Welcome to the fourth edition of the Daily Happenings. Today, I’d like to put the spotlight on a hidden gem in Port Dalhousie. I didn’t even know this place existed until my mom randomly pointed it out as we drove by. After some intense google research (not really), I knew I had to make a stop there one of these days. Since finding out about this piece of paradise, I’ve made it my goal to visit at least once a season to see what’s new.
Following them on Instagram is absolute torture for me. Everything looks so good! They’re always updating their menu with new items coming in almost weekly. If I lived nearby, I’d never leave… or at least until they kick me out.
Let’s take a journey to Thistle Bookshop and Café in Port Dalhousie.
Port Dalhousie Hidden Gem
Thistle Café looks like it should be in a movie scene. It’s not your average café. When you step into this magical world, you’re surrounded by books. There’s a small barista area to the left. It’s enclosed by a display of assorted cakes, cookies, squares, and other delicacies.
My first visit was right before Halloween. Even though they had pumpkin spice latte on the menu, I ended up grabbing a cinnamon maple latte. It was the perfect addition to a sunny fall Sunday afternoon in October. I didn’t end up getting a baked good on this trip, which I ended up thoroughly regretting.
Overall, I was really impressed. The cinnamon maple latte was crafted to perfection. It’s an incredible place to spend a good chunk of the day. Plus, after you’re finished, you can venture around Port Dalhousie and check out other local shops and stroll by the water.
Thistle at Christmas
Although Thistle Café is small and quaint, it is absolute heaven. There are only a few tables available, but you can also stroll through and check out all the books they have available for sale. They also have seasonal trinkets. I remember at Christmas time, they had some Christmas socks.
They had tons of seasonal drinks and desserts. I couldn’t resist the sugar cookie latte, but they also had a ginger bread latte, peppermint mocha, and other festive flavours. It’s really hard to not go crazy and buy everything you set your eyes on. I also grabbed a shortbread cookie that was dipped in chocolate and had some Christmas sprinkles. It was pure bliss.
Love is in The Air
Once in a while, Thistle does free latte day. They give out free lattes to the first 200 customers. I set an alarm and went there early in the morning. Was it worth it? You bet it was. They also had pink hot chocolate for those that didn’t want the lattes.
The Valentine’s latte had conversation hearts on top. Over time, they started melting into the latte and gave it an extra sweet flavour. I don’t know how often they do the free latte day, but I’ll definitely be at the next one.
Of course I couldn’t resist the dessert selection. I picked up a Cowboy cookie and Valentine’s brownie. So, despite free lattes, they still made a buck off of me. I had no idea what a Cowboy cookie was, but it looked amazing and I had to try it.
The Coziest Café Ever
As I said before, Thistle is an incredible quaint spot to chill, read, drink, and eat. When you’re finished, you can stroll around historic Port Dalhousie. Admire the old architecture, ride on the carousel, or experience a dreamy sunset on the beach. Thistle Bookshop and Café is a must see place in the Niagara region.
Great article. I really need to check this place out. Thank you for sharing