Exploring coffee can go far beyond the standard cup, diving into a world of unique experiences, tasting journeys, and coffee-focused spaces that add depth to the drink. For those who are curious about what makes each cup unique or those simply looking to spend time somewhere memorable, here are three coffee destinations that offer more than just beans in a cup.
Coffee Tastings at Khaos Coffee: A Journey for the Senses
At Khaos Coffee, coffee tasting is a dedicated experience, not unlike a wine tasting, where you can sample their on-site roasted beans. Their “coffee cupping” event lets customers explore four different coffees in an hour-long guided session designed to enhance the appreciation of various roast profiles and origins. Visitors learn about the roasting process and how each stage of roast development affects the final flavour profile, from fruity notes to a smooth, earthy finish. Their beans are used to craft flat whites, lattes, mochas, espressos and affogatos.
Each cupping includes explanations of how different factors, like bean origin and roasting technique, impact the flavour. Attendees can taste and compare, developing an understanding of what makes a roast light or dark, acidic or smooth. Khaos Coffee’s cupping is available for solo tasters or groups up to four, making it a perfect choice for anyone from casual coffee lovers to small gatherings of friends. Sessions start at CA$45 for individuals, with a discount for groups, ensuring this unique experience is accessible for all coffee enthusiasts. It’s a rare chance to explore coffee in a hands-on, educational way, right here in the Okanagan.
The owner, George Popi, began roasting coffee with his Aillio Bullet roaster, driven by a passion for crafting the perfect espresso. He started selling his beans at farmers' markets around Vernon and eventually established a permanent coffee bar within Kin + Pod Chocolate, creating the ultimate pairing of exceptional coffee and ethically sourced chocolate. It’s an experience you’ll want to savour—because really, what could be better than that? Khaos Coffee invites you to indulge in something truly special.
Feels of Italy in the Courtyard of Bean Scene Coffee House
Bean Scene Coffee House creates a slice of Italy right in Vernon with their inviting courtyard experience. Surrounded by murals evoking Italian art and streetscapes, guests can enjoy their coffee in a setting that feels inspired by classic Italian cafés. The courtyard setting filled with plants makes for a leisurely coffee experience where the artful atmosphere, coupled with Bean Scene’s rich brews, gives guests a chance to feel worlds away from everyday routine.
The café’s commitment to high-quality, freshly roasted coffee is evident, with options for espresso lovers and pour-over fans alike. Bean Scene’s espresso drinks pair well with their range of freshly baked pastries, all crafted to enhance the experience without overshadowing the main attraction: the coffee. For those looking to relax, the courtyard serves as an ideal spot for an extended coffee break, offering a change of scenery without needing to book a ticket to Italy. The combination of quality coffee and an artful courtyard setting makes it a favourite for anyone wanting to make their coffee break feel like an escape.
Coffee at the Farm at Davison Farmhouse Café
Davison Farmhouse Café brings a family-friendly twist to the coffee experience by pairing it with a farm setting that’s both relaxing and engaging. This café, situated right on the farm, provides an inviting place for parents to sip their coffee while keeping an eye on kids playing in the farm’s playground. The coffee here is brewed with the same dedication to quality that characterizes Davison’s approach to all things farm-fresh, using beans carefully chosen to complement their homey baked goods.
Davison’s offerings go beyond just coffee; their menu features seasonal treats, many made with fresh ingredients grown on the farm itself. Spring strawberry muffins, fall pumpkin treats, and homemade pies are among the highlights, allowing guests to enjoy a taste of the farm’s bounty. The café setting is casual and relaxed, with plenty of outdoor seating where families can spread out and unwind. For anyone looking to make a morning out of their coffee break, Davison Farmhouse Café’s combination of fresh air, great coffee, and activities for kids makes it a solid choice.
Enjoying Coffee Beyond the Usual Cup
These coffee spots around Vernon add new dimensions to the coffee experience. The coffee-tasting experience of the unique profiles of each roast at Khaos Coffee, taking in Italian-inspired art at Bean Scene’s courtyard, or enjoying coffee on the farm at Davison’s offers something memorable beyond the standard coffee shop visit. So next time you reach for a cup, consider one of these experiences to make your coffee break something more.
