Oldhand Coffee: Craft, Community, and Culture in Downtown Abbotsford

By Jenny Holly Hansen | WBN News | May 27, 2025

In the heart of historic Downtown Abbotsford, where heritage buildings meet creative entrepreneurs, Oldhand Coffee has carved out a reputation that’s as much about community as it is about coffee. A gathering place for locals, artists, students, and small business owners, Oldhand blends modern café culture with old-world charm—and does it with remarkable consistency.

Whether you’re popping in for a strong cappuccino on the way to work or settling in for an afternoon of reading or writing, Oldhand offers more than a caffeine fix—it offers a sense of place.

A Commitment to Quality and Simplicity

Founded by married duo Kristina and Johannes van Bommel van Vloten, Oldhand was born from a desire to create a café where hospitality mattered as much as the coffee. That intentionality shows in every detail—from the curated pastries to the handwritten menus and rotating seasonal offerings.

Coffee at Oldhand is never over-complicated, yet it’s never careless either. Beans are sourced from some of the most respected roasters in the Pacific Northwest, and the baristas are trained with precision. Whether you order an espresso, cortado, or their famously smooth batch brew, you can count on balance, depth, and that satisfying richness that marks a well-pulled shot.

Elevated Pastries and Light Fare

While coffee may be the star, the food at Oldhand holds its own. Their in-house baking program delivers fresh pastries daily—think golden croissants, rustic scones, and cardamom buns that have become a cult favourite.

For those looking for a more filling bite, Oldhand offers a small but thoughtful menu of sandwiches, toast, and seasonal salads. The ingredients are fresh, locally sourced where possible, and always beautifully presented.

A Space Designed to Slow You Down

One of Oldhand’s most distinctive features is its interior: high ceilings, soft lighting, vintage furniture, and minimalist décor that invites you to linger. It feels more like a creative studio than a typical coffee shop. You’ll find friends catching up over lattes, freelancers working on laptops, and artists sketching in notebooks.

The music is always good. The vibe is always calm. And the intention behind it all is clear: this is a place that’s meant to serve the neighbourhood—not just with coffee, but with culture and care.

Rooted in Downtown Abbotsford’s Revival

Oldhand has played a meaningful role in the revitalization of Downtown Abbotsford. As the area continues to grow with boutique retailers, creative studios, and community events, Oldhand remains a central hub—anchoring the neighbourhood with its strong sense of identity.

It’s not just a coffee shop; it’s a reflection of what makes Abbotsford special: creativity, resilience, and an appreciation for the slower, more thoughtful moments in life.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a café that values craftsmanship, connection, and community, Oldhand Coffee is a must-visit. It’s the kind of place where stories unfold over mugs of perfectly brewed coffee and where every detail—right down to the plate your croissant is served on—has been chosen with care.

In a world that’s constantly speeding up, Oldhand invites you to slow down. And in doing so, it offers something that’s becoming increasingly rare: a moment of meaning in the middle of your day.

Let’s Keep Talking:

Jenny is a business insurance broker with Waypoint Insurance. With 19 years experience, she will well versed in the technical aspects of business coverages.

She can be reached at 604-317-6755 or jholly-hansen@wbnn.news. Connect with Jenny on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-holly-hansen-365b691b/.  Connect with Jenny at BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/jennyhollyhansen.bsky.social

Let’s Meet Up:

Jenny Holly Hansen is a cohost with Chris Sturges of the Langley Impact Networking Group. You are welcome to join us on Thursday’s from 4pm to 6pm at: Sidebar Bar and Grill: 100b - 20018 83A Avenue, Langley, BC V2Y 3R4

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