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Matchstick Coffee Roasters
Category: Food Coffee & Tea Coffee & Tea [Edit]
639 East 15 AveVancouver, BC V5T 2R6
Neighbourhood: Mount Pleasant
(604) 558-0639
- Hours:
Mon-Sun 7 am - 6 pm
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Parking:
- Street
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
36 reviews for Matchstick Coffee Roasters
36 reviews in English
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Review from Danielle B.
Vancouver, BC
5/18/2012
Fabulous! The place, the people, the coffee ... The whole package. I had never tried pour-over coffee before, and the barista was friendly in explaining what she was doing and why (though I did realize that I had seen the technique before after all; my Dad made coffee that way every morning for years and years, but now I know *why* he made such a great cup of coffee).
I was recommended to try the new beans, freshly posted to the menu that very day, which are apparently the first to have been roasted in-house: the coffee was superb. The pure, full-bodied coffee taste shone through even with my requisite milk & sweetener.
The ambiance of the shop is amazing - spare yet warm and inviting at the same time, plus I adore the communal table concept (there are also smaller tables).
I only wish it were a teeny bit more conveniently located for me, because then I'd be in there all the time ...Listed in: My Faves, Focus on Fraser St.
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Review from Evelyn G.
Vancouver, BC
5/1/2012
I heard a lot of hype about this new coffee shop and was interested to visit it. I like that little block, it's really happening with Faux Bourgeois, Spool of Thread and some other crafty shops, so I think that a rad coffee shop is an obvious much-needed addition to the spot.
I liked the place immediately, it's very open and fresh. Lots of white and clean lines, and concrete floors. Also, sexy Bose speaker system with real vinyl being played. I didn't have anything to eat but the baked goods looked fantastic. In the center there is a long table that many people (strangers or friends) can sit at communally and I think that's a great touch, because sometimes coffee shops are set up with about 20 tables that seat only 2 people and most of the time only 1 person is sitting at each one.
The coffee wasn't the best, so I wouldn't go out of my way to make it over there, but that's also because it isn't conveniently located for me. But I will definitely take a lovely bike ride over there to relax on a day off and people watch the beautiful trendsetters that flock around that block. -
Review from Robin M.
4/29/2012 3 Check-ins Here
I'll jump on this train; absolutely, I will. When Matchstick first opened its doors a few months back, I decided to take the wait-and-see approach so that I could check it out *after* the major hype had died down (also known as: too-cool-to-jump-on-the-bandwagon-too-soon approach).
Located in what is sure to be the next "it" neighbourhood in Vancouver, this place is oozes cool. From the bright, airy interior, to the requisite communal table, to the standing-only coffee bar, to the minimalist antlers placed *just so* above the reading nook, Matchstick hits all of the marks of the new wave of cool in west coast coffee shops. Like Revolver (which it must be compared to, given all of the aforementioned qualities), Matchstick leans toward a nostalgic, almost Canadiana approach to its aesthetics; but unlike Revolver, Matchstick has managed to make their space a bit more community-based, child-friendly, mass-pleasing -- a place to meet an old friend, no matter who they have turned out to be. Smart, given the family-oriented neighbourhood they've opened in.
So about that coffee: delicious -- the clear star of this beauty show. The ever-popular pour-over method is done to perfection, and the deep, rich espresso in their Americano highlights the smooth quality of their beans. Any coffee nerd would give their stamp of approval to Matchstick. This one sure did.
I'm on the bandwagon, and have no desire to jump off anytime soon.Listed in: East Van, Coffee Love, Communal Table Love, Canadiana
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Review from Josh L.
Vancouver, BC
4/19/2012 4 Check-ins Here
I quickly became a Matchstick fan for high quality coffee, delicious baked goods, a charming space, and friendly staff who are deeply passionate about tasty coffee.
The coffee is very good--Phil & Seb's these days until they get roasting their own beans--but those not familiar with the Calgary roaster might find the pour overs pack a bit more of a caffeine punch than others around town. Espresso drinks are elevated with the use of a local dairy from Abbotsford, a detail that was not lost even on my unschooled palate.
The baked goods are wonderful--a mix of classics like pain au chocolat alongside some gutsier offerings. A lemon & lavender muffin is a delightful pairing to a coffee and the people watching, which is A-plus through their large windows overlooking the oh-so-hip Fraser & Kingsway corridor. -
Review from Zee K.
