The insiders’ guide to local joys of Kitchener

Some will say that Kitchener doesn’t have a vibe or that it’s simply a suburban city in southwestern Ontario. But Kitchener is a city with history, personality and grit — one that is being driven by its close-knit community, even in the face of change.

Tina Sharpe, owner of Living Fresh Flower Studio (20 Queen St. S.), reinforces that point when talking about the eight years she’s spent in the city’s downtown core as part of a mom-and-pop shop ecosystem. Connected to the historic Walper Hotel, Sharpe’s shop and studio offers an elevated approach to bespoke floral design, and carries a curated assortment of local finds. “The small business owners are very supportive of each other,” says Sharpe, crediting that sense of community as a major reason that her business has been able to remain afloat during the pandemic.

So it should come as no surprise that Sharpe is also a regular at many local gems. Here are some of her favourites:

Every day eats: Cafe Pyrus (305 King St. W.)

Once located in an easy-to-miss spot across from the bus terminal, Cafe Pyrus — an independent cafe and eatery specializing in vegan and eco-friendly meals — now occupies prime downtown real estate near city hall. “They started a reusable container program for their takeout food,” says Sharpe, who’s been a regular for a decade. “You pay a deposit and you can take their container and bring it back in to have it washed.”

Restaurant with the best mood: Public Kitchen & Bar (300 Victoria St. N.)

“Their food is just phenomenal,” Sharpe gushes about the tapas style restaurant that serves up a menu that includes traditional bravas potatoes, juicy seared scallops, and a plant-based burger. “I’m vegetarian but my husband’s not,” she says. “They have something for everyone, a good wine list and great service. The owners are wonderful people and it’s a beautiful dining experience.”

Slowing down with little bit of green: Vogelsang Green (Queen Street North, between Duke Street East and Goudies Lane)

In search of a place downtown to relax? Sharpe suggests the newly resurfaced Vogelsgang Green, a little parkette in the city’s core. “The city did a really nice job with the entire area,” she says. “People can go have their lunch or meet a friend for coffee.”

Best place to get some caffeine: Show & Tell Coffee (30 Ontario St. N.)

Sharpe, who admits that she’s a “coffee fiend,” hits up Show & Tell Coffee to grab a fresh brew. Tucked away on side-street, this spacious, airy café features coffee beans from around the world including Denmark, Germany, and the United Kingdom — which pair perfectly with drool-worthy doughnuts, including a must-try raspberry powder.

Good place to get your greens: Legacy Greens (18 Ontario St. N.)

This market specializes in seasonally-focused produce, providing a more unique offering of fruits and vegetables that are available both in store and via a curated box available weekly for delivery. The community-minded space also encourages employees to sell their own handmade goods, like jewelry, in the form of pop-up events. “ The owner, Jordan Dolson, is very passionate about bringing fresh, healthy foods downtown.”