Downtown Kingston Chronicles: Where Students are Vibing!
By Rosalyn Gambhir
Hey there, students!
First things first, welcome to Kingston because you’re in for a treat. Today we’re sharing all the coolest spots to hit up for a good time in downtown Kingston, whether you're looking for a chill brunch, a night out with friends, a cozy study session, retail therapy, or a fancy dinner to celebrate a special occasion. Downtown Kingston's got it all, so let's dive into the must-visit places!
Weekend Brunch Vibes
Let's start with the most important meal of the day...brunch! The weekend is the perfect time to treat yourself, whether you're craving fluffy pancakes, perfectly poached eggs, or a classic bacon and avocado toast, these spots have got you covered:
Tommy's: Kickstart your day with their brunch menu. Trust us; it's worth the wake-up call or mid-day feels.
Morrison's Restaurant: If you're all about cozy vibes and classic brunch options, this is your spot. Hey Darlin' Diner: Dive into comfort food classics with a side of good company.
Northside Espresso + Kitchen: A cute spot inspired by the thriving café culture of Melbourne, Australia serving up brunch with a twist.
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Tommy's
Northside Espresso
Morrison's Restaurant
Cozy Study Spots
When you need to hit the books, but also need a tasty treat and a much-needed latte, check out these study-friendly spots:
These cafes are perfect for a productive study session:
CRAVE Coffee House & Bakery: Fuel your study sessions with scrumptious pastries (the cinnamon buns are a must) and top-notch caffeinated bevies.
Coffee & Company: Cozy up with your books and enjoy a variety of brews and snacks.
Balzac's Kingston: Known for its lattes, it's the perfect place to caffeinate and concentrate.
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CRAVE Coffee House
Balzac's Kingston
Coffee & Company
A Fun Night Out
When the sun goes down, downtown Kingston comes to life. Whether you're into craft brews, live music, or just having a blast with friends, these spots have got you covered:
Something in the Water Brewing Co.: Grab a local pint and soak up the lively atmosphere.
Musiikki Café & Whiskey Bar: Live music and chill vibes make it the ultimate hangout spot.
The Brass Pub: An oldie but a goodie! Classic vibes with a great selection of drinks.
The Ale House & Canteen: Dance the night away and enjoy live entertainment.
Union Kitchen + Cocktails: Your one and only spot for hand-crafted cocktails, good times and good vibes!
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Something in the Water
Musikki Café
The Brass Pub
The Ale House
Union Kitchen + Cocktails
Fancy Dinners & Celebrations
Whether it's a special occasion, passing that important final, defending your thesis or just wanting to treat yourself, downtown Kingston's dining scene has got you covered:
Tango Nuevo: Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavours collide for a unique tapas dining experience.
Bar Mayla: A relaxed lounge bar serving up delicious tapas.
Olivea: Italian dishes that guarantee a memorable meal.
HEIST Restaurant + Wine Club: Modern takes on classic dishes and craft cocktails await.
Miss Bāo Restaurant + Cocktail Bar: Unique cocktails and Asian-inspired dishes are a must-try.
Woodenheads Gourmet Pizza: Pizza lovers, rejoice! Savour unique wood-fired pizzas here.
Baja Craft Kitchen: Fresh flavours and coastal vibes! Serving up tacos, tostadas to shareables, this spot had laid-back vibes with elevated dishes.
Atomica: Find something for everyone, from pizza to pasta, as well as great vegan options on their diverse menu.
Namaste Indian Fine Dining: Dive into the rich and aromatic flavours of Indian cuisine.
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Tango Nuevo
Bar Mayla
Olivea
HEIST Restaurant
Miss Bāo
Woodenheads
Baja Craft Kitchen
Atomica
Namaste Indian Fine Dining
Late-Night Grub
After a night out, cravings hit hard. Downtown Kingston's got your back with these late-night favourites:
Bubba's: The ultimate go-to for satisfying those late-night poutine cravings.
Tommy's: Perfect for satisfying those late-night munchies when in the Hub.
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Bubba's
Tommy's
Retail Therapy
Let's face it, students need some retail therapy now and then, and downtown Kingston has some cool shops to scratch that shopping itch. Whether you're looking for fashion-forward items or unique finds, these spots will have you swiping that student card:
Agent 99: If you're all about trendy and eclectic fashion, Agent 99 is your go-to. From cool accessories to stylish apparel, this boutique is a treasure trove for fashion-forward students. Also your go-to for formal dresses or any special occasion!
WHIT Kingston: For those who appreciate curated collections and a touch of sophistication, WHIT Kingston is the place to be. Explore their carefully selected fashion and cute gift items for a chic student vibe.
Urban Outfitters: Need we say more? Urban Outfitters is a student haven. From clothing and accessories to home goods and vinyl records, it's your one-stop-shop for everything hip and happening.
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Agent 99
WHIT Kingston
Urban Outfitters
Now that you've got the inside scoop on Kingston's downtown scene, grab your friends, and let the good times roll. Whether you're brunching, having fun, studying, or celebrating, downtown Kingston has everything you need to make unforgettable memories.
Enjoy the journey, fellow students!
Rosalyn Gambhir
I’m a daydreamer, a foodie, an adventurer, and an explorer. But most of all, a tourist in my own backyard of the limestone city rediscovering old favourites and hidden gems. As a proud Kingstonian for over a decade and an alumna of Queen's University, I has thrived in this vibrant community, which has fueled her creativity and passion for building a strong online community and supporting local businesses through my blogging, social media and freelance writing.