5 Patios to Sip and Savour the Views

Soak in the sun and sip sangria at Elk and Oarsman’s intimate rooftop patio. Or, eat like a king at ‘the Castle’ featuring views of the Fairholme Range and the Bow River at the Fairmont Banff Springs’ Rundle Bar patio The Lookout (pictured above); try their blood orange mojito. The fireside lounge at Maclab Bistro serves stunning Sundance Range views as you rub shoulders with Banff Centre artists-in-residence.

Coffee on Tap at Banff’s New Starbucks 

Starbucks’ new main street location is twice the size. Open to 10 pm, it offers sidewalk seats, new meal possibilities and… coffee on tap! New Nariño 70 Cold Brew coffee that pours from chilled kegs is nitrogen-infused for a naturally sweet flavour and a smooth velvety texture. Prefer a hot coffee? Ask the barista for a Starbucks Reserve from rare beans that produce distinct and enchanting tastes.

Whitebark with a Bite

Rub shoulders with locals at quaint Whitebark Café. Revel in the aroma of fresh brewed coffee as you ponder eclectic baked treats like spicy rhubarb bars and white chocolate raspberry muffins. Recently, long-term employee Gemma whipped me up a mocha (her favourite drink) made with real chocolate that gives it a rich taste. I asked what she loves about Whitebark, and she answered simply, “the people.”