Saunter Coffee — Restaurant in Vancouver

Saunter is a coffee shop that I’ve had my eye on, all winter long.  I’d walk by it and say to myself that I’ve got to check this one out because it looks so cool.  The entire street is cool.  Saunter has been here almost a year and today I finally made it inside.  Unfortunately it closes at 4PM on a Sunday and I got there at 3:30, so I didn’t have much time to hang out.

Saunter is a cool name for a coffee shop and the space is equally cool.  Vibe is crucial and saunter passes this test with ease.   The space is small and intimate but it has a minimalist design so it doesn’t feel cramped.  Also, it has lots of south facing windows, so it’s always bright and that makes it feel bigger.

There's also a hidden alley space in the back, which I didn't check out, but will have to next time. Apparently it's also very unique.

During my visit, two girls were taking pictures of each other.  I can see why because the space is naturally photogenic.  Lots of light and the backgrounds aren’t too busy.  It’s also right beside a bus stop, so if you like sipping a coffee and watching people…this is the place to be.

I had an Americano, which was good, but it was so hot outside that I couldn’t finish the coffee.  We’re having an unusual warm spell in Vancouver.  El Nino has arrived.  I’m trying to break my Croissant addiction so I had the Onion & Cheese Roule, instead.  It was actually pretty good, I was impressed.

There is no in-house wifi, so you have to sign in to the Telus network.  Which I think is free, although I’ve never tried it.

The staff seem very chill and helpful, and the whole place has a kind of homey feel that you will never find at a chain store coffee shop.  It’s a unique place and I hope it prospers because unique independent coffee shops like this are what really add...

I tried this cafe for the first time and ordered their strawberry matcha latte and it was amazing. The service was quick, and the drink itself was one of the best strawberry matchas i’ve ever had for sure. The matcha was smooth and creamy with that vibrant green color that everyone expects in a good matcha, and the strawberry was amazing too. I’d give it a solid 9/10 and honestly hope they make it a permanent menu item.

However, the second time i visited, i opted for just a regular iced matcha latte to save a couple dollars and it was a totally different experience. The service was still fast but the drink was very disappointing. The matcha tasted like watered-down matcha milk, it was not creamy at all, kinda gritty, and the color was pale. It was a complete waste of my money.

I don’t know if it’s because a different person was working the counter or if it’s because i got a regular matcha latte instead of the strawberry matcha one but yeah, there seems to be an inconsistency in quality. And i’d love to keep coming back but consistency is key and unfortunately i’m not sure if it’s worth another try because i really don’t wanna play russian roulette with...

flat white = $4.75 -

As you walk down East Pender, you're welcomed by Saunter Coffee's simple, but welcoming storefront. I loved the contrast between the more muted grey exterior and the brightness of the light wooden furniture inside.

The interior is intimate, with several small tables and a benched area right by their large glass windows. Even on a rainy Vancouver day, the whole shop is fully illuminated by natural light! If you walk around, past the counter, you will find a few more tables in the brick "alleyway" behind the store. Don't worry! It's enclosed, so you can enjoy the natural light with no risk of the cold or rain!

Onto their coffee...it was great! My flat white tasted as amazing as it looked. I mean look at that latte art 👌☕️ If you're not into coffee, they also have a selection of teas, ranging from hojicha to iron goddess tea!

Overall, Saunter Coffee is definitely a coffee shop I'd like to revisit, both for their coffee and...