The Garden Strathcona

347 reviews

868 E Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V6A 1R6, Canada

thegardenstrathcona.com

+16042552299

About

The Garden Strathcona is a Cafe located at 868 E Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V6A 1R6, Canada. It has received 347 reviews with an average rating of 4.7 stars.

Photos

Hours

Monday9AM-4PM
Tuesday9AM-4PM
Wednesday9AM-4PM
Thursday9AM-4PM
Friday9AM-4PM
Saturday9AM-4PM
Sunday9AM-4PM

F.A.Q

Frequently Asked Questions

  • The address of The Garden Strathcona: 868 E Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V6A 1R6, Canada

  • The Garden Strathcona has 4.7 stars from 347 reviews

  • Cafe

  • "I *love* houseplants (YVR planty here!) so when I found out about The Garden Strathcona, I took the afternoon off work today to soak it all in"

    "This was in my list of 'Want to Go' places"

    "This place is such a gem"

    "I came here for a cup of latte and bought a salty chocolate chip cookie"

    "Well, what a lovely surprise… a hidden gem in a seedier neighborhood"

Reviews

  • B Ess

I *love* houseplants (YVR planty here!) so when I found out about The Garden Strathcona, I took the afternoon off work today to soak it all in. This is within DTES on Strathcona but on the very outskirts, close to Commercial street. There is ample free street parking and the coffee shop has two patio tables at the front. Even right at the entrance you’re greeted by several large houseplants so I was ecstatic to enter! When you enter, you are greeted by more large plants at the front and a glass case with some interesting goodies like the s’mores bar (will need to come back to try this out!) and the whipped shortbread cookies. There is also front seating facing the windows and a fridge that sells cold drinks and chewy salted chocolate chip cookie dough, yum. I added a photo of their drinks menu and it appears there is only one size for the drinks but it was beautifully served and very tasty; I ordered the cappuccino and it was fantastic. They also have blume lattes which are non-caffeinated and while I need many jolts of caffeine throughout the day, if you don’t, these blume lattes sound pretty amazing (I saw lavender and tumeric flavours available). On the milk side, there is a tray of milk and milk alternatives such as oat milk and soy. There is a self-serve water tap right by the milks. I ordered their most popular bowl, the mushroom bowl and added a ramen egg (+$2.50). The ramen egg was tasty and the mushroom bowl was also delicious with pieces of carrots, beets, chopped kale, and lots of seeds on a bed or orzo pasta. For +$4.50 you can add braised chicken and I may try that next time. There is a one hour seating limit at the table per the sign on the table. Overall the food and coffee was good and very high quality and the price is in line with artisanal and niche coffee shops; however, you’re paying for the ambiance and quality. Honestly I do love supporting small local businesses especially in the DTES, and especially if they’re also planties. Lastly, if you’re looking to pick up some interesting home items such as candles or hand salves/creams or aromatherapy sprays or even mindfulness cards, you can do so here because the left backside has an area full of goodies for you to buy. Also YES the plants are for sale but as a planty that knows the price of plants, these plants are on the pricier side; however the plants all looked healthy, very large, robust and pest free. There were some paintings on the wall that were also for sale and really added a nice touch to the coffee shop. There is also a hidden nook larger table seating in the back and a stairway that leads to their kitchen. The part I loved most was their seating right by the front window plants; it was so picturesque and felt like a little oasis. I may have taken too many selfies here but I don’t think you can blame me - the coffee shop was just too gorgeous! I’ll be back again soon :)

  • No MSG No Garlic Foodie

This was in my list of 'Want to Go' places. We were pleasantly surprised by the peaceful and comfortable atmosphere at The Garden. Being used to Yaletown Coffee shops which are typically high-energy places, it is nice to know that a tranquil coffee place exists not that far from Yaletown. They have a sitting room area with lots of plants arranged around a couch, a coffee table and a couple of chairs. Even though we didn't get to sit there, it is within our view at table 3, and we felt as though we were part of that space. Another thing I appreciated is the fact that they assign tables when you order the drinks – rather than the usual mad scramble for a seat in other crowded coffee shops. We were there for lunch, and it appears that the option for no garlic was quite limited. After consultation with the kitchen, the host offered a couple of options, one of which was a kale salad with custom vinaigrette, plus chicken if I preferred. That's what I ordered. It was a very delicious salad, and I would certainly go all the way there again just to have that salad again. We also ordered the breakfast sandwich which comes with potato salad. The espresso drinks were very well made, made with Agro Espresso, and very enjoyable. We will visit again! In fact, we did go back again the next week. I ordered the same salad and was surprised to find the chicken missing, so I asked for a side of chicken, and since I seemed to have no reaction previously, I thought it might be OK. But apparently, the chicken had been brined in garlic. Yuk. And because I did not have an oat latte before the food arrived, the garlic hit was kind strong enough that I decided we better go home instead of ordering coffee drinks, just to be safe. My partner ordered the lentil soup which contains garlic strong enough that he will probably not order it again. I was disappointed with the chicken the second time around because it was chewy and dry, not like the first time. Well, the hosts are very caring and lovely people, and it looks like lots of patrons are regulars and really enjoy their food. So, we hope that this place will flourish!
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

