A new cafe dedicated to cyclists is opening up at 1262 Burrard (back lane entrance) on March 1st. Sounds pretty awesome; a concept that is long overdue. Raw construction shots and details below…

Grand opening: Caffe La Musette is a new bike-friendly coffee bar where commuters and weekend warriors can stop in for an espresso, a gluten-free energy bar and some friendly bike banter. Opening March 1st at Drake and Hornby in downtown Vancouver, Caffe La Musette is the first of it’s kind in Vancouver. Serving 49th Parallel espresso from a custom painted celeste La Marzocco, freshly made crepes and a variety of treats.

About the name: Musette is the term used in professional cycling for a “feed zone bag”, in which the riders receive their rations for the next few hours of racing. A musette is the cyclists’ lunch bag and is prepared fresh by the team soigneur each day. The contents of the musette is a pleasant surprise to the riders – it might be Nutella on a croissant or maybe a fruit tart – which helps to keep morale high in the long and arduous rides of this challenging profession.

About the philosophy: Whether you are a daily bike commuter, an aspiring pro cyclist, or you work across the street, you can be sure to find a welcoming atmosphere. Just like a racer’s musette, the contents of Caffe La Musette might be a little different every day, but we will always aim to brighten your day.

About the space: The location is a back lane entrance, a half-block from the Hornby bike route at Drake Street. Owner Thomas Eleizegui, a veteran in the fashion industry, has used his keen eye to design an industrial mix of antique furniture and vintage cycling memorabilia. Colourful jerseys and photographs surround the reclaimed barn doors. One of Thomas’ prized finds: an original set of Tolix chairs, the seat that started the industrial furniture movement.

A special spin: Caffe La Musette is located right long the Hornby bike route, and aims to be convenient for the cyclist. There is space inside for up to 6 bikes, and a security camera above the outdoor rack. During the cycling season, cycling fans will come in for live race coverage, or to check out the collection of vintage jerseys that decorate the walls.

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