Located in sun-drenched Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, there’s a coffee shop and bar that might make Canadians do a double-take.
Welcome to Tim Hector’s, a spot that bears an uncanny resemblance to Canada’s beloved Tim Hortons.
From the logo to the font and colours, you might think it’s just a Mexican iteration of the iconic Canadian chain, but Tim Hector’s actually has its own unique flair.
Founded by Canadian owners, Tim Hector’s brings a slice of Canada to the Mexican coast, serving up familiar favorites like coffee, smoothies, teas, and frappes.
But that is where the similarities in the menu end.
Embracing its vibrant locale, the drink menu expands to include items you won’t find back in Canada or even at a Tim Hortons in Mexico.
Think hot Mexican Chocolate, Espresso Tonic, and an array of alcoholic beverages like beer, espresso martinis, mojitos, and gin and tonic.
Can you imagine having a margarita in Timmy’s?
The food menu is equally different, featuring Mexican-style breakfast and brunch meals such as chilaquiles, skirt steak panini, rose panini, sweet crepes, and waffles.
While Tim Hector’s carves its niche in Puerto Vallarta, it’s interesting to note that Tim Hortons itself has a presence in Mexico.
In fact, they have 51 stores and plans to double that by 2025.
However, Tim Hortons outlets in Mexico largely mirror the Canadian menu, focusing on coffee, donuts, and sandwiches, without the localized flair of Tim Hector’s expansive offering.
Tim Hector’s stands out not just for its menu but also for its atmosphere.
The coffee shop boasts an outdoor patio area, is pet-friendly, and is situated less than 800 meters from the beach—perfect for those looking for a relaxing spot to enjoy their coffee with a sea breeze.
Adding to the ambiance, Tim Hector’s hosts a Taco party and live music every Friday, creating a festive environment that’s hard to see at any Timmy’s.
Despite the striking similarities in branding, Tim Hector’s makes it clear they are their own entity.
A playful reminder on their social media states: “And remember we’re Hector’s, not Hortons”.
Address: Francisco Medina Asencio, Plaza Playa de Oro Local #7, Playa de Oro, Zona Hotelera Nte., 48314 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico