Poolhouse Cafe & Roastery- Formerly Madhatter Coffee Roastery

Imagine a place where the aroma of freshly roasted beans blends with modern minimalist aesthetics — this is exactly how Poolhouse Cafe & Roastery welcomes its guests. It is not just a coffee shop, but a true cultural hub in the city of Medicine Hat, where the art of coffee making is elevated to its peak.

Located in the historic part of the city, this roastery is one of the trendiest spots in Canada for specialty coffee lovers. The interior combines industrial elements with homey comfort, creating an ideal space for both a morning pick-me-up and leisurely evening meetings.

The main feature of the establishment is its in-house roasting. Visitors can not only try drinks made from high-quality beans but also witness the process of transforming green coffee into the aromatic product supplied to many other establishments in the region.

For those planning a visit, below is the essential contact information for this establishment.

The main reason to visit Poolhouse Cafe & Roastery is to taste rare coffee varieties. Be sure to try their signature pour-over or a classic espresso to appreciate the clean flavor of the local roast. The baristas are always ready to explain the nuances of a specific lot, whether the beans are from Ethiopia or Colombia.

In addition to the drinks, it is worth trying the fresh pastries and light snacks that perfectly complement the coffee menu. Many guests prefer to take a seat by the window to watch the slow rhythm of the streets or sit closer to the roasting area to feel like part of the production process.

If you are traveling and looking for an authentic souvenir, check out the retail section: here you can purchase a bag of freshly roasted beans in stylish packaging or professional accessories for brewing coffee at home.

Poolhouse Cafe & Roastery is conveniently located in the heart of the city at 550 3rd St SE. If you are in the downtown area, the cafe is an easy walk away, allowing you to enjoy the architecture of the historic districts along the way.

For those who prefer public transport, the city's main bus routes pass nearby. You can also always use a local taxi service; a trip from most central hotels will take no more than 5-10 minutes.

The city of Medicine Hat has a rich industrial history, and the emergence of modern spaces like Poolhouse Cafe & Roastery marks a new chapter in the city's cultural development. The cafe is located in an area that has been actively transforming into a creative and gastronomic hub in recent years.

The name "Poolhouse" evokes an aesthetic of lightness and relaxation, creating a contrast with the harsh climate of the northern latitudes. The project's creators sought to combine a professional roasting facility and a cozy living room for locals under one roof, making this spot an important landmark for the local community.

Interestingly, the focus here is not only on the final product but also on education: baristas often share knowledge about the origins of different coffee varieties, turning a simple coffee run into a small exploration of global coffee geography.

For a quick visit for a coffee to go, 15 minutes will suffice, but to truly soak in the atmosphere of Poolhouse Cafe & Roastery, it is worth setting aside about 45–60 minutes. This is enough time to slowly enjoy your drink and watch the city life through the large windows.

If you are interested in the roasting process or plan to work on your laptop in a quiet setting, your visit might extend to 1.5–2 hours. This place is perfect for long conversations and thoughtful relaxation.

Since the schedule of Poolhouse Cafe & Roastery may change depending on the season or private events, we recommend checking the current opening hours on the official website or the establishment's social media pages before your visit.

As a rule, the coffee shop opens early in the morning to delight locals with their first cup of coffee and closes by the evening.

Exploring the surroundings after a cup of aromatic coffee can significantly enrich your travel experience. The central part of the city is filled with historic sites and interesting details that reveal the character of the region.

Many attractions are within walking distance, making it easy to put together an excellent walking route for a couple of hours.