The Vancouver Indy Coffee Scene

Just because I’m leaving “The Drive” doesn’t have to mean I have to give up on good independent coffee does it?

Not in Coquitlam. I had the opportunity to check out Cornerstone Coffee.

Walking in your met with tastefully painted concrete floors that look like title, wood tables and chairs, and the most comfortable leather sofa chairs I have seen in any coffee shop.

Drinking my vanilla chai I got nice and comfy and realized these sofa chairs were much too enjoyable for doing any type of homework. This was true I barely got a thing done.

Cornerstone comfy area

Twice baked, once enjoyed

Like an olive in a martini, or a drink umbrella in a mai tai no specialty drink is complete without a small biscotti. I have seen this as not much more then a gimmick at other chain shops, but at Cornerstone I welcomed the addition, it was a real biscotti, and tasted dam good.

The walls are decorated with quotes and photos about coffee and cafes. Again I have seen this done very poorly elsewhere as marketing ploy but Cornerstone has a nice collection that doesn’t pat themselves on the back, these phrases are also duplicated on their website.

Beans are provided by 49th Parallel coffee roasters and were not just chosen for their quality beans, but because Cornerstone is social conscience about their affects on the developing world.

Afternoon Tea?

What surprised me the most was the 39 different varieties of organic tea you could choose from. They are supplied by not one, not two, but three different tea companies:

• Cuppa Joe
• Numi Tea
• Two leaves & a bud

If this selection leaves you overwhelmed, ask the barista behind the counter. I found Leah bel to be extremely knowledgeable about the teas and coffee served.

After seven years in the business it is no surprise that Cornerstone has stood the test of time and carved out a niche for itself. I’d highly recommend anyone in the area check out this jewel of a café, it will certainly be worth it.

Faces and Places:

Where was this blog written: Cornerstone Cafe
Drink ordered: Vanilla Chai
Quality and swiftness of service : Excellent
Barista Friendliness : Excellent
Café website : cornerstonecafe.ca