Cavan Coffee — Restaurant in Guelph

I have read the amazing reviews of this cafe and was disappointed I did not leave with that glow of good service and atmosphere promised by them. I visited Mon., July 29th late a.m. No doubt the Americano I had was smooth and gave me a good surge of energy for $4ish. Upon entering I saw a huge messy "work" area to the left which looks like it needs a rethink regarding asthetics. Not sure what message is being conveyed here. We taste fresh, good and we are messy? There was not a lot of seating left, so yes, busy usually a good sign and one staff member on duty which in my generous heart may have been unfair working conditions for him. When I asked about what a flatty was, the baristo mustered a contemptuous "Its a flat white". That did not clear things up for me as I am not a beverage aficionado but the withering look of contempt from the server made me want to limit any energy spent on exploring the menu further with him. I would have left but my Sister likes this place. Though she mentioned she noticed the server's resting dik face. The place was filled with sad lonely people working on laptops. It's not easy serving the public, I get that and I hope the baristo is okay because we can all have a bad day. The corner round table I sat at hadn't recently been wiped and we did clear our own table. The best part was being able to talk to my sister until the metal rock began to play... Not my taste for friendly peaceful coffee drinking ambience. This Gen Xer is reluctant to return. Sad because I have lots and of money to spend on coffee and treats. I googled what a flatty is by the way and I would like to try it now I understand about all ingredients and ratios. Sadly it most likely won't be at the Cavan...

About six years ago, a friend invited me out for coffee at Cavan's. I instantly fell in love with the decor—unique artwork from various artists and a light, open vibe that felt so welcoming. And, despite other reviewers mixed opinions, I have to say—I absolutely love the textile hand-drying towels in the bathroom!

As time went on, especially during COVID, Cavan’s became my go-to coffee spot. I started visiting regularly and got to know Jer and Rufus a bit better. They’re both such awesome, genuinely kind people, always ready for a good conversation on any topic under the sun.

But Rufus and I had one heated (and ongoing) debate: coffee roasting. I was convinced—adamant (a term I’m pretty sure comes from "adamantine," meaning as hard as diamond)—that dark roast was the only roast worth drinking. Rufus, however, was firmly team light roast. I swore I’d never waver on this.

Well, Rufus, if you’re reading this—I’m currently sipping on someone else’s so-called "light" roast and finding myself critiquing whether it’s really is a light roast......You were right. Light roast has won me over.

To everyone else: Cavan coffee is simply incredible. The flavors are so interesting, complex, and unique—they truly know their stuff. Their roasts are the perfect way to start any day, and knowing that they ethically source their coffee, helping create more equality in the world brings even more happiness to my day. :)

You guys are...

Let me tell ya about this coffee joint down south in Guelph. I took a day off with my little daughter, you know, had to hit up the ol' walk-in clinic. Now, I was expecting a rough day, but hey, sometimes life throws you a curveball. The clinic visit was smooth, left us some time to kick back.

On the way back, I see this spot, big ol' sign, shiny and new. Figured it was a new joint. Turns out, they've been there for almost four years! Who knew? The barista, real friendly fella, tells me they used to go by another name, but hey, details, right?

Now, let me tell ya about these three characters overseeing the joint. They're up on this huge picture, keeping watch 24/7. From roasting to posting to sipping, these fellas don't miss a beat. Quality control, eccentric style.

And the coffee? Oh, it's a symphony of flavor, my friend. Fresh, flavorful, served up by a friendly face. And the vibe? Oh, it's something else. Local artists' paintings adorn the walls, giving it that extra charm. Some are serene, some a bit darker, but it all adds to the atmosphere.

But wait, we ain't done yet! Let's talk scones. Cheddar and chives, my goodness. Perfectly crumbly, warm, and downright delicious. That, my friend, is what a coffee shop should...