Vancouver, BC
4/24/2012
Intensely hipster new coffee roaster with a really cool, clean interior design. It seems to always be packed with lots of neighbourhood locals from all walks of life.
Their baked goods are amazing - try the ginger-cream scone (served with coconut cream) or twice-baked almond chocolate croissant. I don't drink coffee, but all my good friends do - they use Chemexes to brew each cup of coffee, which makes it a bit more expensive, but a better cup of coffee overall. According to my peeps, their roasts are 'very good', but not as good as Milano. -
Review from Colene C.
4/13/2012 3 Check-ins Here
What a beautiful, beautiful space. Matchstick is the kind of place where you want to have a coffee because the space is amazing: long wooden table, beautiful decor, friendly staff and big huge windows perfect for gazing outside at the wonderful hipsters walking by :)
Down to the coffee: I'm a fan, but I still think that Revolver has my heart. There's something that Revolver does that wins me over...perhaps that magic in the macchiato?
Pro-tip: they make their own Seltzer water! -
Review from James B.
Calgary, AB
4/13/2012
Super impressed with this place from the moment I walked in. What used to be an old bank is now an amazing cafe, filled with little trinkets and more reclaimed would than I could ever dream of.
Deciding on a capp ( as it was my 3rd coffee of the day) I was caught a bit off guard by the friendly lady taking our order... super knowledgable, funny, and most importantly - passionate. I was able to decipher from my own behaviour that she must indeed be the owner, which turned out to be spot on.
Amazing service, coffee, and atmosphere. Add these folks to your #Best of YVR list for 2012 -
Review from J N.
Vancouver, BC
3/18/2012 1 Check-in Here
Les Faux Bourgeois opened up this part of town and Matchstick was clever enough to capitalize upon it. At late aft. on a Sat. it was packed. Beautiful interior but I wish they would list their offerings on the wall behind them. I'm sure they didn't want to ruin their lovely wall, but it makes things easier when ordering.
Staff was super friendly and they even made me a new latte when they served it in a "to stay" mug instead of a "to go" cup. (I certainly didn't ask for it and even insisted that I was fine to drink it.) The crowd was diverse and interesting. The whole look of the place made me proud to see that Vancouver has finally "made it". (It sure took us long enough, didn't it?)
Strong coffee reminiscent of a combination of JJ Bean and Revolver. Minus a star b/c the atmosphere is not "quite" as cool as Revolver.The taste was just a bit bitter to me, too, but since I don't take mine black, I might not be the best judge of this.
I ordered a decaf that was still pretty tasty. Mind you, I was up all night afterwards, but I'm pretty sure that they weren't lyin' about the decaf part. :)
It would be nice if they offered some cinnamon/vanilla to add, but maybe that's just not the trend nowadays or is thought to spoil the coffee? I personally, still like the extras on my coffee, esp. since I don't add sweetener.
Pastry case was a bit sparse, but I wasn't in the mood for ordering food anyway. I was curious about the Pain DC after reading about MD's experience, however.
Overall, a great find, and next time, I might even hope to find a seat here, too.Listed in: Anything but Starbucks....
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Review from Judy H.
Richmond, BC
3/23/2012 4 Check-ins Here
The smell of the freshly baked/baking pastries will make you drool. The warm wood furniture is inviting on a cold, wet day and the bright interior will cheer you up. The staff really seem to enjoy working there and it shows with their smiles and welcomes.
I've tried 2 out of 3 of their drip coffees and enjoyed them both. Will definitely try their espresso next time around. The pain au chocolat was a good size with soft chocolate inside ( not the stick of hardened choco down the middle ).
Very inviting and stylish, but not pretentious.Listed in: Coffee
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Review from Melissa K.
Vancouver, BC
2/27/2012
Wow, there are a lot of five stars here, not sure if I feel the same. I do love these coffee shops opening on Fraser and Main and is sad that none exists in Yaletown; where I live.
The decor is really thoughtful and amazing. Simple and cozy. This is a really weird intersection and it's easy to miss, it's beside les faux bourgeois for those of you not familiar with the area.
The baked goods looked delicious and I got an apple walnut cookie, it was good, but just okay. A little too crunchy and oily. My macchiato was sour. I've had sour cappuccinos and macchiatos at great coffee houses before like 49th Parallel, Elysian, and Crema. I'll come back here if I'm in the area, but for now I'll stick with Revolver. -
Review from Derek W.
