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Cafe Mosaics
Categories: Restaurants Vegetarian Restaurants Vegan Vegetarian, Vegan
10844 82 Ave NWEdmonton, AB T6E 2B3
(780) 433-9702
- Hours:
Mon-Sat 9 am - 9 pm
Sun 11 am - 2:30 pm
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- No
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Takes Reservations:
- No
- Delivery:
- No
- Take Away:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Good For:
- Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast, Brunch
- Alcohol:
- Beer & Wine Only
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Has TV:
- No
- Caters:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
29 reviews for Cafe Mosaics
Review Highlights
"...atmosphere is very cool, boho, and earthy--very Whyte Ave."
(in 5 reviews)
"Other must tries include the tofu scramble with an add-on..."
(in 2 reviews)
"and the vegan chocolate cake."
(in 3 reviews)
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29 reviews in English
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Review from Sara M.
1/24/2012 1 photo
Man brunch done right makes me happy!
I love the concise weekend brunch menu, as when given a lot of choices.... I tend to flail a bit. I opted for the tofu scramble and my dining companions had pancakes and crepes (which were raved about)
Tofu scramble is always a toss up, but this one did not disappoint. It was nicely spiced with some mixed veg, the hash browns were GOOD, the sausages were vegan, and so on. Shut up.
Free parking on Whyte on the weekends - which is unheard of in Vancouver by the way, so it felt like a HUGE score. Our server was fantastic - helpful, friendly, and attentive. The cafe vibe makes it feel like you could be brunching at home, they play wicked music - loud, aaaaaand the dudes working in the kitchen sport the most ahdorable aprons! LOVE.
I will definitely be back to try the dinner menu. -
Review from Tony D.
Edmonton, AB
1/15/2012
Personally not a vegetarian or vegan, I came solely based on recommendation of a friend. To be quite honest, this is a hidden jewel on Whyte Ave.
The falafel and Bomb burger were amazing. Although the sides were a tad simplistic, the main dishes were outstanding. For a small, cozy experience with hearty food, definitely check it out! -
Review from Lindsay B.
Edmonton, AB
11/16/2011
My veggie lovin' bestie first introduced me to truly vegan/vegetarian eats here, at cafe mosaics.
I can say my virgin veggie eyes and I were slightly wary at first, and only a little daunted by the menu and it's ingredients, but I certainly wasn't disappointed. Now, it's a recurring venue for my veggie chum and I. I'm happy to satiate my protein hankerings on the varied menu offerings.
Food I've come to know and love:
Cafe Mosaics take on a Fallafel, Portobello sammie, Veggie BLT (the tofu is so perfectly crisp and crunchy - you wouldn't know it's not bacon!), and the vegan chocolate cake. The first time I ever had the cake, it boasted to-die-for dark chocolate covered grapes. oh-em-gee....
I've always found the servers completely amicable and lovely. The times I've been, they've always been attentive and helpful. No complaints.
Lastly, I love the art on the walls. Locally produced, adds to the "Whyte Ave-ness" of the restaurant, and each peace really acts as a conversation starter.
TIP: being a smaller restaurant, heed this warning: the quarters are a smidge tight, I wouldn't take more than four people per party. Maybe six, but that'd be it.
Be adventurous! -
Review from Jessica L.
Edmonton, AB
1/14/2012
My veggie friend and I had plans for lunch and found ourselves at Cafe Mosiac. We were seated promptly in the small restaurant and brought piping hot tea quickly. The restaurant was very empty for lunch time so we basically had the place to ourselves. I ordered the curry and my friend soup. The curry was ok. It was a bit sweet for my tastes, but the veggies were very fresh and plentiful. I finished it and was full and we sat and talked for another three hours. The room is comfortable and the prices are pretty good! I can't say Cafe Mosiac left me dying to come back for more, but I am happy I finally made it to this little Whyte Ave cafe!
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Review from Alex P.
7/7/2011
I think I just have the worst luck with this place. The first time I went there, I was with a larger group (6 people.) Everyone else's food turned out fine, but they got half of my order wrong (I didn't bother to correct them and just ate it anyway), and the other half, which was pancakes, were totally undercooked! I could tell that the batter they used was tasty, but it was hard to finish eating them when raw pancake batter oozed out from the middle.
The second time I went there, I tried pancakes again. I was only with one person, so I thought they'd be less rushed to get everything out on time. Well, I guess they got a little too chill, because they came out completely burnt! I'm talkin' looked like well done toast burnt. They weren't very good.
