Baya Rica Cafe is a quaint and unexpected cafe in the trendy neighbourhood of Bridgeland. I have seen Baya Rica before on Zomato and Yelp, but I’ve always decided to skip it in favour of the nearby Starbucks. With a newfound interest in local and independent cafes, I decided to finally visit this cafe today.
Bridgeland is quickly becoming one of the hottest and trendiest neighbourhoods in Calgary. Opening in 2013, “Baya Rica” is Spanish for “rich berry”, which is probably a play on their freshly roasted Costa Rican coffee. The cafe was converted from a house, and is distinguishable from its distinct yellow-painted walls.
I visited Baya Rica on a Monday afternoon, and was surprised that it was almost empty (save for a couple few folks). I went up to the counter and was met with a very friendly barista who served my soy latte quickly. Of course, it also helped that I was the only one who was ordering. The downside to the cafe—if I had to pick one—is that their operating hours are quite short. The cafe closes at 5PM daily, which is a bummer since it is the only independent cafe with a storefront in Bridgeland.
While it is nearby Downtown Calgary, Baya Rica does not see the crowds that plague many of Downtown’s busy cafes. That said, however, I suspect that this cafe would be busy on weekends, when families and yuppies go out and play. Enjoy Baya Rica’s coffee alone or with friends!
Recommended? Yes!
COST: Normal. As with many other cafes (both independent and chain), the prices are almost the same. For a large latte, expect to pay about $5.
TASTE: Excellent. My soy latte was very tasty, and is most likely one of the best lattes I’ve had in Calgary (so far). The drinks are also vegan-friendly for all my other vegan friends, as they offer coconut, almond and soy to substitute for milk. They also have snacks and meals, if you are feeling peckish for food.
ACCESSIBILITY: Easy. Baya Rica Cafe is very accessible by car or transit. Bridgeland is located by Bridgeland-Memorial station on the Blue Line (going towards Saddletowne). From the station, Baya Rica Cafe is about 10-15 minutes by foot, or 5 minutes by bus #9. Parking by the main streets are also free for two hours, if you decide to drive here instead.
ATMOSPHERE: Very nice. Despite being to close to Downtown Calgary, Baya Rica was actually quite empty and relaxing, even on a weekday afternoon. The cafe retains its homey atmosphere, and is very comfortable & cozy. There are numerous power outlets available should you decide to come in to do some work on your laptop. If you rather like sitting in the sun, they also provide many outdoor picnic tables for you (and friends).
SERVICE: 8/10. The barista at the front was very friendly and helpful. She greeted me and took my order courteously. I also didn’t have to wait a long time for my soy latte. All pluses in my book!
Baya Rica Cafe
Address: 204 7A Street NE, Calgary AB
Phone: (403) 261 – 2618
Hours:
- Monday: 7AM – 5PM
- Tuesday: 7AM – 5PM
- Wednesday: 7AM – 5PM
- Thursday: 7AM – 5PM
- Friday: 7AM – 5PM
- Saturday: 8AM – 5PM
- Sunday: 8AM – 5PM
Website: www.bayaricacafe.ca
This is not a sponsored post.
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