Eats PEI: Samuel’s Coffee House

January 1, 2017

The History
“I didn’t set out to open a food business,” said Moyna Matheson, owner of Samuel’s Coffee House. “I had years of experience in food and hospitality, but what I really wanted to do was create a space in downtown Summerside where people could gather. I wanted to help revitalize the area. It was a risk, but two locations and lots of community support later, I would say it paid off.”

The Space

Located in the historic Journal Building with its trademark round corner overlooking downtown Summerside, the building is one of only two masonry structures that remains from the 19th century on Water Street. There’s no denying Samuel’s provides a cool vibe for studying, working, brainstorming, or just reading a book. The unique corner with its three-directional view has quickly become the most coveted seat in the house, providing an unparalleled view of the city.

A historic vault has been renovated and is frequently used for quiet conversations and private meetings.

The staff truly enjoy looking out into the dining area and seeing people meeting, creating, and laughing. “It makes us feel like we’re part of something bigger, providing an environment for collaboration and creativity,” said Matheson.

The Food
Their locally sourced coffee and loose-leaf teas are top-shelf, but Samuel’s is much more than a coffee house. Everything on the menu is made on site, from scratch, from the highest-quality ingredients—from the coffee syrups and soups to the bread and muffins. Moyna taste tests everything that goes on the menu and vows to never sell anything to a customer that she wouldn’t serve her own family.

The Future
Two new additions at Samuel’s this month include a line of teas called Sip T and a soap from White Gables Potato Soap company made with Samuel’s recycled coffee grounds. “I always thought there must be a way to recycle all of our coffee grounds. Who would have thought a coffee shop and a soap company could find common ground?” said Matheson.

Samuel’s is clearly thriving with a balance of history and innovation, much like its home city of Summerside.

Location: 4 Queen Street, Summerside
Cuisines: Baked Goods, Sandwiches, Coffee Shop, Gluten Free
New on the Menu: Sip T, Samuel’s very own line of custom tea!
Hours: Mon to Wed: 7:30am – 5:00pm | Thu & Fri: 7:30am – 7:00pm | Sat & Sun: 8:00am – 5:00pm