čukʷaa haʔuk cafe
with Chef Lisa Ahier
Our little cafe is sprouting back to life under the culinary direction of Chef Lisa Ahier of SoBo as the čukʷaa haʔuk (CHOO-kwa ha-OOK) cafe, meaning “come, let’s feast!”
Opening Date
We reopened this beloved community gem on Saturday, February 7, 2026 from 10am to 4pm.
Regular Hours
The cafe will be open Thursday through Sunday, from 10 am to 4 pm. As spring unfolds, we may adjust our hours.
Menu
Expect a small-but-mighty menu that changes daily—think hot lattes, hearty soups, and a few tasty surprises as we slowly unfurl our wings for the season.
Culture
In the Nuu-chah-nulth language, the words for feasting (haʔuk) and teaching (ḥaaḥuupa) are related. Often, in Nuu-chah-nulth culture, teachings are shared during a meal. With a focus at the Clayoquot Campus on education and Indigenous-led conservation, the new name of the cafe carries with it an invitation to feast on food and knowledge.
Leave your laptops at home and come connect!
Gardens Access
In February and March, patrons of the cafe will have access to the open courtyards of the gardens free of charge. Trails and mudflats access remain closed to the public until later this year.
In April, access to the cafe will require a garden membership or day pass. We will share more in the coming weeks.
Parking
With the new carving facility and lodge parking lot reserved for lodge guests, parking on site is limited. Consider walking, biking, and car-sharing alternatives. Parking fees may apply in future.