Reviews describe Caffè Italia as a beloved, old school Italian cafe with a warm neighborhood vibe and a standout coffee program. The cappuccino and other espressos are repeatedly praised for balance and crema, with many saying it is among the best in the city. Cannoli, biscotti and fresh pastries pair well with drinks, and the panini and croissants are also highly recommended. The atmosphere is described as authentic and inviting, with lingering aromas of roasted beans and a sense of being in a traditional Italian cafe. Service is usually fast and friendly, though peak times can bring longer waits. The place is regarded as a local institution and a must visit for true Italian coffee and atmosphere, offering good value without sacrificing quality. While a few notes mention uneven service on busy days, the overall sentiment highlights top quality coffee, delicious treats, and a nostalgic, old world charm.
Truly the best, most authentic Italian coffee shop in the city. Staff is amazing & the coffee is incredible. Make sure to treat yourself to a sandwich!
Caffè Italia has that perfect Italian café vibe. The smell of roasted beans, the people, & the energy make it feel like a real slice of Italy in Montreal. It is the place to be if you want true Italian espresso & atmosphere.
They only serve coffee, & it is excellent. The espresso is rich & smooth, & everything tastes fresh. They also have really good panini. We tried the turkey & the mortadella, & both were delicious & well made.
A classic & authentic spot worth visiting if you want real Italian coffee & a simple but great bite in Little Italy.
Great little spot in little Italy just popped in for a coffee before we went to the market across the street. Quick friendly service, definitely a local hangout.
Absolute the Best Coffee house outside of Europe. Everytime we visit Montreal this is a must stop for my wife & I. Such a great vibe at Caffe Italia. We just got back from Italy, Rome, Naples & Positano & this wonderful coffee shop could hold its own in any of those places. Besides the great coffees, they offer wonderful pastries & sandwiches. Their cannoli are simply amazing. Their croissants are also awesome. Try the Croissant Sarni.
But the coffees, oh the coffees are so amazing.
Can't wait to get back.
Paul
Calgary
Today was going to be the last time I would drink their over-hyped coffee. No longer will I (we) accept bitter, burnt tasting coffee. Note: both the Cappuccino & Macchiato tasted aweful. Over the years, this place has become incredibly over-rated. The only thing left is the ambiance that lures people into their web. BTW, many others feel the same way I do & just stopped coming here. Sorry to be so tough, it just had to finally be shared. Stop taking your clients for granted.
Caffè Italia is a fantastic spot for coffee lovers & food enthusiasts alike. Their coffee & latte are absolutely amazing, with rich flavors & perfect consistency. The biscotti & cannoli are freshly made, offering a delightful crunch & sweetness that pairs wonderfully with their drinks.
The sandwich selection is also great, with a variety of tasty options to choose from. What makes this place even better is how affordable everything is, giving you high-quality food & drinks without breaking the bank.
If you're looking for a cozy café with delicious offerings, Caffè Italia is definitely worth a visit!
I had a wonderful experience at Italia Café in London! The atmosphere was cozy & inviting, the coffee was rich & perfectly brewed, & the desserts were absolutely delicious. The staff was friendly & attentive. A lovely spot for a relaxing break - highly recommended!
Jul 7, 2025
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I used to visit this place occasionally without any issues. In the past, they'd always take your order or at least acknowledge you if you were waiting or seated inside.
I walked in, said'Hi' to the tall buff guy with glasses (don't know his name), & was seated at a table. I waited over 10 minutes, yet he walked by me several times without acknowledging us. He didn't seem very friendly or welcoming.
Meanwhile, I noticed a table of four older gentlemen nearby me who were able to place their order directly from their table without any problem.
It's one thing to work in the service industry, but another to act dismissively. Which is exactly how we felt. & just so you know, I'm half Italian, so I'm well aware of service expectations.
After waiting so long, we got up & moved to the bar to wait. The other barista, who was making coffee, completely ignored us & served others who had just walked in, even though we'd been there first. (He didn't seem very observant either.)
The place wasn't even busy, there were fewer than 10 people inside.
If they don't know you, does poor service seem to be the result? Or is it just favoritism? A bad day? I honestly can't tell.
They could definitely improve when it comes to service & hospitality.
Step into Caffè Italia & you'll swear you've landed in the heart of Rome-without ever leaving Montreal! 🇮🇹☕ This legendary spot on St-Laurent has been serving up authentic Italian charm & the city's best coffee since 1956, & it's still the real deal.
From the moment you walk in, you're greeted by the warm buzz of locals chatting in Italian, the aroma of rich espresso, & the sight of regulars debating soccer or catching up over cappuccinos. The old-school vibe is unbeatable-think vintage photos on the walls, friendly staff, & a crowd that feels like family.
The cappuccino here is a must-try: perfectly creamy, topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon, & as close to Italy as you'll get in Montreal. Pair it with a fresh cannoli or a classic panini & you're set for a true Little Italy experience. Outdoor seating lets you soak up the neighborhood's energy, making it the perfect spot for people-watching or a relaxing break before hitting Jean-Talon Market.
If you love authentic flavors, genuine hospitality, & a slice of Montreal history, don't miss Caffè Italia. This is more than a café-it's a local institution, & every coffee lover should experience it at least once!
Great place for Italian coffees, excellent choices of sweets & delicious sandwiches. Everything is reasonably priced along with great service. I have been coming here most of my adult life. It's a true gem & landmark in little italy.
