Duncan Garage Café & Bakery in Duncan

Beautiful art exhibit currently. I will definitely visit when Im in town next.

Healthy, happy, locally owned cafe/bakery. Whole food ingredients, leaving you full and satisfied. Cute location and lots of seating. Kid friendly as well. Vegetarian options: Tones of vegetarian/vegan options!

Nice spot for some breakfast. We had the breakfast burrito, it came out hot and was delish. Drip coffee tasted a bit burnt to me but would still recommend the garage.

So glad I discovered this place .. was on a road trip and looked for a place to meet up with a friend .. great atmosphere.. I only had coffee but watched what others had and I will definitely be back to sample the offerings

All their food is organic and local. Really delicious and healthy!! They support environment.

We encountered a long line it moved fast, though food was good.

We wanted to love this place and we did really enjoy the wholesome atmosphere and excellent baked goods. We chose the Hungry People Breakfast and a scone to share. Scone was good. The scrambled eggs on the main meal were fine but the rest of the plate consisted of dry toast (I had to ask for butter), dried out fried potatoes and vegetarian sausage. The veggie sausage was thin slices of a type we didn t recognize and the cashier didn t know if it contained soy so I had to skip it. Altogether, I would suggest ordering something else. Coffee was ok. Dietary restrictions: The cashier wasn t able to tell me if there was soy in the sausage.

Favourite place to eat in Duncan

Great quality food, very neat atmosphere. No meat options though.

Marvelous and unexpected. Food is amazing. Baked goods, smoothies, and service was excellent. The venue is such a cool laid back vibe. Great hang out place!

The food, drinks and atmosphere here are always beautiful. The garage classic shake, sour dough pizza and sunshine breakfast are my go tos.

Stopped here a few times during our visit to the island. Great quirky little place that is obviously very popular. On the whole the food we had on all visits was excellent. Really fresh, interesting flavours, and loads of choice that was all pretty decent value for money. However, I was a bit dissapointed by the oatmeal. Ill admit that I am fussy about how I have mime and maybe its just how you guys have it over here in Canada....but for this reason I specifically asked if it was made with milk...which I was told it was (even though seemed odd that it also then came with a side of a milk of your choice) ...it was 100% made with water and was pretty tasteless and gross. We came in with our 6month old. She puts everything in her mouth and likes to chew the edge of the tables so weve taken to wiping them down first. All the times we came the wipes were pretty grey from wiping the tables, even first thing in the morning. A minor gripe that probably wont really make much of a difference to whether or not youre going to visit here! Unless you too are planning to suck the tables. All in all. Dont eat the tables. Avoid the oatmeal unless youre weird and also like yours made with water. But otherwise stop in for some lovely fresh tasting and varied food.

Great food as always, so busy at lunch though

A must visit during any time in Duncan! This place is so great. It s got the coolest and most friendly vibe. The food is amazing here too with plenty of brilliant vegan and vegetarian options! Baked goods are mouthwatering. Lots of lovely hot and cold drinks too- definitely try their iced raspberry matcha if you re a matcha fan! It was delicious and so refreshing. We stop by here whenever we are in town, and it s never disappointed us! Always just puts a huge smile on our faces and leaves us feeling good. Vegetarian options: plenty of awesome veggie options!! clearly a lot of love and thought has been put in. The rice bowl is BRILLIANT!

Stopped in while passing through town for a sourdough loaf to take camping. Ended up raving about the bread to anyone who would listen. It was outstanding sourdough!

The Duncan Garage singlehandedly made me rethink Duncan. Its a perfect place to grab a coffee and a snack before you browse the bookstore or walk the area around the old train station. Absolutely worth a visit!

I waited in line for 20 minutes for one cup of coffee. It was good coffee.

We met a couple of the owners of the Duncan Garage Cafe and Bakery while floating down the Cowichan River today. We told them how much we enjoyed our visit to the Garage on Monday and they gave me a free sample of salted caramel goodness. The people and the food at the actual Garage are equally great 6 out of 5 stars. You should definitely go there!

