Edmonton got a new coffee shop this summer, in my old stomping grounds too! I’d known about it for awhile, but last week I finally got to visit Barking Buffalo Cafe on 124 Street.
The cafe lives inside the clothing store Salgado Fenwick, an Edmonton-based company that designs and makes its own products. These guys are an inspiration to artists, crafters, and makers everywhere: after years of hard work they’ve gone from selling at local craft shows to having their own storefront, complete with trendy coffee shop. I used to sell handmade goods many years ago, and at every craft show I’d wander to the Salgado booth and marvel at their gorgeous silkscreened shirts. It makes me proud to see these designers go so far!
Anyway, coffee. Take a trip east of downtown to 124 Street, which is already a fun area to explore, and head up to 108 Ave. Order your ethically-sourced coffee by Pilot Roasters, then wander the shop. Between the artistic designs and lovely space, the shop is a visual feast. Salgado wares feature vibrant illustrations of animals and nature, and some products pay homage to Edmonton wildlife and vistas. I yanked one of their interior photos because it did the space better justice. However, here’s me goofing with the mannequins and generally being a tourist:
Learn more about Barking Buffalo Cafe at their website. Or better yet, stop by and support your local entrepreneurs!