Five Drinks to Cozy up to this Fall in YQG
As summer gives way to sweater weather, the leaves aren’t the only things changing.
Across Windsor-Essex, local cafes are refreshing their seasonal offerings; trading in their iced matchas and lemonade concoctions for warm spices and festive favourites. ‘Tis the season for pumpkin spice and everything nice.
And while we love a good pumpkin spice latte, it’s not the only drink having a moment right now. Looking to sample a few new favourites this fall? Here are five unique sips that are sure to give you all the cozy vibes:
Thiessen Orchards – Apple Cider Slushie Supreme
Not ready to give up your cold drinks quite yet? Soak up the last warm days of the season and cool off with something sweet from one of our region’s most beloved fall destinations.
Heading to Thiessen Orchards in Leamington for an afternoon of apple picking and family fun on the farm? Be sure to pop into their Snack Shack for their newest creation: the Apple Cider Slushie Supreme. For those who swear apple is the superior fall flavour (sorry PSL lovers), this refreshing bevvy is sure to hit the spot. Think apple cider but make it a slushie and top it with fresh whipped cream and a mini donut. Yes, it’s as magical as it sounds.
Sweet Beans Café – Pumpkin Salted Caramel Matcha Latte
The caffeinated little sister of Frost Ice Cream, Sweet Beans Café is relatively new to the scene, but with their house made syrups, strong brews and creative combinations, they’re quickly becoming a favourite among coffee connoisseurs across the city.
Their recently launched fall menu is full of classic cool weather flavours, remixed and reimagined to create unique new brews: from the more traditional cinnamon roll latte to the distinctive Honeycrisp apple shaken espresso. They also now offer a full line of ceremonial grade uji matcha drinks, including the standout pumpkin salted caramel matcha latte.
The best part? There are now two locations for those looking to get their fix: the original storefront on Ottawa Street near Parent Avenue, and their newest spot in South Windsor in the plaza at Dougall and Cabana.
Café March 21 – Sweet Potato Fog
A staple in downtown Windsor for over a decade, Café March 21 is known for their Asian-inspired menu and rich, well-crafted pour-over coffee.
Want to discover a taste of Korean café culture with a delicious autumn twist? Their signature Sweet Potato Fog is unlike anything else this city has to offer and has become a seasonal favourite over the past several years.
A creamy, gently sweet tea latte with earthy sweet potato flavour, vanilla and a citrusy bergamot note, this standout drink is topped with cinnamon and best enjoyed cozied up in the Pelissier Street café’s warm, welcoming seating area, surrounded by Smiski (if you know, you know.)
Cafécito – Pumpkin Tres Leche Latte
Pumpkin season with a Latin twist? Say less.
Recently opened in Windsor’s Via Italia neighbourhood, Cafécito is a warm and welcoming Venezuelan café featuring locally roasted coffee, hot and cold drink options, as well as an assortment of freshly baked pastries.
You can see the heart owner Andres puts into everything he does, and their fall drink feature is no exception.
The Pumpkin Tres Leche Latte was created as an homage to his Latin American roots and is the perfect blend of classic autumn flavours and the traditional South American milk cake: a double shot of espresso, house made pumpkin spice syrup topped with tres leche cold foam and spiced cookie crumble. A sweet way to celebrate the season.
Anchor Coffee House – Spiced Date Latte
Those quintessential pumpkin and apple flavours tend to dominate the season, but Anchor Coffee House in Walkerville has another autumn favourite worth a sip.
Their Spiced Date Latte brings together Medjool dates, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg and a hint of salt for a sweet, warmly spiced blend with caramel-like notes. It’s a cozy companion for a crisp fall stroll through the neighbourhood.
Of course, they’re also home to all things pumpkin spice, so be sure to grab a scone or other sweet treat while you’re in.
