Having a Cuppa (2): Out and About
While having a cuppa at home is a mighty popular past-time in Ireland, having one while out and about also proves exceedingly agreeable to many folk. And there are certainly many, many options in terms of places to go and have said cuppa. Equally, there is no shortage of options in Canada. Both countries have the big worldwide giants like Starbucks, though interestingly enough the first Starbucks only came to Ireland a few years ago, while Starbucks have been in around in Canada for many years.
But what about the coffee and tea retailers founded and headquartered on native territory? Here are a few examples below:
 Bewley's of Grafton Street, originally opened in 1927, is now owned by an Irish entrepreneur, Patrick Campbell and his family. It's the last of the Bewley's Cafes in Ireland, and a treasured Dublin landmark. The demise of the Bewley's cafes was a significant event for many Irish people, and to this day one of the blog authors, Sophie Bury, experiences a pang of nostalgia literally every time she hears the place mentioned! This Tea Emporium was a hangout for old and young over many years, where cherry buns, almond rings, and hearty Irish teas (sausages, beans, chips etc.) were served up in cosy surroundings. |
 Tim Hortons is something of a national symbol or cultural fixture in Canadian Life. It was founded by Canadian hockey player Tim Horton in the 1960s, and is famous for the coffee and doughnuts it serves, and seriously beloved by many Canucks. Lineups (both drive-through and in-person) and quite a common sight at Tim Hortons. And the sheer number (close to 3,000 across Canada in 2009) is a testament to their popularity. |
 Butlers Chocolates, luxury Irish chocolates, are something for which Ireland is deservedly well regarded. It was founded back in the 1930s. In 1998 the same folks who make these chocolates started establishing cafes throughout Ireland. Teas, speciality coffees and other hot beverages can be enjoyed here. The chocolate one receives with every hot beverage purchase is a well-received gesture. |
 Second Cup, founded in Canada in 1975, is Canada's largest speciality coffee shop chain. It is headquartered in Mississauga, Ontario, and has 360 retail stores across Canada. |