The Best Cafes in Markham: Where to Enjoy a Great Cup of Coffee

Markham is a vibrant city filled with rich culture, excellent food, and an ever-growing coffee scene. Whether you're a local looking for a new go-to spot or just visiting, you'll find plenty of charming cafes serving high-quality coffee, delicious treats, and inviting atmospheres.

As someone who absolutely loves discovering the best places to enjoy a cup of coffee, here are my top recommendations for cafes in Markham that you must visit.

Stae Cafe (Hwy 7 & Ninth Line)

Nestled in the Box grove neighbourhood of Markham close to Hwy 7 and Ninth Line. Stae Cafe is an absolute gem for coffee lovers. What sets this cafe apart is its exceptional quality of coffee and matcha that they use. Unlike many places where matcha can be overly sweet (added sugars) or bitter, Stae Cafe perfects the balance offering a pure and smooth matcha latte that is rich in flavour. The minimalist yet cozy interior makes it a great spot to catch up with a friend, get some work done, or simply enjoy a moment of peace with a high-quality drink in hand. Their matcha cookies and salted chocolate chip cookies are a MUST try!

Another charming touch? Every drink order is paired with a delightful madeleine—it's such a thoughtful detail that adds a little something special to the experience.

What I also love about Stae Cafe is how the owner continuously refreshes the menu each season. Whether it’s a cozy winter blend or a refreshing summer creation, there’s always something new to try. It keeps regulars excited to come back, knowing our taste buds will be challenged and delighted with every visit.

Tangy Cafe (Hwy 7 & Warden Avenue)

If you're on the go but still want a high-quality cup of coffee, Tangy Cafe is the perfect pick-up-and-go spot. Conveniently located at Hwy 7 and Warden Avenue, it's ideal for busy mornings or a quick treat.

My go-to drink here is the Hojicha latte—it’s incredibly smooth, well-balanced, and never gritty. They use a premium Hojicha powder sourced from Japan, and the quality truly shines through with every sip.

What a lovely little spot. The owners are so friendly and kind. They make their pastries in-house fresh daily. The pistachio croissant muffin (cruffin) was flaky on the outside and beautifully buttery on the inside.

If you’re into espresso like I am, I highly recommend trying their dirty oat hojicha, it was so smooth and well balanced. The matcha latte also delivers—it’s rich, smooth, and not overly sweet. And don’t miss out on their sea salt chocolate scone—it pairs perfectly with a good cup of coffee and is soft, moist, and satisfying.

There are only two bar seats by the window, so seating can be limited. But there’s plenty of parking available, making it a convenient spot to grab something delicious to go.

A Corner’s Cafe (Hwy 7 & McCowan Rd)

A Corner’s Cafe is located right across the street from Markville Mall. It is a large, lively space with lots of seating and a welcoming atmosphere for all kinds of visitors. Whether you're a student studying for exams, a young professional getting some work done, a group of moms catching up over brunch, or friends enjoying a casual game of cards, this café has something for everyone. It’s suitable for families and singles alike, offering a versatile space that adapts to whatever vibe you bring.

If you’re looking for a place to sit down and truly relax—or hang out with friends—this is it. The cafe offers board games and card games for guests, making it a great spot to unwind, connect, and linger a little longer. But also you can bring your own laptop and get some work done in the co-working tables located in the middle of the cafe.

Their chicken and waffles is a go-to comfort dish, and the Eggs Benedict is a solid brunch favourite—both hearty and satisfying. But if you're in need of a serious caffeine boost, don’t miss their Vietnamese Iced Coffee. It’s bold, strong, and will definitely keep you going all day.

Their cortado is also a personal favourite—balanced, smooth, and just the right size. The menu is full of thoughtful options, and the warm, casual vibe makes it an easy place to settle into for a while.

With friendly service, comforting food, and plenty of room to spread out, A Corner’s Cafe is one of those local gems that welcomes everyone with open arms.

Alchemy Coffee (Hwy 7 & Main St Unionville)

If you appreciate specialty coffee and beautifully designed spaces, Alchemy Coffee is a must-visit. Known for their carefully sourced beans and skilled baristas. They offer an outstanding selection of espresso-based drinks and pour-over options. Their commitment to high-quality coffee makes this spot a favourite among coffee enthusiasts.

It’s a super cozy café with mainly two-seater tables, making it ideal for meeting up with a friend or enjoying a peaceful solo coffee. You’ll find it easier to grab a table on weekdays, but on weekends, it can be a bit tricky unless you go early. Still, the intimate atmosphere and high-quality coffee make it well worth the visit.

Library Specialty Coffee (Hwy 7 & Rodick Rd)

Library Specialty Coffee is located at Hwy 7 and Rodick Road in the First Markham Centre. This spot is a perfect blend of high-quality coffee and excellent service.

They only serve coffee, and particularly their milk-based drinks are excellent! My favourite place to get a cappuccino.

The coffee here is amazing—really good! Their beans are carefully sourced and brewed with precision, resulting in a truly satisfying and flavourful experience with every sip.

The space is clean and minimal, giving it a calm, uncluttered feel. It’s ideal for a quiet solo coffee break or a focused work session. Though seating is limited, the quality and attention to detail make it well worth the visit.

Conclusion

Markham’s cafe scene is growing, offering an amazing selection of coffee spots for every type of coffee lover. Whether you’re looking for the perfect matcha latte at Stae Cafe, a cozy brunch spot like A Corner’s Cafe, or a specialty coffee experience at Alchemy Coffee. There’s no shortage of great places to explore. If you’re ever in the area, be sure to visit these cafes and indulge in some of the best coffee Markham has to offer. Also feel free to share with me if you know of any other hidden gems!