  • Shonnah

This place is such a gem. Walking in, it has the vibe where you wanna go to put yourself at ease. I personally would love to come here after a massage or something relaxing. Cement walls, plants everywhere and not too loud. Only thing is limited seating. Food was very wholesome and predominantly vegan. I saw most people review the mushroom bowl and it did not disappoint. It tasted good, and I felt pretty healthy and light afterwards. I also went for their salted chocolate chip cookie, which has no refined sugar. I’m not sure what they used, but it had a strong coconut flavour. It’s more a cookie if you’re craving sweet, rather than craving cookie… texture was good, but it didn’t really remind me the chocolate chip cookie I had in mind. Lastly, the oat milk flat white was great! Nice and creamy, espresso was flavourful. Good kick but no compromise on flavour of that makes sense. Overall, I’m a big fan of this cafe and will definitely be returning! It’s a great place to come along or with friends!
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Brunch
Price per person
$20–30
Recommended dishes
The Mushroom Bowl

  • Kit Yee Yu

I came here for a cup of latte and bought a salty chocolate chip cookie. It was awesome! The exterior and interior are decorated very nicely with flowers and plants. The ambience was very comfortable that I would love to sit and enjoy my latte and cookie but I had to head back to work. The coffee shop has a high ceiling height. They are selling some merchandises in one of the corners. A barista who took my order was very friendly. She greeted, smiled and chatted with me. The latte tasted great. The cookie was even more delicious than ones that I bought at other coffee shops. I would never think of such a good coffee shop in this neighbourhood. There is street parking. The pricing of the coffee was average but the cookies cost more. It was $7.xx for both a latte and a cookie. It was a bit more expensive in this neighbourhood but in terms of quality, I felt it was worth the price. I would like to come back and try other beverages and pastries.

  • Sandra Chan

Well, what a lovely surprise… a hidden gem in a seedier neighborhood. In Strathcona, on Hastings Street in Vancouver’s Eastside, this cafe/bakery/shop at first seemed out-of-place, but after spending time inside, just felt like a local hangout. We thought we were entering a plant store. Lol! The atmosphere is wonderful…who doesn’t love greenery everywhere, adorable seating and merchandise to browse. After feasting our eyes, we focused on the food and drinks menus - a good selection and what we ordered was done right! Kudos, too, for the service. We will be back!
Service
Take out
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

  • RB Artates

My boss and I had a lunch meeting at this place. I love the interior design and the feel of the cafe! It is so soothing and calming! Its like you are one with nature while you are here. Almost doesn’t seme like it is located in busy street in the city. They have a good selection of coffee and healthy food. They also sell merchandise that is all organic if i’m not mistaken. Super neat. Staff are all friendly. It can get busy at times and you have to line up outside but it also means that they are definitely doing something right for people to line up for them. Definitely recommend this place!
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$10–20

  • candy L

I was walking along E Hastings during lunch time and stumbled upon an interesting coffee shop called The Garden Strathcona. It looked like a combination of a cafe and a store with small items for sale on a big table and a lot of live plants. I liked the way that every table and chairs were unique. Up the stairs is a huge kitchen, bright and clean. I ordered a mushroom vegan lunch bowl for $11, a very reasonable price for all healthy ingredients: mushrooms, peas, wild rice, brown rice, black kale, pickled beets/mushrooms/carrots, and pumpkin seeds. I walked out very full and satisfied. This was a good finding. *just added some new pics

  • Michelle Amsing

First time in this café and it’s absolutely lovely. So many plants, beautiful art and decor. I didn’t get a chance to try out their food (bowls and such) but I’ll definitely be back in to grab a bite. I did have their walnut cacao power ball and it was surprisingly moist and the perfect amount of sweet. I also had a cortado and it was great; very soft, creamy and delicious. You can tell they use good coffee beans so that was a plus. The baristas were very sweet & nice I’ll definitely be coming back! The vibe was great. @thecoffeeseurr
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

  • Peenaz

Fantabulous cafe, amazing vibes and the food is yo die for. We went for the plant pop-up; beautiful collection and bought few. The brownies and chocolate cookie is must have and the mushroom bowl is divine. Although the portion size is bit less in grilled sandwich as well.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$90–100
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Cookies, Mushroom Bowl with Egg and Cappucino

  • Kelly Hrelja

This place has such a great atmosphere! It's very green, lush, and calming. The servers were incredibly kind as well. Well worth going out of your way for. I appreciated all of the fresh and healthy food options offered. I got a green smoothie and their daily frittata on this visit, and will definitely be back to try more!
Service
Take out
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

