Metallion Cafe — Restaurant in Vancouver

In this mysterious and fragile world, there is a universal thread of stories. A series of moments and events there are spread like pearls on a silky thread across the cosmos, each pearl representing an instant out of time, an event, a singular moment.

These are the momentary pauses that create the story of who we are. The pages of our book, those things that nestle into our memory like a small bird into a handful of spun grass and twigs.

These memories that are as real to us today as the moment of their inception. You know these places, intimate events, certain epiphanies by the side of the road.

Metallion Cafe fits so nicely along that twisted path, a pearl on the thread, the bench along the tumultuous path. Eclectic and full of life, a safe and creative place. A cul-de-sac in the midst of a long run.

I think perhaps the place is a reflection of my own mind, full of odds and ends, comfortable, and lived in. The walls are adorned with a panoply of curious art, much of which is worth a second glance. Regulars arrive and depart as if at a way station to the Shire. They look friendly and familiar as if perhaps long lost friends back from a romantic quest.

The staff was friendly and direct, the atmosphere kind. And I suppose almost as important the mocha was excellent and hot. It reminded me of places stumbled into while trekking in far off lands, where suddenly you found rest along the weary road.

These places that are the sum of the clients and the owner’s dreams. Interesting people thinking interesting things. People making magic in a place of quirky repose. Yes, I liked the mocha, a not too sweet cup that really was more like a bowl.

This is a place I could rest… and establishments like that are rare. You know what I mean, a place to stop and what a relief my friends is that?

Saturdays are chess night (a practice so far from my poor aged abilities as to exist in a foreign universe) and Fridays are crafts and crocheting night and I can only imagine the strange things that swim their wild way into...

Here is my experience with Metallion Café...... As an artist I cannot tell u how appreciative I am to be able to display my wares at Rachel's place at no cost, I mean, who does that? Rachel could easily charge a commission for any & every item sold by the artist. She could charge space rent if she wanted to, but she doesn't. This action speaks to the kind & compassionate person Rachel is! She also hosts all kinds of special extra curricular events at Metallion Café, tho I've never attended them. She hosts weekly art nights where folks get together from the community to exchange ideas, socialize & just have fun. I know this because I know other folks who have attended these nights & she posts photos of these events on Instagram as well & pictures "speak a 1000 words", right? She has had live music in her Café & she also hosts an annual silent auction to raise money for her chosen charity. I donated some of my handmade jewelery for said event this year for the 1st time. I'm glad i did. I've never eaten at her Café not because I don't want to, but because of financial issues, but I'd love to try some of the interesting vegetarian selections on her menu. I HAVE enjoyed a Stumptown decaf coffee from her before & it was excellent. I love the ambiance of Metallion Café when u 1st walk in. It is clean & has that comfy & cozy feel to it. Rachel is friendly & welcoming. She must be doing something right based on her longevity at that location. There seems to be a love affair between Rachel & the community.....that certainly says something about Rachel & Metallion Café. Everyone should check it out at 19th & Main St in uptown/downtown...

Metallion has everything you want in a cafe and more. They have great coffee, including the usual standbys (lattes, cappuccinos, cortados, etc.) plus fun flavors to try (like coconut curry and chic-o-stic).

The walls are covered with photos, paintings, and other creations from local artists. The aesthetic is: stuff we like made by people we like. You can also buy locally-made cards and gifts.

Last but not least, the vibe is great. The staff is super nice and fun to talk to, and (unlike other places) Mon Ami the kind of place you want to hang out.

I've spent most of my life in Portland/Vancouver. Mon Ami is what a community coffee shop used to be. It's hard for me to put into words other than: if you've only been to over-priced espresso joints with white walls and blonde wood decor, then you've never been to a real Pacific NW coffee shop. Give...