For this stop on apt613’s Ottawa Café Crawl, we travel to none other than the National Arts Centre for the grand opening of Equator Coffee Roasters’ third location.
Equator, a family-owned coffee shop, was founded in 1998 with the goal of making a difference globally and locally. The name stems from their aim to “equate” the benefit of drinking coffee, not just for the consumer but for all the people along the way. With such deep respect for coffee and the people who grow it, the Almonte-based roastery offers organic specialty coffee and focuses on fair trade purchasing from small-scale farms. In 2016, they were awarded the Best Ottawa Business Award for Performance in Philanthropy.
On April 12, visitors are invited to the café for treats and free drip coffee, from 7am to 8pm, as they soak in the spectacular views of Confederation Square. Those who stick around until sunset can enjoy a special evening event featuring DJ Trevor Walker (shout-out to Lifeboogie!) who will perform from 6pm to 8pm.
Can’t make it to opening day festivities? Unlike the many extraordinary experiences that have come through the National Arts Centre, this one is here to stay. Equator may be nestled in the NAC atrium, but it very much feels like the people’s living room, lending itself to all sorts of meaningful encounters. Whether you’ve had a rough day at the office and need a pick-me-up, or looking for a place to unwind after a spree at the Rideau Centre, or simply strolling by with friends only to find yourselves staying for a show, you are welcome to spend time here and be part of a rejuvenation process that feels more and more accessible as time goes on.
And of course, there’s free Wi-Fi.
Equator Coffee Roasters’ new location is 1 Elgin St. and is open 7am—8pm Monday through Friday, 8am—8pm Saturday, and 9am—8pm on Sunday. Now if this article was your cup of…tea?…try following us on Instagram where we spill all the beans!
