This is the beginning of a possible series on coffee shops and casual meeting spots in the Hamilton, Ontario area. Finding something that meets the needs of the casual meeting can be a bit tough to do with search and random AI machinations, so I thought, what better way than to go visit some of these spots and give my opinion of them.
The plan was to meet an old acquaintance here; it fit best into finding a space in between, and one that served coffee. There is definitely a theme to these posts. It’s all about having a coffee with a friend or scoping out a place to have a coffee, tea, etc., with a new acquaintance.
Durand Coffee is a great little coffee shop. Independent, casual, and easy to find. I parked on the street nearby. Parking is fairly available on the local residential streets. I only walked a block, but passed a few parking spots as I did.
Durand offers a good selection of coffees. At a glance, it appears they focus on Peruvian. I’m not much of a coffee snob. I know what I like, but I am also open to recommendations from the barista or service person taking my order. This being the case, I asked the young woman what she recommended. I didn’t catch the name, but it was some sort of espresso shaker. I accepted, and the drink was prepared quickly.
The seating area is a bit small inside (there is outside seating on picnic tables). However, I found a small high table with a single chair where I enjoyed what tasted like Bailey’s Irish Cream on the rocks. It was quite good.
There is also a small boutique shop attached to Durand Coffee. I didn’t investigate, but I recall there being syrups and other drink-related products on the shelves.
If there is no place you want to sit, the neighborhood is quiet and conducive to a nice walk. Keep that in mind as the Durand prepares drinks for sit-in or to go.