The capital city’s most interesting neighborhood has no shortage of stellar spots to stop and savour a cup of coffee. The brand new Sundog Trading Post is one place that has seriously great views of Back Bay from its patio. Here, you quickly realize you’re situated near a central Subarctic thoroughfare, as floatplanes, sailboats and ships zip by in all directions, and houseboaters zig-zag in between, on their daily paddle commute to the mainland. The people-watching truly is top-notch.
Sundog Trading Post also offers paninis, salads, sandwiches and homemade ice cream to satisfy your need for a hearty lunch or sweet treat after a full day walking around Old Town or out on the water. No matter what kind of treat you’re looking for, Sundog Trading Post is certainly a welcome addition to your tour of Old Town.
While you’re in the area, if you’re interested in a brew of a different kind and some truly amazing food, head to The Garden by fishy people for lake-to-plate dishes and Northern-inspired cuisine. You can walk across the causeway from The Trading Post, but in the summer, you may find yourself inclined to use their dock to pull up for a post-paddle beer and fish taco. Niki, the owner of The Garden, says ‘At Fishy People we focus on Northern food experiences. Sourcing from local fishers, foragers, gatherers, and growers, we create unique and flavourful products. From our line of fish products to catering, and Pop Up events and cold local beer, the Garden is here to showcase what Yellowknife and the North has to offer.
If you’d rather stick to land, Bullocks Bistro—renowned as one of the best fish and chips joints in all of Canada—is also a popular local gathering point for a late-morning or afternoon coffee. This is a great opportunity to take in the rustic ambiance of this famed eatery while the lines aren’t long and to find out what’s happening around town from some of the regulars.