By Shana Lee
The Truth Travel Contributor
The Ultimate Coffee-Lover’s Guide to Sipping Your Way Through the City
When you think of a cross-border getaway from the U.S. to Canada, you might picture historic landmarks, scenic strolls, and delicious food-but for coffee lovers like me, Windsor, Ontario is a hidden gem brimming with local cafés that deliver caffeine with a side of charm.
On a recent four-day trip with my mom, we were invited to explore Windsor’s creative, cozy and community-centered coffee scene. From industrial-style espresso bars to whimsical cafés offering African stews and latte art that warms the soul, here’s how we sipped our way through the city.
Chance Coffee-Ford City
Chance Coffee was the perfect start to our caffeinated journey. This bright and airy café, located in the artistic Ford City neighborhood, specializes in ethically sourced beans from smallholder farms around the globe. My honey latte was brewed to perfection-smooth, rich, and just the right amount of sweet.
I loved the vibe here. Natural light poured in through large windows, the plants were thriving, and the staff were incredibly welcoming. There was ample seating inside and out, and a great selection of pastries to pair with your cup. This is the kind of place you’ll want to come back to with your laptop or a good book.
Anchor Coffee House-East Windsor
Anchor Coffee House isn’t just a coffee spot-it’s a full-on culinary experience. Known for their house-made soups, salads, paninis, and scratch-made baked goods, Anchor delivered big flavor in a warm, community-focused space.
I had the bacon & egg bagel sandwich, a refreshing harvest salad, and a decadent Brown Sugar Spice Latte. Perfection. The flavors were fresh, the service was top-notch, and the interior had a relaxed, artsy feel that made you want to linger.
Taloola Café-Riverside Drive East
Taloola is a cozy café-meets-bistro that radiates warmth. Whether you’re looking for a morning coffee or a hearty lunch, this spot serves organic teas and coffees alongside globally inspired comfort food.
We enjoyed the African Ground Nut Stew, a robust panini lineup, and cozy, corner-booth conversations.
Ciao Caffe-Erie Street
Craving European café vibes? Ciao Caffe nails it. Tucked in Windsor’s Little Italy, this is where espresso meets authenticity. The patio is charming, and the interior is warm and inviting.
We stopped in for a quick lunch, enjoying a delicious sandwich with house-made chips and soaking up the neighborhood’s relaxed energy. It’s the perfect spot to grab a strong cappuccino and people-watch on the patio.
Frost Ice Cream Co.- Ottawa Street
Okay, not technically a coffee shop-but hear me out. Frost makes a Vietnamese Coffee ice cream that changed my life. This small-batch, family-run creamery offers rotating flavors, all made in-house with fresh, local ingredients. If you’re a coffee lover, this flavor alone is worth the stop.
Breweries + Distillery Stops to Pair with Your Coffee Quest
Walkerville Brewery-Historic Walkerville
Located in one of Windsor’s most storied neighborhoods, Walkerville Brewery blends local history with expertly crafted beer. Named after distillery magnate Hiram Walker, the brewery pays homage to its roots with a lineup that includes both modern styles and traditional favorites.
We enjoyed a full tasting flight and tour of the facility, learning how Walkerville helped shape Windsor’s beer culture. Their Espresso Stout was a standout for me-deep, roasty, and smooth with just the right coffee kick.
Sandwich Brewing Co.- Old Sandwich Towne
This cozy, craft-focused brewery is tucked into one of Windsor’s oldest neighborhoods. I sipped on their Espresso Porter and instantly fell in love. It’s bold, rich, and perfect for rounding out a day of sightseeing or relaxing on the patio.
Wolfhead Distillery-Amherstburg
Just a short drive outside Windsor, Wolfhead Distillery was a surprise favorite. Their Coffee Whiskey is dangerously smooth and incredibly flavorful. It’s the kind of bottle you’ll want to bring home and savor slowly.
Whether you’re hopping across the border for a weekend escape or building out your own “coffee quest,” Windsor delivers caffeinated adventures that satisfy every kind of sipper-from the specialty espresso snob to the cozy café enthusiast.
Between the craft brews, warm hospitality, and unique neighborhood vibes, I can confidently say Windsor knows how to do coffee right. Grab your passport and treat yourself to a flavorful trip you didn’t know you needed.