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Block 1912
Categories: Food Bakeries Food Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Food Coffee & Tea Bakeries, Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt, Coffee & Tea [Edit]
10361 82 Avenue NWEdmonton, AB T6E 1Z9
(780) 433-6575
- Hours:
Mon-Thu 9 am - 11 pm
Fri-Sat 9 am - 12 am
Sun 10 am - 10 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
32 reviews for Block 1912
Review Highlights
32 reviews in English
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Review from George H.
I'm sure this cafe hasn't been here for 100 years but I was introduced to this place during their 100 year old building celebration. Balloons, 5 lavish cakes and live music rounded out the day.
Its an interesting decor with cozy sofas, mismatched chairs and tables but with warm colors and yummy smells.
I really like that they offer coffee, tea, espresso, food, gelato and best of all alcohol! You can everything your heart desires.
I'm not sure how much a scoop of gelato normally is but $4.50 for 1 scoop seems pretty steep. But the rent at this part of Whyte probably justifies it.
Block 1912 knows how to throw a great century party! -
Review from Alouise D.
Edmonton, AB
This sunday I went to Rapid Fire Theatre's Bonfire festival, and I decided to go to Block 1912 after. This is a great cafe. It doesn't look very big from the outside, but Block 1912 is quite large inside. There are a variety of couches, as well as tables and chairs. I love how everything is a little mismatched. It gives Block 1912 some charm and character.
I waited behind a really large group in line. I felt bad for the servers, the cafe was really busy and it was close to closing (I got there at 9:30 and they close at 10pm), but the servers were all very friendly. I ordered the spiced island latte - which sorta tasted like a chai latter, but I think it had coffee in it. I also got a dessert, a Belgian chocolate cake. The cake was good - like an overdose of chocolate, but it was a little dry. The slice of cake was huge. I think next time I'm craving dessert I'll go for a smaller tart or pastry.
The one thing I can say with Block 1912 being so large and busy is that it can hard to heard them call your order when it's ready, especially if you grab a table at the back. I'm not sure what the solution would be, because an intercom system might be too loud (or seem a little more disruptive). Either way I'd probably wait up front to get your drink before grabbing a table.
I can say that I love this place is open until 10pm on a Sunday night. That was much later than I expected Block 1912 to be open.Listed in: Must. Have. Caffeine.
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Review from Ryan C.
Edmonton, AB
This place is incredible.
The atmosphere is the best quality. You walk in and see a mix of coffee tables, dining tables, lounge chairs, arm chairs and even couches! I was instantly reminded of the "Central Perk" from the classic show that everyone loves, "Friends". If you open up any of the drawers of the tables you will find plenty of napkins that people have left behind. They have all been written on, whether it's a quote, story, secret, favorite memory or any random thought.
I think the beverages are fairly priced and very high quality. It has quickly become my go-to place for a good cup of coffee in Edmonton. Haven't sampled any of the food or desserts but have heard good things!
Highly recommend it to all! -
Review from Shannon G.
Edmonton, AB
I stopped in here twice today, once for a coffee to go and then for a cappuccino in the afternoon. The coffee was above average and while I asked for the dark roast it seemed more like a medium, it was fresh and tasty. The cappuccino was better, served beneath a mountain of foam, bright and crisp- perfect! I was disappointed not to find raw sugar among the condiments, only plain white sugar and one bathroom was out of order and the other one the sink was very slow to drain. I've been here a few times and haven't experienced a constant lack of amenities so I'll chalk it up to a one time lapse.
That being said, this might be the most comfortable place on Whyte Ave to read or chat with a friend. The couches are so inviting that I resist them only so I don't risk falling asleep on them. The mismatched table chair combinations (my favorite being the masterpiece theatre armchairs near the back), large open space that doesn't require patrons to clink up against each other, the quiet music and relaxed atmosphere will keep me coming back. Also, it's a independent alternative to the 3 chain coffee shops dominating the ave within the same 2 block radius- live local! -
Review from Meghan B.
Edmonton, AB
I've been patronizing this place for many years after having been introduced to it by a friend. The first thing I noticed about the place was the warm atmosphere. The mismatched furniture, the art on the walls, and the music makes it feel like a home away from home. They seem to stick with an oldies playlist with lots of Beatles songs.