2/19/2012
Haiku Review:
West coast modern plus
a hint of something older
natural, clean lines
Some folks love coffee.
Those folks started their own shop.
That shop is Matchstick.
Almost too perfect
when empty, but it's so full
there's nowhere to sit!
Beards behind the bar
Friendly smiles behind the beards
Delicious coffee.
It is still settling in,
But when it matures a bit:
best coffee in town. -
Review from Gary M.
Lazy Saturday afternoon, off to Matchstick for some relaxing times, "feels like coming home" times.
We made it just before the 3:37PM rush... had a seat on the lovely deck chairs, by the back corner. I love how this place makes me feel like I am on holiday. (like being in Scandinavia meets Portland... What a cool match!)
I love talking to the proprietors. They have a sparkle in their eyes and a passion for their vision. It's so lovely to see people living their dreams.
I love the fresh baked goods and the latte benevolence.
I think that's why I love Matchstick so.Listed in: My absolute best favorites
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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1/28/2012
Just back from Tokyo, I was looking for a coffee shop with a sense of space, elegance and design to… Read more »
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Review from Marc D.
Vancouver, BC
1/26/2012 2 photos
* Like the vibe, but they need to polish the rough spots *
This cafe with a roasting setup right in the back is a nice open bright space with a good vibe. I don't think they are roasting their own beans yet, but it seems that is coming soon.
I sampled the espresso and a pain au chocolat.
The espresso tasted like they had too light of a stop to me. It was a bit watery and was much tanner than a properly pulled shot normally would be. That resulted in a fairly weak taste overall. Granted, I tend towards preferring the dark stop side of things, so for some this may be a taste they are ok with. Photo: http://www.yelp.ca/biz...
The pain au chocolat was different than any other I have had before. While the outside was nicely layered and flaky the inside was extremely doughy. It reminded me of the consistency of a cinnamon roll. Definitely not what I expected, and I must say I much prefer a nice flaky one instead. Photo: http://www.yelp.ca/biz...
Overall they have to find their footing. The location has potential, but it is likely going to be a long while before I return so they can work out the kinks on other folks instead of me.Listed in: Dentists' Dreams in Vancouver, Vancouver Coffee
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Review from Vincci L.
Declaring Matchstick as my new favourite coffee place.
The large open room, lots of natural light, a central communal wood table, simple, raw, decor. There's also a small section with 2 large chairs, perfect to sit back and relax in.
I had a latte which was really quite perfect. Smooth, and just right. They also roast their own beans so you know the coffee is fresh.
Super friendly staff, and just a cool vibe. -
Review from Roanna Z.
Matchstick, you wowed me. You built it and they came.
Great coffee, (Phil&Sebastian) and regionally specific individual pour-overs, house baked pastries, a bright, fantastic space with wireless and already a growing fan-base. I'm smitten!
The joy is in the simple details. The long wood plank table, the ceramic tiled wall, the light bulb fixtures, the 'cottage style' chairs at the back with the children's treasure chest that doubles as a table.... genius!
This whole block that was only recently seeded is now blooming.
This is love! -
Review from Chantal I.
Vancouver, BC
Where there's smoke there's fire.
Matchstick Coffee Roasters opened it's doors January 20th, much to the delight of Vancouver coffee geeks. Opening day was a hit, when I arrived around 2pm, they were sold out of all the baked goods they'd posted on Twitter, and had run out of macchiato cups. That's a good sign on opening day, not something to complain about.
With local coffee veterans behind the bar, and soon, in front of the roaster, Matchstick is sure to be an instant neighbourhood hit. It's beautiful interior is simple and classic, with an embracing communal table as the primary sitting area, alongside smaller tables in the large front south facing window. With high ceilings, bright walls, and warm wood finishings in a space this clean and uncluttered, you'll notice the details. Right down to the refurbished vintage Bose speakers above the bar. Your parent's basement never had it so good.
The espresso machine has a forest green custom paint job, but don't let it's not so flashy look fool you. With an owner behind the bar, you know you're getting dedication to the craft. Serving Phil & Sebastian Coffee, a Roaster from Calgary until the gas is installed to fire up their very own roaster, my single origin Guatemalan macchiato was excellent. Sweet, brighter than I'd expected, and served to the standards of some of the best in the city.
With a slow brew bar reminiscent of Revolver Coffee, and not an electric brewer in sight, you know there's only good things to come. Take the time to get to know your Barista, they're full of knowledge, passionate about what they do, and come from some of your favourite local cafes.