The young lady who took my order got my name wrong. As a result, when my order was completed, they were calling a name that wasn t mine. No big deal; mistakes happen. However, the person making the drinks responded by saying they had called my name several times without any response seemingly suggesting it was my fault the wrong name was being called. Well, eventually I got my food. I ordered the Mexican Black Bean Wrap. The most unimaginative and tasteless dish I have ever had. It is this kind of creation that gives North American vegetarian food a bad rap. Adding a little salsa would have made it more Mexican and added a little flavour. I tried to salvage the dish with sriracha sauce but sadly, it did very little to improve the taste and salvage my meal. I have had other food at this restaurant which was much better. I ll give it another try.

Great place to grab a coffee and snack!

UPDATE: Ive lowered my rating because it seems like every time I order the vegan sweet potato spelt cinnamon bun, I get the regular non-vegan one and yes, I specifically ask for the vegan sweet potato spelt cinnamon bun. I wont be returning until they sort this out as this has happened the last 4 times Ive ordered it. What is the point of labelling your food vegan if a vegan is going to walk out with a non-vegan item? Love this place. Great staff, great food, and fun vibe! I especially like the sweet potato cinnamon buns as a sweet treat. I appreciate the clear labelling of the vegan items. Definitely my favourite place in Duncan for a quick meal.

I really liked that place, awesome food and Ambiente is awesome.

Excellent. Highly recommended.

My personal favourite spot to refuel whenever I have the opportunity to visit Duncan!

Very good foot but terrible coffe. Cannot make flat white.

The food is quite good. Its not very cheap, but it is worth the money.

Amazing food always, hip & funky place to go get a yummy snack, coffees, Beautiful lunch or anything meal, vegan & vegetarian mostly & just so so so good. Vegetarian options: Tons!

If you are in Duncan and looking for breakfast Look no Further !!! 6 stars out of 5!

I used to stop in for a cinnamon bun while travelling up island. They were perfectly fluffy and sticky. The last two times I came by, they were flat and dense pucks. Whoever is baking these now doesnt know what they are doing or doesnt care. Ill be going to Old Town in Ladysmith instead. For a similarly priced bun, that is just not acceptable.

Interesting choices

Wonderful food and great beverages

Not sure why a restaurant would open at 7:30 yet not have food menu posted until after 8. Dont most restaurants have their food specials and menus prepared the night before...

Such a cool place and location is everything. Went there last week for a coffee with friends and it was buzzing with energy.

Staff are always friendly. Service is fast and the food is excellent. Prices are a bit higher but worth it. Vegan, vegetarian and gluten free options available.

Always have a great time here ! Food and staff are always so great!

It s an active piece with loudness, but it s a place to go if you want to feel part of things.

So far, everything Ive had from the Garage has been great, including todays lunch.... one of the best, most interesting sandwiches Ive had in a long time! And, super friendly, helpful staff. Food

It s the best cafe in town without a doubt! Fantastic food and really nice atmosphere. It s almost always busy. All their food is locally sourced, vegetarian and organic. You really can t go wrong here. Parking: Lots of parking available across the street. The ones in the front and to the left are all free 2 hours but if you go to the right it turns to paid parking.

Good food. Friendly staff. Vegetarian options: Its all plant based. Food : 4/5 |

This is a little gem of Duncan . A hub and a wonderful meeting place. Great gluten free and vegetarian food available. It s a real shame their stuff wasn t a little more friendly I ve noticed this my last few times going here in this morning the woman behind the counter was the least friendly of them all and quite grumpy looking. Even when I said thank you at the end of my order there was no response. I could understand if it was super busy but it wasn t . I was the only one . Part of the experience of getting a beverage in the morning getting to say good morning to the person at the counter. Body language even speaks a lot. Smiles go a long way. This morning it felt like there was a robot working behind the counter. Pretty disappointing!

Awesome. This place has been on my radar to stop in at on my way down island for a time now, glad I stopped in today. Everything we ate was delicious and the staff were friendly. Food was served quickly. Will definitely be back.

Definitely a go-to place when in Duncan. Food is great, and although itll be busy, youll get through the line quickly, and theres always a seat.

Best London Fog in Duncan (using Westholme tea!). It can be busy so service can be slow due to this but it s busy for a reason :)

Great food, the coffee though was too bitter and none of us liked it.