The food is fairly priced, staff are friendly . I've overstayed my welcome many times due to papers being due for university and I didn't get any flack from the staff. They were really understanding :)
Can't go wrong with Block 1912! -
Review from Morv K.
Edmonton, AB
Large cups, great sweets and I always run into people I know in there!
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Review from Matthew L.
Edmonton, AB
Block 1912 is a pastiche of a gelateria, a coffee place, and a sandwich shop. I can only comment on the sandwich element and the overall ambience, which consists of mismatched tables and chairs and a long cavernous room. The room doesn't seem to be all that well looked after during each shift. I nearly sat in a seat with water all over it. And I don't know if it was the crooked floor or the table itself that made our table all wobbly.
And while I can't comment on the coffee or gelato, I should mention that my sandwich was decent, but nothing special at best. And a little too salty at worst. And at $13, a sandwich should be awesome. -
Review from Rachel F.
How come I'd never even heard of this place? Clearly, I don't spend enough time on Whyte Avenue.
I loved Block 1912 from the first moment I walked in. They had a perfect balance between comfy chairs and tables, allowing people to choose what worked best for their group (though my group of girl friends had to take what was available because it was packed on a snowy Saturday afternoon).
The coffee drinks here are stellar. And my friends say that the tea drinks are as well. I can't wait to come back and try the desserts. -
Review from Maria K.
Edmonton, AB
Wonderful coffees and desserts. Had a terrific sandwich special yesterday for lunch. Cool atmosphere. I often will go there to read.
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Review from Linda N.
Stopped by on a Saturday night for a scoop of ice cream. The ice cream (mint chocolate chip) was good, but I have certainly had better at gelato places, also in Edmonton. Had to wait in line twice - once to pay and once to get ice cream. Although the staff was friendly, things moved very slowly. Not only were some of those working there really slow, they also had too few people to efficiently serve the number of customers they had. Maybe the nice warm weather came as a surprise and so they didn't really expect all the ice cream customers...? I didn't have anything else than ice cream, but all the cakes and desserts they offered looked delicious.
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Review from Alex P.
Block 1912 is yet another coffee shop on Whyte ave. The shop has a large interior and is decorated rather whimsically. I enjoy the atmosphere and the comfy couches. It's fun just to sit in a corner and watch people interact.
I love love love the cake. Oh goodness. Mmm. Especially the chocolate cheesecake, with its hint of orange flavor! Whenever I crave a good slice of cheesecake, I go here. Cheesecake is expensive to make, so I don't mind paying $6 a slice.
I've tried some of the drinks though and I find it hit or miss. Most of the drinks are around $4-5 for a regular, so I expect the drinks to be around the same level of tastiness as I'd get elsewhere (Starbucks, Second Cup, etc) for the same price. The lattes and such are fine in this regard. If I want cake and a latte, perfect. Some of the drinks I tried I just plain didn't like, but I think that's a subjective thing.
The one thing I was pretty miffed about is the hot chocolate. I get hot chocolate at Da Capo all the time, where they make it with cocoa powder and leave it quite bitter. I also make hot chocolate at home with cocoa powder once in a while. For $4, I really expected that sort of thing. Instead... I got heated up chocolate milk. It was beyond nasty. I'm not a chocolate milk fan at all (I use good cocoa if I want chocolate milk at home) and this was pretty unacceptable for a "fancy" coffee shop. Yuck yuck yuck.
But cake, mm. Go there for cake. -
Review from Kaelan B.
Edmonton, AB
Went to Block 1912 for a late night gelato.
I've got mixed reviews from this place. In giving them the benefit of the doubt, I'll start with the good.
The gelato is good. I just moved here from Vancouver, where gelatop shops abound, and Block 1912 holds its own in comparison. Price was reasonable, about $5 for a single scoop which lasted me fifteen minutes. My lemon gelato has just the tartness I desire.
Decor is nice, in a slightly-fake oldworld kind of way. It's nice compared to many places, but, let's be honest, it's a mockery of an Italian gelato shop. But really, what else isn't? It's nice enough to hang around and chat. The coolest thing about this joint is one little drawer in one of the tables at the back, when contains notes, poems, and letters written on napkins by other patrons. Some date back a few years, and it's a kick to read a few while you enjoy your snack, and maybe leave one of your own.
