Overview

Nestled within Vancouver International Airport at 3211 Grant McConachie Way, Richmond, BC, illycaffe and Relay offers travelers a reliable and refreshing coffee experience. This coffee shop franchise skillfully combines quality espresso beverages with convenient grab-and-go options, creating a welcoming oasis in the often hectic airport environment.

The brand’s strengths lie in its well-crafted espresso drinks and a curated selection of fresh food items. Signature beverages such as decaf Americanos, double espressos over ice, and classic macchiatos consistently earn praise for their rich flavors and precise preparation. The coffee quality reflects illy’s renowned heritage, making it a favored stop for caffeine enthusiasts passing through the international D gate.

For travelers seeking more than just coffee, the menu includes an enticing range of light meals and pastries. From the savory Smoked Salmon Bagel and spinach-infused egg sandwiches to the sweet Almondine Croissant and Raspberry Danish, the offerings cater to various tastes. Noteworthy is the Apple Pecan Salad, which adds a fresh, crisp option to the lineup. These items balance speed and substance, serving as both quick bites and satisfying meals for those on tight schedules.

The space itself is functional yet inviting, boasting a dedicated area to relax and unwind away from airport crowds. Friendly and efficient staff contribute to a pleasant atmosphere, even during early morning or late-night hours, as highlighted by several patrons. This attention to hospitality enhances the overall experience, making illycaffe and Relay more than just a pit stop—it becomes a small refuge amidst travel fatigue.

Additionally, the combined convenience store aspect of Relay complements the coffee shop by providing travelers with an array of essentials and indulgences, from fresh pastries to beverages including select beers and wines. This integration supports its role as a one-stop destination for airport patrons looking to refresh before or after flights.

The target audience clearly includes busy travelers, airport employees, and early risers who value quality coffee and fresh food in a convenient setting. While prices reflect typical airport standards, the quality, variety, and attentive service make illycaffe and Relay a standout choice within the terminal.

In summary, illycaffe and Relay effectively blends signature coffee expertise with accessible, well-prepared snacks, all housed in a friendly and comfortable airport environment. Whether grabbing a quick espresso or pausing over a breakfast sandwich, this location meets the diverse needs of modern flyers with ease and style.


Amenities & Services

Popular for
Breakfast
Lunch
Solo dining
Offerings
Alcohol
Coffee
Quick bite
Wine
Atmosphere
Casual

What Customers Say

Donna
Feb 16,2026
5/5
Pleasant staff early in the morning, with hot snacks and food. This is a franchise.The convenience store is loaded with lots of goodies for your flight out.
SANJEEV JAIN
Feb 16,2026
5/5
This one is at gate D69. Enjoyed decaf Americano. I love olly coffee. Quality is awesome. They have beers and wines along with croissants and muffins also available.
Victoria Brott
Feb 16,2026
5/5
Excellent double espresso over ice in the Vancouver Airport International D gate way. Looks a bit cloudy because I asked for a drop of whipping cream.
Geoff Clarke
Feb 16,2026
5/5
A very, very good airport coffee shop, with a chill area next to it to relax. Espresso drinks are well made, and the staff are friendly, even for Canadians. A macchiato is less than $4, and my butter croissant was on sale for 50% off. The prices for other coffee drinks are about $1 higher than in my local coffee shop, which is amazing for airport pricing. I'm glad I stopped here.
Jennifer Thornton
Feb 16,2026
5/5
A refuge for caffeine in an otherwise shut down airport at 5am. The staff were really nice,helpful and friendly (at the end of a graveyard shift). Prices are steep but so is everything at the airport. They have a good selection and everything looked fresh.
Waheed Sabir
Feb 16,2026
5/5
A fantastic and kind individual at work—always polite and eager to assist. The food quality is exceptional, and their bakery items are truly top-notch. Definitely worth trying!
Bill MacDonald
Feb 16,2026
4/5
Grabbed a coffee at Illy Cafe and a few things at relay. Coffee was really good and price was fine. It's an airport Cafe so of course you pay a little more but it was a good mocha. Relay really gouges you but again it's an airport so what can you do.

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