Overpriced. So-so quality

Good pizza an cupcakes Wheelchair accessibility: On ground facility Food : 5/5 |

First time here and I will definitely make a habit of coming back here again when I head up island. The quality of food was great! Just wish I had a larger portion. Very well staffed at the front and the back end seemed to be on point. Large area with a few different seating areas. It was nice! Originally confused where the lunch menu was when I walked it as there was only a coffee menu. Didn t say anywhere else where that menu was. Could be useful to have that information posted somewhere more noticeable. Overall I ll be back

Duncan Garage for me is the heart and soul of Duncan. The vegan desserts are great and there is always a vegan meal offered.

If you are in the area you should drop in for lunch. You may have to share a table with others, but the food is worth it. I hit the jackpot with the pizza so now it s hard for me to pick anything else. So yeah, try the pizza!

I used to LOVE the Duncan Garage. Im sad to say however, the last few times I ve gone, I ve found the food consistently meh . The prices have gone up a lot, and do not reflect my previous enjoyment. I can t justify going for a meal anymore.

Great place! Located in the center of Duncan, this little café also containing a small shop is a real cozy little corner where you can enjoy delicious pastries such as an absolutely delicious strawberry chocolate scone, hot coffee and protein smoothie! I recommend 100% for a relaxing time :)

Great pizza

Interesting place, food was good although rather expensive.

Really good food. Only issue I have is that the portions are small and their soup and sandwich combo only really comes with 1/2 cup of soup at most. It was almost comical how small the soup was.

Good food, good drinks, good people.

I love, love, live visiting The Garage in Duncan. The quality if food is phenomenal, and although there is often a wait, its worth the time.

Food is great. Worth stopping by since I was in town.

Food was healthy and delicious. Has an eclectic atmosphere that adds to the whole experience. Will definitely go back.

The book store next door is lovely.

Best espresso! Great treats! Super friendly staff! Stop for a cup and after go to the bookstore to browse... If you are in Duncan, you have to stop there!

2 large coffee $5.40...cup broke on first sip...suppose to be dark roast ...weak and acidic...

The butternut squash Mac and cheese tho!!!!!

Fantastic selection of vegan, vegetarian, gluten free etc meals. Everything you could want from baked goods, hot meals and take-home freezer items. Its always, rightfully so, quite busy but there is lots of seating and they use a speaker to announce when your food is ready. If youre in Duncan or driving through be sure to check this place out.

Awesome food and treats, lots of gluten free options.

The place is so popular, that seating was impossible and just moving was difficult. I cant blame them for that, but I honestly would not return unless it was a non meal time. I was surprised at the number of things that werent fresh too. 14$ or whatever for a wrapped sandwich from the fridge isnt appealing.

HAVE THE HONEY BUN. also the garage gateau! Vegetarian options: Vegan, gluten-free, paleo options Parking: Lots of parking Kid-friendliness: Very kid friendly

Unique layout......food selection looked good. Quiche had potatoes in it....which was also ...ummmm....unique. I enjoyed my chai latte and appreciated the space between tables as there is lots of room.

Cool atmosphere friendly staff and solid vegan options! Dietary restrictions: Both Vegan and gluten free options

Easily one of the best bakeries/cafes on the island! We keep going back to this little gem whenever we can for the amazing vegan baked goods and the delicious coffee. Everything weve had is soooooo good!!! Friendly and kind staff always! 6 stars out of 5!

Great place for lunch!

Great coffee shop with lots of unique dishes

Lovely casual dining.

Huge selection food & sweets. Good coffee. Great bookstore same location. Nice place to meet and chat with people. All ages, all backgrounds. Fun & funky in a good way.

The Duncan Garage is a Cowichan classic. Be warned: it is hectic in there when busy and there is a solid chance your order will get messed up, but that is the fault of the people who designed the ordering layout, not the staff. Why are they not open on Sundays? It would be the perfect place for brunch or early coffee. The spelt cinnamon bun rules. Dietary restrictions: They have good vegan and gluten-free options!

Terrific tourist location!!

cute space but staff is quick to brush u off and unhelpful. drinks taste like a whisper of the flavour that they re supposed to be and the food we got felt like they accidentally served us plastic display food

This place just simply ROCKS as do the staff!

Food is always amazing!

