Fort St. John coffee shop wins 2026 Canadian Choice Award

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — A Fort St. John-based coffee shop has received national recognition.

Bean UpNorth Coffee House announced in a Facebook post on January 20th it has been named a 2026 Canadian Choice Award winner in the cafes category.

The win follows the shop’s nomination in November, when co-owners Emil and Rose Bautista shared their surprise and gratitude at being shortlisted alongside other Canadian cafes. 

At the time, the couple described the recognition to Energeticcity.ca as deeply personal for their small, community-built business.

In its post, Bean UpNorth thanked its customers and supporters, crediting the win to the people behind the counter and across the community.

“So grateful, so humble, so full of love,” the post read. “This win is made of early mornings, shared smiles, kind words and the best community we could ever ask for.

“Thank you for making Bean UpNorth more than just a coffee shop. This is for our community. This award belongs to all of you.”

The Canadian Choice Award highlights small and medium-sized businesses across the country, recognizing those that contribute to their local communities and the nation at large.

According to the award’s website, businesses first receive community nominations before a panel selects the top three finalists in each category and city.

Winners are then chosen based on “questionnaire responses, verified customer reviews, nominator feedback, notable achievements and demonstrated contributions to the local community.”

Details on an awards gala to celebrate 2026’s winners are expected to be announced at a later date.