Environmental Studies Coffee Shop

EV1, 200 University Ave W #138, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
+1 519-888-4567 ext. 35044
$$$ Cafe , Coffee shop
(77 Reviews)
Price Range $1–10

If you find yourself wandering through the bustling halls of the University of Waterloo, make sure to stop by the Environmental Studies Coffee Shop. Nestled within the basement of EV1, at 200 University Ave W #138, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, this charming café is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. With a passion for sustainability and community, this shop is run completely by volunteers who pour their heart and soul into every cup of coffee served.

The café’s menu is a delightful blend of flavors that cater to both vegetarian and vegan diets. Indulge in their savory samosas or opt for the hearty meat rice dish or wholesome rice dish for a satisfying meal. Vegan patrons will revel in their selection of vegan rice dishes, complemented by scrumptious brownies and energy-packed energy explosions. And let’s not forget the drink options: from refreshing tea to rich lattes and fruity lemonades, there’s something for everyone’s palette.

Step inside, and you'll immediately feel a welcoming vibe. The air is filled with the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee, inviting you to sit back and relax. Customer reviews glow with admiration for the great atmosphere and affordable prices that this café offers. Ian Blainey shares a heartfelt note, praising the café as a “lovely place to grab a coffee” and praising its volunteer-driven operations. Bella couldn't help but rave about the amazing coffee and friendly staff that make every visit special.

What sets the Environmental Studies Coffee Shop apart is its commitment to sustainable practices. Kavitha R. notes the importance of keeping green, especially when you can use your own coffee mug and return it for a free drink. If you’re a student looking for a place to unwind, Daniel Hall recommends this café for its great variety of snacks, and guaranteed promotions that make budgeting a breeze. With reviews consistently highlighting the café's incredible value for money, it’s no wonder that visitors like Matthias K. make it a point to return each time they're at UWaterloo.

So, whether you’re grabbing a quick bite between classes, looking for a cozy spot to study, or simply in the mood for a delicious cup of coffee made with love, the Environmental Studies Coffee Shop is the place to be. Its community-driven spirit, coupled with top-notch flavors and sustainable practices, makes it an essential stop for anyone seeking more than just a caffeine fix.

Service options
Takeaway
Dine-in
Delivery
Highlights
Great coffee
Great tea selection
Popular for
Solo dining
Good for working on laptop
Offerings
Coffee
Quick bite
Dining options
Dessert
Table service
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Crowd
Groups
University students
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Debit cards
Openings Hours

Monday

Closed

Tuesday

10:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Wednesday

10:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Thursday

10:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Friday

10:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Saturday

Closed

Sunday

Closed

77 Reviews
Ian Blainey

06 Sep 2025

Great food, and a lovely place to grab a coffee if you're in Environment 1. Run wonderfully entirely by volunteers.

Bella

02 Sep 2025

Amazing prices, great atmosphere, amazing coffee made by the volunteers! Deffo visit if you’re in the area!!!

Daniel Hall

18 Aug 2025

The student cafe has great coffee and has a good variety of snacks. The price is right and they always have promotions running - check it out if you're a student!

Kavitha R.

20 Jul 2025

I love this place. I was just chatting with the student volunteers today and they are so sweet. What’s more, the coffee is really good. This place is run with sustainability practices in mind (part of the environment faculty’s goal) and the coffee is affordable :D

Visha Vijayanand

11 Jul 2025

Best vegan treats and sustainable practices. Use a coffee mug while studying and return it for free. Keep being green.

Matthias K.

09 Jul 2025

Every time I am back at UWaterloo, I go into the basement for their coffee. Really good (also extremely good value for money)!

Jess Zhang

21 Jun 2025

Best prices you'll find anywhere, for good quality drinks and food. Great people, aesthetic, lounge etc.

Richard Cunningham

26 May 2025

A well-kept secret, mostly due to its basement location in EV1. Fair trade and organic food and drink - bring your own mug

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