest cafe crawls in the region.
- Old Crow Coffee Co.: An independent that’s become a downtown institution, with careful coffee and warm, consistent service.
- Coasters Coffee (55 6th Street): A busy, friendly spot with a bigger food menu than you’d expect, including daily soups. Table service makes it feel like a neighbourhood living room.
- Solodko Ukrainian Bakery: Ukrainian pastries and breads with coffee. Worth a stop for something you won’t find elsewhere.
The Quay and the riverfront
The Westminster Pier Park boardwalk is the city’s front porch.
- Delicia Cafe & Bakery: Step outside and watch the tugboats on the Fraser, step inside for one of the better coffee selections in New West.
- Tre Galli Gelato Caffe: Gelato and espresso, so order an affogato. The view helps.
- River Market: The market building at the Quay has food vendors and coffee options. Check what’s open before you go, as tenants change.
Uptown and Sixth Street
- Urban Rush Espresso: A neighbourhood espresso bar that works for a quick stop or a longer sit.
- Craft Cafe: Known as much for sandwiches as coffee, a good lunch-and-latte stop.
Sapperton
East Columbia Street near Royal Columbian Hospital has small cafes and bakeries serving hospital staff and Brewery District residents. Pair a coffee with a walk through Sapperton Park.
Chains in New West
Blenz near the Quay is a dependable work-friendly option. Starbucks and Tim Hortons cluster around Royal City Centre, Sixth Street and the hospital. See our Starbucks cheat sheet if you’re heading to one.
Local tips
- Best coffee walk: Grab a cup downtown, then walk the boardwalk to Pier Park.
- Best view: Anywhere along the Quay.
- Hills: New West is steep. Start Uptown and walk downhill to the river.
- Getting there: New Westminster, Columbia, Sapperton and 22nd Street SkyTrain stations all serve the city.
Frequently asked questions
Where’s the best coffee in New Westminster?
Downtown on Columbia Street and Sixth Street, with Old Crow Coffee Co. and Coasters Coffee as local favourites.
Are there cafes with a river view in New West?
Yes, at the Quay, including Delicia Cafe & Bakery and Tre Galli Gelato Caffe.
Last checked November 2026. Cafes change hours, owners and addresses often, so check a cafe’s own Instagram or Google listing before making a special trip. Know a spot we missed? Tell us.
Nearby: Burnaby cafes and Coquitlam cafes.