  • Audrey T

What a delightful coffee shop! Decided to stop by for a treat, and was enamoured by the greenery, the plant wall, the cute products and the overall vibes of the space. One hour time limit for their tables if you dine in. I got the latte - super delicious and smooth. I also got the oatmeal chocolate chip cookie ($3) as recommended by the staff member. Perfectly sweet and balanced with the latte.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Other

  • courtney pawluk

Best bowl I’ve ever had, I love this spot. The atmosphere is lovely the staff are kind and the plants and art on the walls are absolutely beautiful, I highly recommend stopping in here for a bite to eat post workout, you will not be disappointed
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Brunch
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
The Mushroom Bowl, Shop, Cookies

  • Alex Y

Beautiful, relaxing space with lots of plants and greenery. Street parking is available - think mix of coffee shop and gift shop. Food was delicious and not overly expensive. Their coffee is good, pleasantly strong and flavourful. The only constructive criticism would be that the staff/service could be more welcoming and friendly.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Brunch
Price per person
$10–20

  • Amanda Lim

This place is a dream. I loved the atmosphere in here and aesthetically so pleasing. The food is delicious with a good variety of gluten free, vegan and vegetarian options. I loved that they also have a store area to buy local products. Service was quickly, food was good and so was the coffee. I am looking forward to going back.

  • Maria N

One of the most beautiful Cafés in Vancouver; maybe the nicest one I’ve visited so far! We had a cappuccino and matcha latte as well as some treats. Everything was delicious - especially the ginger cookie is to die for Super friendly service & great selection of plants! We’ll definitely be back!

  • Bella

Amazing cafe with the best and healthiest food I have ever tasted. So light and filling. Wonderful interior and friendly staff. Overall must visit location.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Brunch
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

  • C M

You can enjoy a coffee surrounded by beautiful plants. I came here for breakfast, and the sandwich and soup were tasty!(Actually I prefer food than coffee this time) I will try another breakfast next time. They also sell cool interiors like candles and accessories. Cozy nice atmosphere.

  • Hanna Menon

The mushroom bowl at The Garden Strathcona is wholesome and incredibly satisfying. It’s one of my favourite cafes to be at in the city. The atmosphere is calming and the staff are always so friendly. The salted chocolate chip cookie is also highly recommended. 10s across the board!

  • Rosalind C

first of all- absolutely adore the space itself. i had a standard matcha latte and it was exactly as expected, no surprises (which is a good thing!) also grabbed a salted chocolate cookie and it was amazing & chewy- like a delicious mix of oats and chocolate and molasses.....yum!!

  • Nick Go

Not sure if this is a coffee shop or a plant shop but I love it! The space is really nice but it does get busy and they have a time limit for how long you can stay because of that. Coffee is good and food is good too. Maybe it tastes better because I am surrounded by plants?

  • Bobby Fahandez Anvari

Probably my favourite coffee shop in the city. Such a beautiful and uplifting space! Everything (besides their bread) is made in their kitchen and with such care. Lots of GF/vegan options. Their coffee is excellent and they have oat milk ya’ll!

  • M H

Checked out The Garden for a quick breakfast and we were super happy with what we got. Coffees were also well-made. We brought the chewy salted chocolate chip cookie to snack on at Quarry Rock and it was delish. The space itself was really

  • Pearl Wong

Lots of healthy and vegan options. Tasted amazing too, especially the mushrooms in my mushroom bowl. They serve Blume's lattes too. The vibe is very industrial modern with lots of plants, more seating than you'd expect just from looking

  • M T

This is a beautiful space with many plants. I would recommend going earlier (right when it opens) so you can enjoy the space and sit inside. The coffee is okay but the chocolate chip cookie is very good. We went later in the day around

  • Sharzi BD

I love the atmosphere but they have just a few seats! The plants make the cafe stunning The staff are not very friendly unfortunately!and our coffee tasted like it got burnt! ‍♀️
Service: 3
Atmosphere: 4

  • Maria Mainart

You will hardly find a coffee place as beautiful as this one (if you love plants). I honestly haven’t tried the coffee, but did not find the lemon sweet thing tasty at all. The atmosphere is beautiful, so is decoration etc.

  • Diven Yeung

The Flat White was done very well and presented beautifully! Bought some whole bean coffee and will be looking forward to seeing they compare. Will definitely be coming back to try their other items. More

  • Vancouver Coffee Snob

Great coffee (Agro Roasters) a solid food program with one of the best chocolate cookies I've ever had in my life and incredibly friendly staff. They scored a 9.1 out of 10 on my blog

  • Jennifer Chu

I am completely in love with this space. The Tumeric Smoothie is my go-to drink of choice (so good!) and I love that they

  • Pandora Young

Lovely spot for coffee, healthy bites, and hangout!
Food: 4…
More

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