They stayed open late for us by about 20 minutes. We weren't aware that they had switched to winter hours, and we came in about 10 minutes before they closed. On one hand, I'm thankful that they stayed open without even saying anything, and the guy who finally let us know was nice. Although I expect and demand restaurants to stay open until the last bite is done, without rushing me, gelato kind of falls under quasi-fast food (i.e., you can take it with you) so I figure that they have the right to close up on time - and it was nice that they stayed open for me.
On the other side... the lady who took our orders was an absolute bitch. Slow, not efficient, and she made my friend a terrible iced coffee. I get the feeling that she was trying to run out the clock before our order was done, until her supervisor told her otherwise. At one point, she shook her head and glared at a friend of mine as he walked away - while I was next in line, obviously in the same party!
There's a $5 minimum for debit, which I understand financially, but I always dislike this. Considering the cheapest thing in the whole place is over $4, it seems really unnecessary. Because of this I have put "does not accept credit cards."
I'll return for the gelato, but if I receive the same treatment I will bring it up with management. -
Review from Gord L.
Block 1912 is a wonderful place to grab something sweet (I've heard they also server great coffee, but I'm not a coffee person, so I've never had a cup). It's my favorite spot to hit up on a hot summer day, as they have some of the best gelato. Forget about the chain ice cream place across the street, it's all about the Block!
It's also a nice place to enjoy a piece of cake, though the price displayed for a full cake makes me laugh every time (I won't spoil it for you, but make sure you take a look when you visit, it's hilarious).
Go there enough and you'll find a favorite chair (they have many different styles), or couch, and you'll give the evil-eye to others if they end up sitting in "your" seat (or maybe it's just me). It's a huge space, but is quite popular, so you may find it tough to get a seat sometimes.
It's certain a neat place to hang out for a short stop, or all afternoon. -
Review from Lauren N.
I feel bad for giving Block 1912 only three stars on my first review. It's one of the classic establishments on Whyte that I hope will never leave.
Block 1912 got me hooked on London Fogs, and now I am scouring the city, discerning other places that will give me the same sweet, frothy rush. Guess you can call me a London Fog junkie.
It's just so nice to sit in this laid-back cafe and nurse a huge cup of tea during the cold months, or grab a gelato float for your stroll down Whyte Ave in the summer. I don't know which I love more, the drinks or the mismatched chairs and couches here ... now that I think about it, Block 1912 kind of reminds me of Central Perk on "Friends". The same casual ambiance, same relaxing and cozy atmosphere.
I only wish I had more excuses to stop by more often!Listed in: A Walk Thru Whyte
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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9/29/2008
First to Review
Again, if I could give half stars, I would give Block 1912 three and a 1/2. Every other time I've… Read more »
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9/29/2008
First to Review
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Review from Karlie M.
Went to Block 1912 the other night for my first Yelp event ever! And got two meet two great Yelpers, Brittany and Aditya :)
I've been to Block 1912 several times over the years. It's a really cool space on Whyte Ave, way bigger on the inside than you would imagine it to be looking at it from the street. The furniture is kind of like a mixture that you would find at your grandma's house, or maybe an old aunt. A bunch of tables with regular chairs, as well as some highly coveted couch spots. There are some really nice, interesting paintings all over the walls, and some random (?) items behind the counter... a cross, an elephant, a menorah, and more that I can't recall right now! I wondered aloud if they had any specific meaning, or if they just put them there for people to interpret in their own way.
I don't drink coffee, so I can't really comment on that, although it seems like there is a good selection. I had a large hot chocolate for $4. The mug was huge. I almost could have fit my head in there, so it was definitely a good value. They have sandwiches, salads and the like, but I've never eaten here. I do remember getting gelato once a long time ago and thinking it was overpriced for the amount I got, but who knows, it could be different now.
They also have free wifi, a selection of beer and wine, and really good hours (the earliest they close is 10pm on Sundays and the latest is midnight on Fri. and Sat.).