When the gas lights the roaster, Matchstick will be burning a new flame in local coffee. Long live the local neighbourhood Roaster.Listed in: Craft Coffee.
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Review from Emma L.
2/3/2012 1 Check-in Here
Gorgeous space, great coffee, friendly staff.
I've been meaning to stop by for a while, and man am I glad I went there today. The place was packed, and I could see why. I was eyeing their pourover coffee (perfectly measured as they sit them on scales), but I opted for a mocha instead. Real chocolate shavings mixed with perfect espresso and steamed milk. Yum. While I was waiting, the barista chatted me up, super friendly and really pleased that I liked the place. How could I not?
Can't wait to go back! Will definitely pop in anytime I'm in the neighbourhood.Listed in: Coffee coffee coffee
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Review from Jenna L.
I was wondering where this place was! Found it sitting neatly next to Les Faux..:) I like the communal table layout and the wooden beams, it's such a welcoming place. I see a lot of people are trickling into check out the new place just like myself. My latte was nice and crisp, though I usually favour more smooth, caramely finish, but this was refreshing. The baristas are very friendly and chatty which is important because have we not had enough snobs behind a counter!
It is some distance away from me so I probably will not come as often, but perhaps coupled with a visit to Les Faux. -
Review from Melissa D.
Vancouver, BC
3/3/2012
I am no coffee expert but I really liked this place.
My latte was as smooth as silk.
I had to do some work and the large communal table was perfect.
I love that I had lots of space without bothering anyone.
I'll be back! -
Review from Kendra N.
Vancouver, BC
2/28/2012 4 Check-ins Here
I was blown away by how cool this place is. Not the 'I'm so hip it hurts' type of cool...it's way more effortless and subdued than that.
It's bright, airy and warm. The attention to detail in the decor is incredible, from the vintage industrial pendant lights and the live-edge communal wood table, to the custom wood stand for the POS tablet and the terrariums dotting the room. All very thoughtful and obviously appreciated by the crowd that regularly gathers here.
But I guess I should comment on the beverages. Both the Americanos and lattes were perfect in my books. My friend had a pot of tea, and they kept the leaves for her in case she wanted a refresh. The baristas were really friendly, with none of the attitude found at some other coffee spots.
Couldn't resist the batch of amazing-looking baked goods. The muffin looked home-baked and lived up to its appearance. Good thing I had to leave before the mint-chocolate cookie drew me back to the line-up.
I'll be back because it's a few doors away from my other new haunt, the Gluten Free Epicurean (which doesn't serve coffee). -
Review from Malloreigh M.
Vancouver, BC
2/20/2012 3 Check-ins Here
I think I've found my new "best coffee in Vancouver" spot. I visited this spare, modern, bright space this morning and had a cup of Costa Rica pourover. The flavour was rich and perfectly balanced, without bitterness - smooth and enjoyable, and as usual when I get pourover coffee, unwhitened.
Nothing for a poor vegan to eat, unfortunately, but I'll still go back again and again for the coffee. This space reminds me of Milano Gastown, but roomier and warmer - the windows are south-facing and I can only imagine how beautiful the space will feel when it's filled with dappled light in the summer. I'm really glad the Kingsway/Fraser crossing has been gifted with a gorgeous little cafe like this one. Great potential in this space. They could do with some more tables too, actually, and they have the space for them.Listed in: Coffee & Tea
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Review from Alicia Q.
Vancouver, BC
1/29/2012 1 photo
Really enjoyed the vibe in Matchstick, they did such an amazing job with the layout and decor. It's very open and bright, while still managing to be cozy and inviting. Ordered a latte and besides being clumsy and spilling it on myself (honestly), it was very enjoyable. They were sold out of sandwiches, as I showed up right after a lunch rush, but I was happy to settle for a little brie and jam on baguette action!
Friendly service and had a really wonderful experience at Matchstick. Can't wait to go back! -
Review from Uli L.
Vancouver, BC
2/10/2012 5 Check-ins Here
Traditional cappuccino, clean spacious design and good quality pastries. It seems like a gat place. I hope they find the following they need to survive.
They open at 7am but did not have pastries ready only some limited selection which is not great for the early morning java and croissant addict like me. Will be back for sure since the cappuccinos, my measure for quality and a good understanding of a coffee shop, are excellent. -
Review from Kathleen L.
