Esquimalt Roasting Company - Victoria, British Columbia

Arin S.

Some of the best coffee around!

My Americano was one of the best I’ve had in town and my friend very much enjoyed her iced Mocha.

However. I’ll be honest - I was surprised to have been charged a “to go” cup fee of $0.30 per item. Plus, a $0.50 “iced” fee. Obviously it’s not a huge margin and something that perhaps helps keep menu pricing lower, but my suggestion would be to have it visually clear and/or ask the staff to give a heads up to the customer before charging. Frankly, it comes off as slightly deceitful, which I’m sure isn’t the intention here.

I more than understand operating costs being factored into menu pricing, but understandably it caught me off guard to have been charged extra without my knowing until viewing the receipts. Would much prefer to tip higher next time than be surprised with a to-go and iced fee - my small input to an obviously lovely establishment and the only thing stopping me from an obvious 5 star review!

Definitely recommending to friends!

Josh B.

This is a fantastic addition to the area!! The coffee and service are spectacular and I would strongly recommend their breakfast sandwich! I also hosted a couple events, called ahead and picked up their cookies (their gingersnap cookies are mind-blowingly delicious) and other snacks - and they were a huge hit! I just wish they had a loyalty punch card.

Clara K.

Highlight of this place was the atmosphere. Doors open all the way to the outside showing a nice courtyard and has a cozy vibe. Plenty of seating and outlets for study. Drinks and pastries are pretty good.

Mike R.

I've been going to ERC since the first inception at their first location. Fundamentally, the coffee is fantastic - some of the best on the island. The new(er) space is great and really is a community hub. I, however, want to particularly shout out to show my appreciation for the team today. In a moment of clumsiness (of many in a regular day), I dropped and smashed a jar full of beans I just bought in the square. The team was quick to come out to help me clean up and offered some beans to make up for it. They really made what could have been a "meh" day become a great one!

Mike S.

Great coffee, a consistent product and friendly staff. Cozy seating area and a great patio. My go to coffee shop in Esquimalt.

Sheila F.

Great coffee shop in a great location, with art gallery and plaza. Indoor and outdoor seating. Nice washrooms. Same building as the public library.

David D.

A 4.9 average from hundreds of reviews is hard to achieve.

And it drew a more critical eye. Is it deserved?

Looking more closely than usual, there were a couple of nits: cashier mixed up the drink order (no Americano please) but this was quickly resolved, milk foam did have some large-ish bubbles (see picture) and the chocolate croissant / pain au chocolate was only average.

That said, the large latte was delicious. Remarkably so. Espresso was thus beautifully dialed in given the amount of milk.

The space / location is fantastic. Love the branded table legs and the feature big-leaf maple live edge group table. Little touches like power outlets at the booth tables are appreciated.

I entered from the laneway side, and it almost seemed closed. And even possibly low budget with the hours crayons onto the window.

Entering, though, exposed a beautiful space. The other side is majestic, opening onto a lovely courtyard with a HUGE accordion doorway.

Talk about inviting. You just want to find an excuse to put off the days business and hang out here all day long.

Ross M.

I wish they would install a bicycle rack closer to the cafe. Developers like to hide racks away from businesses, yet cyclists will only take a bike if they can park it in sight, especially in a town known for constant bike theft. Otherwise great place!