Overall, this is a really cozy space that you could easily spend hours in on a date, after shopping, for a drink after dinner, studying, knitting.... you get the idea! -
Review from Aditya R.
After being here a few more times, I've had the chance of trying out some of the food and some of the other drinks as well. I think Block 1912 is a pretty neat establishment. Gelato, quiches, coffee, wine, nice desserts etc. are part of this cafe. It's more than just a regular old coffee shop.
The space is so huge inside that it's fairly easy to get seated here, unless you drop in on a Saturday afternoon.. but Saturdays are tough days in general, on Whyte.
I would go here more often than I would do some of the other coffee shops (except for Luzzara :-) ), so in that sense I'd like to rate it pretty well. Three corners of the block on Whyte and 104th are coffee shops. This is the best of them because it's great for several other things as well.
Try the macchiato, it's pretty good too.Listed in: Whyte Ave
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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2/16/2011
Was at Block 1912 meeting up with a couple of fellow yelpers and I've got to give it to them - they… Read more »
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2/16/2011
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Review from Crystal H.
Vancouver, BC
I like a place that lets you camp out all day long. It almost feels like home with quick speed wireless. But while you could camp out all day long, surf you could not, sans big battery life. Not one plug in the place... reason told: computers could break a circuit. If you like Numi, they've got a decent selection of teas and bunches of biscotti that I wanted to dig into.
A lunch of grilled cheese and soup was tasty but luke warm and pricier than I was expecting. I watched as my meal was delivered to another table by mistake, but rather than looking for the right owner of said lunch, the barista went back to working on something else, until I abandoned a Skype call to inquire about my lunch. Being one of only a few tables, I would have expected a little more effort, but alas...
At least there's the choice of Bailey's for coffee and a whole lotta gelato love going on in the front - a summertime trek is certainly lurking for a taste! -
Review from Amy W.
Medicine Hat, AB
It is pricey, but it is pretty good quality food. My friend and I each got a slice of German chocolate cake and a tiramisu to split and I was definently impressed. I came in once for gelato and it was really creamy and delicious.
The only reason I give it only 3/5 is because I think the owner is kind of rude. I was working with a collegue and we had to drop off something for our jobs to businesses around Edmonton. I asked the owner if I could leave him the piece of paper and he said "No, if you could see the amount of paper on my desk you wouldn't want to take it either" and looked all frazzled, like the 30 seconds he spent talking with us was going to ruin his day. He was the only one out of all the businesses I've spoke to around Edmonton that acted like this. -
Review from Brittany K.
Edmonton, AB
How do I not have a review of this wonderful, wonderful coffee shop?
Only a tiny doorway leads you into Block 1912. Very deceptive indeed. Inside is an absolutely massive cafe. It goes super far back and the high ceilings really top it off. I'm not exactly sure how they got some of the art in there, like the one painting that stretches almost floor to ceiling.
I think the food is a bit overpriced ($6 for a really small salad) but you can get a good bang for your buck on coffee and tea. The cakes are definitely worth trying, too.
The staff here let you work all day on your laptop with free wireless. Too bad there isn't a single plug-in in the entire place!
Great location - perfect for hanging out between shows at the Fringe Festival or warming up after Ice on Whyte!Listed in: Four-Stars, Cups of Coffee, Hipster Hangouts
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Review from Nadz Z.
I stopped in here to grab a cheesecake slice for my birthday, and I did enjoy the cake. Quite tasty. There was quite a bit of room in the back of this little establishment, so I think I will be going back in the winter, to sit and nurse a cup of tea.
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Review from Joanna F.
Love Block 1912. Wonderful atmosphere, ridiculously comfy armchairs and sofas, great food. Definitely the best hot chocolate I've had yet in Edmonton. I love the fact that every time I go in there with friends, we run into more friends. The room is terrific, very welcoming and cozy, but also has lots of space so you can have a good conversation without overhearing everyone else's. The staff are attentive and helpful, the place is clean, and everything I've had to eat has been terrific.
I haven't got as far as dessert there yet, mostly because the drinks are so filling, but I keep getting overwhelmed by how delicious all the cakes look and can't wait to try something!
There's no parking here, but it's right down 104th from the Shopper's Drug Mart, so it's really easy to just park there and then walk half a block!Listed in: Whyte Ave & Old Strath favs
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Review from Ngina K.