Been going here with my daughter since she was a few days old, she is now 11 months! The staff are attentive and helpful and the food is amazing! As a European who loves good food, I have found this difficult to achieve in Canada! This place is amazing and I always pop in when I am in Cowichan Valley! Everything is changing with the seasons which keeps the menu fresh and exciting! Keep up the excellent work :)

Visit whenever I come to Duncan. Lot s of options for folks with food restrictions. High quality organic and local ingredients. Always grab a bag of their bagels from the freezer and espresso on the way out, both which are delicious. Excellent job you guys!

The best coffee place bar none

I love this place. The food is amazing. The atmosphere is amazing. The only thing that s not amazing is the price. But I still go anyway! Vegetarian options: It s completely vegetarian and has tons of vegan options. Parking: There s tons of street parking but on a busy day and Duncan, you might have an issue Kid-friendliness: Very kid friendly!

Reasonable priced, local, delicious and healthy food. I look forward to coming here whenever I m in the Cowichan Valley. I wish every town had a similar place to eat!

One of the good places in Duncan... just underwhelmed by their enchiladas (breakfast and lunch). Very little to no sauce and they used polenta. Just not a fan of it. The bagelwich on the other hand... delish!

They love their job for sure, they were counting down seconds before closing!? And the worst espresso I had in 2023 so far. (I drink couple espressos a day)

A very popular place Service is fast, very tasty food, lots of greens. And not to pricy Food

Food was good and inexpensive; the portion sizes are on the smaller side, though it wasnt a problem. Seating is plentiful, but it gets rather stuffy inside. Lots of options for those with restrictive diets. Vegetarian options: Many vegan and vegetarian options.

Food is always amazing. Wish there were some quieter options for seating for people with noise sensitivities.

Well-priced organic cafe and bakery with alot of vegan and gluten-free options for desserts, drinks, and salads. The fruit popsicle was tasty, only $2.5, and a wide selection of chilled flavoured drinks based on coconut water or kombucha, around $3 a can. Also had gluten free apple pie $6.5, it was tasty and big so took it home.

Great spot for healthy food!

Always healthy choices here and very good

The Garage has become a favorite spot to stop in to work, grab a bite to eat, or meet with friends. Its a great community space that were really lucky to have in Duncan. The bakers are talented, the staff is super kind and easy going and the whole place has that homely vibe you hope for in a local hangout. Try the sourdough but please dont but the last loaf, Im probably on my way to pick it up.

Yesterday we have been the first time at this place and we loved it, so we have to come by today again:) the coffee, tea and paisteries are excellent. Even though the service is quite busy, they are very friendly. The atmosphere gets close to a market hall, therefore a lot to see and discover while enjoying your coffee here. Unfortunately we leave Duncan so we cant come by again, but we warmly recommend this place for people, who love having a coffee at a local busy place.

Good recommendations from staff

Ordered 2 pesto breakfast sandwiches. We waited half an hour. I asked for the eggs to be soft. Not over cooked since I saw an assembly line of dry eggs sitting on the hot plate waiting to be served. Well, the 2 sandwiches were dry and lifeless with sad hard over cooked eggs. A & W breakfast sandwiches would have been a way better choice. Fast service. Fresh, warm and delicious eggs with tomatoes and lettuce. And I could have stayed in Victoria with my granddaughters. I drove up the Malahat with high expectations and excitement... Never again.

Great atmosphere & friendly staff. Some of their specialty menu items have been disappointing in the past, especially for the price, but their staple menu items are always top quality. Be prepared for a line up during lunch time. Lots of opportunities to support local here :)

Nice coffee and atmosphere.

Been coming here since I was a kid, STILL the BEST place in Duncan.

It was very crowded at lunchtime and therefore very noisy. It was like a canteen. Unfortunately the enchilada was bland, but the rice bowl was very good. The service was nice.

Had no time to take pictures, they wont give this place any justice anyway, and we were too busy enjoying ourselves. If you ever decide to simply drive through Duncan without stopping, that is your loss. Or you can do the right thing and stop by. Close enough to the highway, and far enough from the highway. Once you finished your favourite drink of relaxation and whatever supporting food you prefer to energise your body for a long drive, stop by at the book store and find something for your mind. At this sanctuary of a great collection it is going to be a breeze. With your piece of mind and hope in long distance travel restored, you will enjoy the rest of your day, wherever you go.

