Higher Grounds - Vancouver

Much improvement over Higher Grounds. Broadway and Vine in a heritage building that's been given a facelift.

Regret to advise this coffee shop has been sold and has reopened under a new name. It is nothing like what it used to be, the new construction is chrome, glass, cheap lights and loud music. We visited it 1X only and it was full of kids doing homework on computers. Seating is limited but we observed 3 tables capable of 12 seats being used by 4 kids working on 3 computers. Numerous people walked away. Suggest you give this a miss.

This cafe is located in a lovely, bright building on the corner of West Broadway and Vine. It is popular with locals who sit on a coffee or other drink and use the free Wifi (Apple devices seem to dominate). Family and friends come here often. (I prefer the little illy cafe on the other side of Vine, 50 metres from Broadway). The cabinet food at Higher Grounds looks very average; the coffee is. Service is, on average, ok, although some staff are very pleasant and engaging. Overall, it is the very nice premises and the wifi that pulls one back.

I often stop at Higher Grounds on my way back from a volunteer stint I do about once a week. It’s time for a latte and an Almond Butter Carob Energy Bar then. At one time the heated up cinnamon roll was my favourite, and would still be if I hadn’t discovered the Energy Bar. However the rest of the modest selection of treats is less noteworthy. Mind you there are also sandwiches and soup to be had. Occasionally the toasted vegetarian sandwich has tempted me, although we are talking second tier quality level when compared to sandwiches at Terra Breads or Harvest Deli. I would like to be able to say, “It’s the bread, stupid!” But a good bread does make a difference. All in all Higher Grounds works as a neighbourhood cafe that just happens to be conveniently located as I walk home. I should perhaps mention that in summertime the place can become rather hot as there is no air conditioning or cross draft of air.

Comfortable and trendy place to meet and catch up with friends. Staff are friendly and helpful - efficient service. Good selection of food but pretty average in quality. Coffee and specialty drinks are good.What i did like was that many there were there conversing with others and did not have their heads stuck into a computer or too busy texting (things you can do at home when no one is there to talk to).