Halifax, N.S. — Halifax Public Libraries welcomes East Cup Café and Roastery as our new café provider for our Halifax Central Library and Keshen Goodman Public Library branches. Café locations in these branches plan to open in early 2026.
East Cup Café and Roastery operates a flagship café on Robie Street, a neighbourhood favourite serving high-quality coffee and treats. The café was founded by two brothers, Hamzeh and Ahmad Haj Issa, who immigrated to Nova Scotia in the 90s. With their thoughtful approach to café design, locally sourced menu, and diverse team, East Cup Café offers a welcoming and inclusive space to relax, work, study, and connect with community.
“East Cup Café demonstrated a strong commitment to shared values,” said Megan Gainer, Director of Facilities with Halifax Public Libraries. “Café services greatly improve public spaces because they increase comfort, encourage lingering, and people are more willing to connect over a hot beverage or snack. East Cup Café have created this environment in their Robie Street café, and we look forward to helping them expand into new communities.”
“We’re incredibly honoured to partner with Halifax Public Libraries and to be welcomed into such meaningful community spaces,” said Hamzeh Haj Issa, President of East Cup Café and Roastery. “As immigrants to Nova Scotia, libraries played an important role in helping us feel connected and at home. Our goal is to create cafés that feel just as welcoming—places where people can gather, feel comfortable, and enjoy great coffee together.”
East Cup Café’s menu will include a selection of specialty coffees, teas, pastries, and light meals, as well as gluten-free, vegetarian, and Halal options.
For further updates on opening dates and when you can begin enjoying your new café space, please check back here, or follow along on our social channels: Facebook, opens a new window and Instagram, opens a new window.