Edmonton, AB
A wonderful coffee shop on Whyte! Spacious, and is filled with comfortable furniture in order to give it a home-y feel. If you choose to drink your beverage inside the shop, you're treated to a huge cup of hot loveliness (especially if you get a large!). There is also a gelato corner with many different varieties. The only downside of Block 1912 is that they don't have any plugins; it would be a great space to work or study in, but no plugins means one would have to move on within a couple of hours. Though they do provide free Wi-Fi...
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Review from Francesca K.
Edmonton, AB
I love this coffee shop. It looks small from the outside, but it is actually huge inside.
You can get almost anything here, from a coffee or a chai latte (they make their own chai here), to a cake (they have full cakes for sale, or if you are having a snack, they sell them by the slice as well), to a sandwich (they even have combo options) to gelato (they have great flavors - from tiramisu to lemon).
We stopped in here for a quick latte grab and I was impressed with the flavor of my latte and how hot it was, but I was unimpressed with the price. It cost us $11 for a latte and a tea latte. That is more than starbucks!
Other than the price, I really love this place because it is local and they have such a great range of food and drinks available.
No matter the weather outside, you can come into Block 1912 and cool down with a gelato or heat up with a chai latte. -
Review from Jeanette B.
Edmonton, AB
How could I possibly walk past this place for so many years without ever going inside? I've probably walked past about 200 times, yet it never appealed to me. After reading these great reviews though, I could not resist. And as soon as I walked in, I realized that the outside of this place does not do the inside any justice.
Block 1912 is big and beautiful with its hardwood floors, antique-like tables and chairs, and Egyptian art on the walls. Wow. It's the perfect ambiance for relaxing by yourself, chatting with some friends, or even going for a first date. The lighting in here is just perfect too--not too bright and not too dim--just a nice glow.
I thought most of the food in the display cases looked delicious, but I was apprehensive about it as well. From my experience, I've found that cafes usually have amazing desserts and drinks, but the food is mediocre or bad. Even though the mini samosas looked delicious, I passed. The pies, cakes, and cheesecakes looked delicious, however, so I decided to get a slice of the raspberry cheesecake. This came with a light whipped cream. The cake was just over five dollars, which I actually though was rather reasonable, since The Cheesecake Cafe charges over seven dollars for a smaller slice.
I sat down at a small table and after my first bite of the cheesecake, I was hooked. It was creamy and so yummy. The white chocolate pieces made this even better. It was one of the best cheesecakes I've ever had, and I think it was actually better than The Cheesecake Cafe's cakes! Sorry! I'll be coming back here--most definitely. In fact, I'm looking forward to it. -
Review from Curtis L.
Wasn't what my fiance hyped it up to be...
It's one of her old stomping grounds so we decided to pay them a visit. I guess things change over time. The place was comfortable but almost to the point of being outdated. Didn't have the gelato so I cannot comment on that. Looked like they served a good portion and people must like it if they are eating it in -10 weather. We did have a white hot chocolate that took them twice to make. The first one wasn't white. the second one was but it was a little sweet for my liking. From observing the staff...looks like they were running around with heads cut off but the patrons were patient so no big deal. Nothing set it apart for me so they are only okay. -
Review from Maria F.
Block 1912 is a lovely and cozy café. Orange walls, mismatched chairs and tables, large paintings on the wall create relaxed atmosphere, and call for a cup of coffee and long conversations. Come to this place hungry because on the menu there are coffee and tea, salads and baked goodies, pre-packed meals and gelato. There is also a bar where you can order a glass of wine or a cocktail. I am not particularly crazy about coffee here (it's too weak for my taste) but I love gelatos and biscotti(s). Around Christmas time, Block 1912 starts selling gift baskets filled with coffees (Block 1912 blends), teas and cookies. They would make great gifts, I believe.
There is absolutely nothing fancy about this place; it is simply a cozy neighborhood café with friendly staff which is fun to stop by at after a long walk on Whyte Avenue or after work. -
Review from Jack G.
Edmonton, AB
Block 1912 is pretty fantastic. It is an amazing place to hang out with friends, grab a snack or some coffee. It has a great atmosphere and the place is big but still feels cozy.