Love the atmosphere here and a wide range of vegan/vegetarian options. Their coffee is really good and gluten free desserts are all delicious as well! Very upbeat vibe. Food

Interesting place. Lousy signage. Great snacks.

Staff talk while working. Always a smile no matter how busy. Great healthy food!

Good food, good atmosphere, cant complain. Excellent veggie-heavy breakfast options. Dietary restrictions: Good accommodations for various food sensitivities

If you order food, dont order anything that you want hot. Cold pizza isnt what I ordered, not what I wanted. The pizza came lukewarm, and when I requested it be reheated, I was told that this wasnt possible due to health regulations. Replacement of the cold, apparently unreheatable food, wasnt offered. (I have since asked the lovely folks at Wild Poppy in Ladysmith about this; they said there is no such rule.) I left my cold pizza that Id paid for. Though the manager was alerted, s/he didnt bother to check with me. I didnt eat. My friend, though her food was also not hot, decided shed eat it rather than not. So, I recommend Ladysmith food, which was delicious, over Duncans Garage. I certainly wont return to the latter.

Very disappointing breakfast. Muffin and quiche had no taste, breakfast skillet very uninteresting in spite of a stellar list of ingredients. Coffee was excellent and a great vibe in the seating area. Cheerful counter service. Wont be going there again.

Nice food, but espresso way too long, so it was bitter; maybe the machine was overdue for cleaning.

I pick up an Americano today. It was amazing, I love their coffee, always good!

Soup was amazing Very holsome and tastie. Dietary restrictions: Vegan and gluten free dishes available and flagged on menu as such

Great vegetarian and organic local food. The atmosphere is super casual and no table service but it s prompt, and best of all real food prepared fresh. This is the kind of place you want if you care about where your food comes from! Vegetarian options: All food is vegetation.

Rain or shine. This is our favorite place to hang out.

Very expensive for type of goodies available, but the staff are always friendly and well groomed, bathrooms are kept clean and we like the separate & roomy handicap/family bathroom. Wheelchair accessibility: People on our island are always extra helpful and friendly! Also the Garage is set up well for the ease of movement when pushing my wifes wheelchair...

Super busy at around 3pm but worth the wait.

I had a 16oz apple cider with a little bit of Chai and added caramel. Id kill a person for another under the right circumstances.

Although large it is broken up into several areas for meeting, seating. Warm cosy atmosphere. Food

I got a coffee and a double chocolate gluten-free free zucchini muffin (yummy). Coffee is good as well! Great choices for vegan options all looks delicious!

The food and service from the front counter staff were great. However, had a really poor experience from the individual working our area. Came to work with some co-workers, and we had combined two tables. As soon as we set up, we were told that we were not allowed to combine the tables as we werent enough people for the table and that this was not a work space. The individual treated us different from everyone else that was in that area. We did not get a greeting or anything. However, many other tables did. The only thing that was visibly different for us was that our computers had LGBTQIA+ stickers on them. I would like to assume positive intent here, but we felt very singled out and treated very poorly. Will not be coming here again as we do not feel welcome there.

Great coffee place!

Haute metaphysique by Frank Hatem Q &A will take place there soon : cf soon on notice board.

Best organic food restaurant!!! Yummy!

Duncan Garage Café & Bakery is a hidden gem that absolutely deserves a visit. The food here is awesome - every dish is a delightful experience, combining great taste with high-quality ingredients. But its not just the food that makes this place stand out; the service is equally impressive. The staff are friendly and attentive, ensuring a pleasant dining experience. What really sets this café apart is its unique charm. Its a little cafe that packs a big punch in terms of food quality and ambiance. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, perfect for a casual meal or a catch-up with friends. And lets not forget the coffees and other hot drinks they are fantastic! Each cup is crafted with care, making it a great spot for any coffee enthusiast or anyone looking to enjoy a warm, comforting beverage. All in all, Duncan Garage Café & Bakery offers a wonderful combination of delicious food, great service, and a uniquely enjoyable atmosphere.

