About Us
A unique coffee house
Covernotes Coffee House is a family-owned café with a passion for coffee, tea, and community located in the heart of downtown Richmond Hill. What started as a dream to create a welcoming gathering place has grown into one of Richmond Hill’s most beloved cafés. Since 2018, we’ve been proud to serve Certified Fair-Trade coffee, over 100 organic loose-leaf teas, and freshly baked goods made with seasonal ingredients.
Tucked into every corner are shelves of gently used books, inviting guests to slow down and get lost in a story. Covernotes is a space where stories are shared, friendships are built, and the community comes together — whether it’s during live music on the patio, a cozy afternoon over tea, or one of our special pop-up events. Every visit is meant to feel warm, memorable, and uniquely yours.
Our café is housed in the Old Richmond Hill High School, a landmark built in 1897. This historic red-brick building has stood at the heart of downtown for well over a century, witnessing the growth and change of our community. Its character — tall windows, solid architecture, and echoes of classrooms past — gives Covernotes a sense of timelessness and charm that you can feel the moment you step inside.
By choosing this space, we hoped to preserve a piece of Richmond Hill’s heritage while giving it new life as a community hub. Today, Covernotes blends the old with the new: history in the walls, modern flavours in every cup, and countless new stories being written each day by the people who gather here.
We are honoured to have received the Appreciation Plaque in recognition of our invaluable contributions to the economic development and community building of Richmond Hill City, presented by Councillor Simon Cui in 2024.
In addition, we are proud to be recognized as one of the Top Three Best Rated businesses in Richmond Hill for 6 consecutive years:
See what people have to say:
Well maintained historical high school building has been converted Into coffee house. There's a beautiful statue of dancers at front. It's the fusion of classical and modern. In hot summer, sitting on the patio and having a cup of coffee, how comfortable it is.
Mei Jin
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This coffee shop will gonna be one of my best places to go. So good sandwiches and hot chocolate. Lets go through this situation, I’d love to see their live bands. Oh their hummus pesto chicken sandwich is admirable!!
WangOh Jeung
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Went on a Sunday afternoon and ordered a latte and cookie. Staff were super friendly and my drink came with a small biscuit which was a very pleasant surprise. Both drink and cookie were great and patio was nice and spacious.
Christopher C
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A beautiful coffee shop in an amazing building. There are not many visible signs but it is located near Richmond hill center for performing arts.
I had a piece of banana loaf which was delicious and there are art works on the walls that make the place beautiful and you can buy them if you like. Also there are books to read if you like to spend some quiet time reading.
Christopher C
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Covernotes is my sanctuary. I come here to study, to relax, or to meet people and socialize.
They have a variety of options for drinks, and different types of tea.
Cakes and desserts are fresh and some toasts and sandwiches are served as well.
I recommend Covernotes to anyone who's looking for a place to go regularly.
Parmida Mdz
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One of the best coffee shops in the area. You feel like you’re in downtown Toronto.
Great for group gatherings and you can hang out here without any pressure to rush and leave.
The large collection of books from floor to ceiling makes it cozy and feels like home. Great variety of teas, vegan treats and sandwiches/wraps.
Melissa Fuchs
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Authentic coffee shop with pleasant staff and some mellow music.
Variety of cakes and non-dairy options. Great way to start the day!
Hydi Ng
Our Awards:
Monday: 9am —5pm
Tuesday: 9am — 7pm
Wednesday: 9am — 7pm
Thursday: 9am — 7pm
Friday: 9am — 7pm
Saturday: 9am — 7pm
Sunday: 9am — 5pm
Closed on all statutory holidays.
Visit us in the heart of the beautiful city of Richmond Hill at:
10268 Yonge Street,
Richmond Hill, Ontario, CA
L4C 3B7
FREE PARKING located behind the building — shared with the Richmond Hill Centre for the Performing Arts