Panenka

Panenka is a spacious café nestled in the heart of Abbotsford, combining a casual brunch spot with a surprisingly large local soccer gear store in the background. Its location on Gipps Street makes it a convenient stop for both locals grabbing a morning coffee and visitors looking to explore the nearby sports vibe.

The café balances indoor and outdoor seating well, offering booths and tables inside alongside a generous outdoor area, making it suitable for groups or solo visits. It’s particularly well suited for weekend brunches or a relaxed mid-morning catch-up where you can watch some soccer on screens while enjoying your coffee.

Expect a varied menu centered around breakfast and brunch staples with a twist. Highlights like tacos and the Southern Cheeseburger add a bit of character beyond the usual café fare, while items like the Chorizo Breakfast Burrito and stacks of pancakes cater to hearty appetites. The drinks menu is thoughtfully curated with unique options such as the Lavender Latte and the Iced Vanilla Matcha Latte, offering alternatives for those seeking something beyond standard coffee.

The atmosphere is a mix of industrial and retro, remnants of the building's past, combined with the sporty, footy-themed gear store that shares the space. This creates an eclectic, slightly quirky environment that works better if you come ready to embrace a casual, unpolished vibe rather than expecting a sleek café experience.

Service is friendly and generally efficient, though menu availability can vary, so it’s worth calling ahead if you’re set on particular dishes. While the café handles good volumes comfortably, small details like glassware and cleanliness of shared facilities have room for improvement, as noted by some patrons.

This is the kind of place locals might drop into for a decent coffee and a solid brunch amid a lively, slightly rough-around-the-edges setting, especially if you’re a soccer fan or in the area for sporting gear. Panenka works as a café where you don’t have to be in a hurry and can enjoy your breakfast while soaking up a unique slice of Abbotsford’s community life.