Nice options

the best breakfast in duncan ,,, And lunch as well ,,, also frsh bread etc love this place

So good

I first started coming here years ago because it was a shorter drive than Ladysmith to get yummy cinnamon buns. Ive since grown to appreciate the friendly atmosphere and great coffee.

Amazing pizza

Not going back, bought 2 smoothie and spanakopita, a slice of mousse cake and paid almost $35. The smoothie was not even that cold, spanakopita was dry very disappointed, not worth it. The only good thing was the workers were very friendly.

I love coming to the garage for coffee & fellowship. But the new, 49th parallel coffee is quite a disappointment. I drink it black so it has to taste good & smooth, not bitter. I can speculate on why this was done but it has resulted in me being unable to drink your coffee. -I ve tried the drip & your Americano all quite an unpleasant taste. Hope you find a better coffee source one day.

Amazing Fresh Foods! Vegetarian options: Lots of choices Parking: lots out front Wheelchair accessibility: ground level entry

Great coffee and amazing food.

We ordered Sunshine and Green Breakfast Bowl . Both of them were tasted so fresh, healthy and delicious! Besides, their muffins are really good, and not too sweet! Love the comfortable and relaxing environment.

Coffee and date square. Good coffee. Nice atmosphere.

Service may be long, but the food is worth it. There is a lot of room if you want to spend some time there.

Stopped for a small breakfast here, they had a lot of good looking baked goods, I chose the pear and brie croissant which didnt disappoint. The coffee was good and the workers very friendly and helpful. I liked the chill and artistic atmosphere of the place too. Would stop by again.

Really nice baked food. Traditional recipes are followed. Price is not too high. Easily better than a lot of other bakeries in Greater Vancouver area. You really need to try it out if you are traveling in Duncan. Their sign outside of the building is not very obvious so you may need to spend a little bit effort to identify it. But the effort is worth it!

I love this café. A busy and vibrant vibe. A modern and informed approach to food/ies. This is one of the first places that I take new people to the Cowichan area so that they can get a feel for what our community can offer. Everyone works to remember who you are :) Today was extra special. Two of the cooks made me feel extra comfortable to ask for my eggs EXACTLY as I prefer - which I am always hesitant to do. Thanks for being so generous with your time and understanding xo

Today it was Jamaican patties and curried lentil soup...yummm! Always something good on the special board...

Very nice atmosphere! Also great coffee and nice food options.

Busy little spot with plenty of great options for food and drink!

I ordered a birthday cake made without milk or cream. the cake was beautiful in appearance and delicious! We brought it to a restaurant, shared a piece with a lovely man sitting alone who also loved the cake. Everything was done to perfection, including pickup time. Thanks!

Busy, popular spot. Great food and coffee. Nice book store. Wonderful use of a cool old building.

Very disappointed. Came in and got two comfort plates prior to Thanksgiving. The aftertaste in the meat was offensive, like sawdust. This was not a meal. It was a huge slab of ground beef alternative- which is where the unpleasant taste came from- with a pile of mashed sweet potatoes on top. The few pieces of vegetable were limo overcooked and tasteless. No gravy, no stuffing. One tiny container of cranberry sauce. To make this an actual meal I had to make two more vegetables and stuffing to try and disguise the unpleasant flavour of the loaf. I paid $50.00 for this when I could have made a better meal without the aftertaste. No wonder vegetarian food puts people off. I am back to dried lit turkey at Xmas. My dog s thanksgiving dinner was tastier than this.

Truly one of a kind. Visit on Saturday and take in the Duncan Farmers market. Fantastic!

Amazing spot with wonderful organically made food. I have been off of sugars and many other foods as part of a cleanse, so its often hard to find places I can actually eat from, but this place had options! I got a delicious vegan muffin that wasnt too sweet! As well as a loaf of their squirrely bread which was so fresh and feels great in the tummy (all their fresh bread looks great). Amazing place, great staff and vibes. Highly recommend

Great spot to grab food and explore

Great vegan place, quaint.

Love this place! Food is fantastic. Service is exceptional. Atmosphere is friendly and welcoming. Love it, love it!

Delicious and healthy.. win, win!

Soooo good, great atmosphere!

Great soup and sandwiches, lively atmosphere and busy spot.

good place