Creator of Canada's Top Coffee Shop Unveils New Venture in Vancouver
Jess Reno, the visionary behind Nemesis Coffee, which recently earned accolades as Canada's best coffee shop and ranked 15th globally on the World's 100 Best Coffee list, has launched his latest project in Vancouver. This month, he introduced Bam Bam, a new cafe concept that marks a departure from his previous ventures, offering a nostalgic take on Americana-inspired fast food and coffee culture.
Global Recognition for Nemesis Coffee
Nemesis Coffee, with five locations across Vancouver and surrounding areas, has achieved significant international recognition. The World's 100 Best Coffee list placed it as number one in Canada, number four in North America, and number 15 globally, highlighting its exceptional coffee and vibrant coffee culture. This success follows the opening of Dope Bakehouse, Nemesis's standalone bakery, which features popular items like pistachio raspberry Suisse and cardamom buns.
Overcoming Adversity to Build an Empire
Reno's journey to success was far from privileged. Growing up in poverty, he left school between grades 11 and 12 to support his single father with food and rent, facing challenges such as street violence. He credits these experiences with shaping his resilience and sharp instincts, which he now uses in hiring and business decisions. His early work at Vancouver coffee pioneers Artigiano and 49th Parallel provided a foundation, and a short-lived cafe venture with his sister taught him valuable lessons that guided his future endeavors.
Introducing Bam Bam: A Nostalgic Concept
On April 1, 2026, Reno, now 32, opened Bam Bam at 160 West Georgia Street in Vancouver. This new concept diverges from the European-inspired offerings of Nemesis and Dope Bakehouse, embracing Americana themes rooted in nostalgic childhood memories of fast food and casual dining. Bam Bam features doughnuts, chicken sandwiches, coffee, cocktails, and a curated retail space showcasing Reno's fashion line. Strategically located near Amazon's tech hub and B.C. Place Stadium, it aims to capitalize on upcoming events like the FIFA World Cup.
Expanding a Culinary Legacy
With key team members like Albert Tang and Josh Shevlin, who have been with Reno since his early days, he continues to grow his business. Bam Bam represents another step in his mission to create unique dining experiences, blending personal history with innovative concepts. As Vancouver's food scene evolves, Reno's ventures remain at the forefront, driven by a commitment to quality and community engagement.
