Caffe Trieste - Calgary

Unfortunately this excellent coffee shop is hidden away in the downtown CORE mall and I just happened to notice it while looking down from the 4th floor medical clinic. The coffee is delicious and they give you a huge cup to fill yourself to whatever level you want, no refills. I had the chicken sandwich, which was enough for two meals on authentic Italian ciabatta, and the pastries are homemade and look delicious, although I didn't try any this time. They really should have a street-front outlet so more people could discover them!

What says Italy more than chandeliers, delicious coffees and fresh pastries? Malls tend to feature the same chains, and many people like that kind of predictability. The CORE shopping centre, a treasured place for downtowners and visitors alike, is lucky to have this one of a kind eatery. I only had time for an Americano, but it was as delicious as anything else I've ever had. Staff were friendly, and the selection of fresh pastries was incredibly tempting. I can't wait until I have an opportunity to grab a bite here. It is slightly off the beaten path, on the third level of the mall, near Brooks Brothers and Holt Renfrew, but a detour here will pay off handsomely. Given the status of its neighbours, it's not a cheap place, but not out of this world expensive either. I'm coming back!

Self admitted Starbucks Americano fan, don't really enjoy any of the other chains, find them to weak tasting (i.e. Second Cup) or too bitter (Artigano, Deville). Had an opportunity to stop here today, wow - fantastic. Americano is divine, Pollo salad is fantastic. Above all the service, amazing, something you don't experience to this level a lot these days. (Thank you again Denae)

At first I would walk past this cafe and think to myself that this is just another fancy coffee shop, and probably won't last. Finally I stopped in and ordered a sandwich and iced mocha. I'm hardly a sophisticated reviewer, but the food was amazing, presented well, and now I believe I know what good is really supposed to taste like. I've been back a few times and the food is always fresh (the croissant was just made) and the hot chocolate or chai are amazing. I even like the choice of music, though Rap music, Queen and Michael Jackson mixed in with opera is somewhat interesting. The prices are comparable to starbucks, but much more delicious. This is a place where you sit down and take your time with what you ordered.

The coffee is from Italy and very good. The service is warm and friendly. If you are looking to get away from the chain coffee shops, this is the place to go