Bridgehead Roastery and Coffeehouse

Bridgehead Roastery & Coffeehouse: Ottawa’s Fairtrade Beacon

Bridgehead Roastery & Coffeehouse isn’t just a café—it’s an Ottawa institution shaped by over 40 years of unwavering commitment to ethical sourcing, sustainability, and community. Founded by activists and United Church ministers in 1981, Bridgehead made history as the first business in Canada to offer fairly traded coffee long before it became a specialty trend. Today, the roastery at 130 Anderson Street is the heart of a beloved local chain, renowned for its organic, Fairtrade-certified coffees. Each cup is roasted on site, showcasing a spectrum of origins and profiles, from smooth, caramel-noted blends to bolder, chocolate-laced single origins. The focus on Fairtrade and organic credentials is verified annually by EcoCert Canada, setting the bar for sustainable coffee in the city.

The café’s vibe is welcoming and distinctly local, with friendly baristas who hand-craft every beverage and a menu that makes Bridgehead a destination for more than just coffee. Breakfast, lunch, and an array of baked goods—freshly made in-house—complement the coffee offerings. House specialties range from breakfast burritos and artisanal breads to inventive pastries, all made with quality and care. Bridgehead’s Rotating Single Origin subscription lets curious drinkers explore rare lots, while local fame includes multiple “Best Coffee/Tea House” awards and a reputation for consistently exceptional quality. Whether you’re a daily regular or a first-time visitor, Bridgehead delivers an authentic, community-rooted specialty coffee experience that’s as ethical as it is delicious.