If you’ve ever dreamed of sipping coffee inside a vintage garage filled with Porsches, this is your kind of spot.
Located at the French Creek Marina just north of Parksville, Café 356 is a hidden gem on Vancouver Island where classic cars, strong coffee, and community vibes all meet under one roof.
We asked owners Marc P. Klijnsmit and Santanna Portman 17 questions to learn more about what makes this place so unique—and the story behind it is just as cool as the cars inside.
Café 356 was born out of Marc’s love for the Porsche brand and the culture around it. His first ride in a 944 Turbo sparked a passion that eventually evolved into this one-of-a-kind café.
Named after the Porsche 356—one of the most stylish models ever built, according to Marc—the space is more than just a coffee shop. It’s a celebration of car culture and good vibes.
From the outside, you might not expect to see what’s waiting behind the garage doors, a raw, industrial-style café with brick walls, vintage décor, and actual Porsches parked inside. The space was almost made for it.
“It looks like an old garage,” Marc told Vancouver Island Buzz.
“Perfect for our concept.”
View this post on Instagram
Inside, you’ll find locals and visitors enjoying everything from expertly pulled espresso shots to a breakfast sandwich that gets daily compliments. The café proudly serves coffee roasted by Root86, another fellow car enthusiast who sources organic beans and crafts a bold dark roast that’s become a staple at 356.
But it’s not just about the coffee. Families stop in for “kids car pancakes,” and every Sunday brings a breakfast buffet that regulars rave about.
And speaking of Sundays, that’s also when the café transforms into a hub for Cars & Coffee—a weekly meetup for car lovers that attracts enthusiasts from across Vancouver Island and even the mainland.
Still, Café 356 isn’t just for gearheads. It’s a community hangout, a pit stop for couples on weekend drives, and a go-to for locals who want a laid-back place to grab a great coffee and soak in the atmosphere.
“Everyone is welcome and feels at home,” Marc says.
The café even opens its doors after hours for events, from art classes to fundraisers for the local hospice society. It’s even hosted a movie premiere.
And if you’re wondering where the party’s at after brunch?
Marc and Santanna also own the French Creek Pub just around the corner—home to the famous birthday bass hat and some of the best fish and chips on the coast.
You’ll find Café 356 at the French Creek Marina, open 7 days a week from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Whether you’re a car buff or just someone in search of your new favourite breakfast spot, this place is worth the drive.
And if you’re in Victoria, keep your eyes peeled, Marc and Santanna hint that a second location might not be too far off.
Want to be featured in our “17 Things to Know” series?
If you’re a Vancouver Island-based business and want to be included in this series, email us today to get started!
