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!
Mar 15, 2026
on Google
🍽️
Know where to eat in Montreal before everyone else.
Get the first look at the hottest openings, secret menus, and RestoMontreal.ca's weekly top picks. Join 50,000+ foodies.
Spremuta, pas fraîchement pressée comme avant 😞 pas bon,
Panettone pas frais : sec : donc pas bon, coupé d'avance, j'ai vu un sac où ils sont tous coupés d'avance donc ils sèchent : déception ☹?
Très décevant comparativement à quand Giuseppe & Gino lavorano li 🤩💖
Svp redresser le tir pour l'amour de la qualité
Per che sia più italiano o come in Italia per favore
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.
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.
As an Italian I had to try the Caffè Italia in Montreal!
Such a great atmosphere & the espresso was simply superb.
I loved everything about the place as it seems to be in an old bar in one of the old parts of my hometown.
Apr 13, 2025
on Google
🍽️
Know where to eat in Montreal before everyone else.
Get the first look at the hottest openings, secret menus, and RestoMontreal.ca's weekly top picks. Join 50,000+ foodies.
Caffè Italia is a charming, old-school gem that has stood the test of time-quite literally, since 1956. The moment you step inside, you're greeted by a cozy, nostalgic atmosphere that feels like a slice of authentic Italian tradition.
I ordered their cannoli & latte, & both were absolute perfection,a perfect pairing.
Some places don't need lengthy reviews because they speak for themselves, & Caffè Italia is one of them. If you appreciate timeless quality & old-world charm, this café is a must-visit.
We stopped in on a suggestion from a friend who grew up in the area. Absolutely fantastic. We live in NYC & sadly these type of shops no longer exist in NYC little Italy. definitely has it's own vibe & isn't trying to be new or hip, just a delicious old school Italian coffeeshop. I'd drive back to Montreal just to come here again.
More family-run, warm, Italian perfection does not exist in Montreal. The owners are ever present & the wonderful gang of people working there are indistinguishable from the owners. They rarely make'em like this anymore! Oh, & the coffee is the best in town.
The vibe here is sort of like an old school, neighborhood diner. Very personal & cozy. Not super decked out nor instagrammable. The coffee is definitely Italian made. It has that extra roast/ burnt flavor to it. I ordered an oat decaf latte. It was strong but not bad.