Everything here looks so good. I don't think anyone would be able to resist giving something a try here. Especially the desserts. They have great cheesecake! The place also has a bar for anyone that wants to grab a quick drink or two before heading out.
I will have to go back. -
Review from Betty D.
Spruce Grove, AB
A great cafe for a date with your girlffriends or your partner. It has a very relaxed, and somewhat romantic feel, They have light meals/food and fantastic deserts, gelato and drinks. I highyl recomend Block 1912
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Review from Yasmin S.
Edmonton, AB
One word... Chocolate peanut butter ice cream... K maybe more than one word. Simply delicious to the point where I'm craving it and make the drive from downtown to whyte ave and have even made a point to go in mid rainstorm. I've only tried the entrees once before and they were pretty delicious from what I recall. I had a late night chai latte on a date with my boyfriend a few weeks before and it tasted very authentic and didn't taste like the typical chai syrup that is generally used, I could be wrong, but it tasted great. I had a taste of my bfs latte as well and I was impressed. It is pretty hard to find a good latte around town. We were both impressed by the amount of cakes/pies available and might have to add on to my chocolate peanut delight on my next visit.
One negative thing I must mention...one of the last times I went, I went with my mom who is particular about a lot of things and does have strong opinions, but for once I did have to agree that this was unacceptable..We went in to grab some ice cream..the line was long but not out of control, so when it was our turn to order I had my scoop quickly filled and then the girl behind the case accidentally dropped the scoop on the floor..what does one usually do when something like that happens especially in a food establishment..? Get a new utensil to use or properly sanitizing the dropped tool. well, this young blonde decided that a quick splash of water was appropriate and continued to scoop on. Naturally my mother reacted and yet the girl still didn't even attempt to do anything about it and instead tried to defend her spray off as an appropriate reaction. Needless to say, not OK. If I witness something like that again I wont be returning even for my beloved ice cream. Maybe an appropriate orientation to the obviously naive young girl about food safety would be recommended. -
Review from Jennifer P.
Edmonton, AB
I really enjoy this cafe. It's so comfy, with couches you can lounge on and the furniture has an old antique feel to it. The coffees and biscotti are delicious and there's a gorgeous selection of desserts, including gelato, if the mood strikes you. If you need something more substantial there's an assortment of hearty meals, like lasagna or Indian food. For breakfast or a snack, I like the berry scones. I've spent hours in this place, deep in conversation with a friend or working on my laptop. It's comfortable, if a little big. The high ceilings give it an empty, cooler feel. If I were owner, I'd do something with levels, ceiling moulding, softer lighting and ambient music. But it's a great place to relax and get your caffeine fix. It ain't Starbucks, and that's a good thing.
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Review from Nicole B.
Edmonton, AB
Block 1912 is one of my favorite places to sit down and catch up with a friend. It has such a comfy, friendly feel to it - just like a good café should. All of the furniture is (and a lot of the dishes) are mismatched which is one of my favorite qualities - it has a unique charm to it. The sit-down area is fairly roomy and perfect for grabbing a coffee and quick break. This is also the best place in the city, in my opinion, for Italian Gelato. Whether it's +30 or -30, gelato is always a good choice. The drink menu is great! It's quite expansive and reasonably priced for specialty drinks. I was surprised the first time I ate at Block 1912 (usually you do drinks or food, you can't win at everything) but it was REALLY good! In fact, after I finished eating, I went up and ordered a second helping! It is a great place to hang out with friends - I do it regularly.
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Review from Paula K.
I went back to Block 1912 today with a friend for coffee and dessert. I already knew that Block 1912 has excellent coffee (they serve Canterbury Coffee, which is a Western Canadian company), but I have never had anything to eat here other than ice cream. I ordered the German chocolate cake and wow - double wow - it sure satisfied this sweet tooth's craving for something chocolately. It was fresh and moist, and served with a generous helping of whipped cream. It wasn't cheap (a slick of cake is over five dollars) but for an occasional treat, it was well worth it.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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10/9/2008
Block 1912 is another one of my favourite spots on Whyte Avenue. Located in an historic building,… Read more »
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10/9/2008

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