Vancouver, BC
1/28/2012 1 photo
The moment you enter this place, you can feel the warm energy everywhere. I went for the first time today and was very pleased. The slow brew bar got my heart as I walked into the joint. My friend and I grabbed the last two seats at the beautiful long communal table and got to talking. The atmosphere was buzzing with so many happy people. It was so busy that at one point people were almost hovering over us to get our seat. My friend tried the smoked meat and sauerkraut sandwich. I grabbed a bite and it was delicious with the dijon and what I believe may have been edam. I had a kenyan single cup blend that was delicious and so fresh.
I can't wait to go back and try every other blend. I'm so happy that the owners put so much love into this place. It really shows.Listed in: The Coffee List
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Review from Devina S.
Vancouver, BC
2/1/2012
I'm excited to visit this new coffee shop!! And finally I was able to do so yesterday in the midst of rain. I love their authentic and woody café design. Couple of interesting displays on each corner of the place adds up to a great feeling. My macchiato was smooth and very balance; it had a nice aroma as well! Will definitely check them back in the future and try the baguette.
Great coffee, great people and great café name! -
Review from Lisa A.
Vancouver, BC
4/19/2012
I checked out this place about a month ago. The cafe is in a cool location and the space is amazing! I love how they have designed the interior from the long communal wood table to the lighting and random decor (ie: crow at the front, antlers at the back). Interesting. I like the 'zen' of the place if that makes sense. Nice, chill place. The staff there were SO friendly. Loved my yummy coffee and chocolate pastry (sorry, can't remember what it was called) too.
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Review from Trudi C.
I think I've found a new local :) Clean, smooth latte with a lovely flavor, and a nice flakey warm chic croissant. None of the cold indifference vibe I often feel in Our Town.
I admit when I approached here I felt almost underdressed! It's so stylish and modern, everyone inside looking casual yet smart (and here I was with my Buy Low Foods shopping bag :p). But they were all nice and friendly, smiles all round. The decor is great, all wooden and natural. There already seem to be regulars in here, playing cards, doing papers, reading books. Very cool, I will be back! -
Review from Rose T.
Vancouver, BC
4/11/2012
I love the simple decor and the whole atmosphere of the shop. The coffee was so different from any coffee I've tasted and so good! I will definitely be back.
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Review from Kasimir K.
Vancouver, BC
1/29/2012
Took a client here for cappuccinos and the place was hopping on a Friday at 2PM! Granted they haven't been open very long and have an oddly small number of seats for the large square footage of the place. I walk by this area frequently since we live nearby and it always seems packed. The espresso was smooth on the day we visited.
This block of East 15th has really changed in the years since we moved to Cedar Cottage with great shops aplenty. Will be back to try the food and take in the slow bar. JJ Bean you have serious competition and we don't have to walk to Main anymore. -
Review from Kimberly P.
Vancouver, BC
4/6/2012
My new favourite coffee place. They know their coffee without being jerks about it. Smoothest brew ever.
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Review from Evan D.
Vancouver, BC
4/1/2012 1 Check-in Here
Oh oh... watch out Kafka... I love the coffee here. Geat space in a great block is just icing on the cake.
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Review from Deandra V.
Vancouver, BC
I've been waiting so long for this place to open! And now I have not been disappointed! Just had a quiche and an americano with almond milk. Delicious! Great atmosphere. I could hang out here all day getting jacked up on coffee if I didn't have my own shop to run. Do not miss out on this place. Great neighborhood to walk around in as well to check out the other great shops.
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Review from Allyson C.
Vancouver, BC
2/10/2012
Making my mornings so much better! I live so close to this place and could not wait for it to be open!! Their Americano's are so yummy and the atmosphere is pure east van hipster but with a much friendlier/hello-neighbour kinda vibe. I really love the people, the space and the coffee!!
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Review from Rachel C.
Vancouver, BC
2/4/2012
Beautiful space with lots of natural light. Staff were friendly and my mocha was delicious. I will be back and will definitely recommend this place to my friends. So excited about all of the great new places joining the neighborhood!
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Review from Edward P.
Vancouver, BC
1/22/2012
There has been a lot of buzz about this place over the last few months; none of it unjustified.
They got it right. Great coffee, brewed fresh every time. Good food and fantastic atmosphere only help to make this my new favourite cafe in town.
You really have to see it for yourself. These guys really know what they're doing. -
Review from E C.
Vancouver, BC
2/28/2012
Nice trendy cafe in a former bank. Good quality tea.