The third time I went I just wanted a lighter meal, so I got some rye bread toast and hash browns. The hash browns were burnt on the outside and raw on the inside. The toast was fine, but it was just plain rye bread (the kind you can get at the grocery store) and I only got two slices for the three bucks or so I paid, which I thought was a huge ripoff. Maybe if they included home made jam it would be worth it.
The weird thing is, every time I went, everyone with me seemed to like their food. Still, I wasn't impressed. Most of the stuff on the menu was stuff that's easy to make at home, and based on my samples of friends' dishes, it didn't really taste any better than home cooking either. I strongly believe that if I'm paying restaurant prices, usually more than twice as much as grocery prices, it better be something that I can't replicate at home. All in all, this place just isn't for me. -
Review from Aditya R.
I'd love to have given Cafe Mosaics more than a 3 star review. It's a decent place that's a little dated in their idea of being modern. It's okay if they were old school, but they're not. The menu is filled with vegan friendly and vegetarian options along with a variety of interesting sounding dishes. The prices are quite good too. The quality of the food is okay. Nothing that really blows me out of my socks or makes me think - wow, what a gem of a place!
I remember having the portobello mushroom salad here recently and found the dressing too be too strong in flavor - too much of balsamic vinegar. The mushroom pieces were tasty but the greens were just too hard to eat. They also have a simple house coffee that's reasonably strong and works for a morning jolt.
The ambience is slightly hippie in feel and reflects the older culture of Whyte that seems to be getting lost nowadays. Lots of posters of music, comedy and theatre adverts on the wall. The staff is friendly and approachable and the service is pretty fast. I think it's a lovely little place but they need to work on their menu and make the tastes a wee bit more subtle. -
Review from Jason L.
Edmonton, AB
While I like to eat healthy, I'm 100% omnivore and could never give up meat. Not that I need meat at every meal, but I wouldn't give up all the wonderful roasted, braised, grilled, broiled and barbecued joints, flanks, loins, ribs and butts. Similarly, there is nothing better than grilled asparagus or crisp Asian slaw, a well made Ratatouille. Only eating meat or only eating veggies doesn't make sense to me. I was taught to eat with British table manners, so you mash a little starch and veg on the back of your fork after spearing some meat - every mouthful was a blend of the food groups.
The wonder of Cafe Mosaics is the it doesn't matter, there. The food is simply terrific. Sure, their menu is all vegan or vegetarian (not the same thing at all), all that matters is that it's all good. It doesn't matter that there's no meat involved. No one's thinking, "I wonder how they'll simulate the meat?". It's all, "How is this so delicious?". Dishes are inspired from all over the globe: Mexico, Asia, Mediterranean, plus their own take on staples like the clubhouse, burger or grilled cheese. Service is fast, friendly and knowledgeable. They don't look down on you as a "meat criminal". Décor is sleek modern urban with a small intimate room. Great place to take your new veggie girl on the first date. Kitchen is efficient and pretty quick.
I ended up there because I ate this giant burger yesterday, and felt like I was slipping into a meat coma all day long, so I stopped in to have the Veggie Pho to rebalance my humours. It's sort of my version of going on a purge. -
Review from Melannie B.
Edmonton, AB
2/6/2011
I've been here twice. The first time I had a tofu sandwich and the other I had the falafel (wrapped in a pita) with the soup of the day (potato/leek).
Each time I thoroughly enjoyed my meal and really do not have anything negative to say about the place. Because I went during the day it wasn't too busy but because it is such a small place I could see how it might be hard to get in at certain times (like dinner rush). The one negative thing (which really isn't a huge deal) is that they do not take debit. You need to pay with cash. -
Review from Kat B.
Edmonton, AB
11/6/2010
I have been here twice, once for dinner and once for breakfast. For breakfast I had the vegan cowgirl something or other, it was a southwest thing with tofu, tomatoes, peppers and black beans. I think it was the pinacle awesome thing for vegan breakfast. I have been experimenting at home to reproduce the wonderful meatiness that they created without any meat.
For dinner, I ordered the veggie loaf, it came with some wondefully flavoured potatoes and a salad with some pink dressing. The loaf was a well spiced veggie concoction that made me giggly with happiness.
On both visits the service was great, casual and not rushed at all. Ambiance was lovely. No complaints, at all. -
Review from Dayna S.
Vancouver, BC
11/28/2010
The menu is not so groundbreaking. However, the atmosphere and the flexibility of the kitchen with respect to dietary restrictions is a welcomed thing.
I chose the veg pho, others at my table were happy about the falafel (which is on special on Fridays).
Overall, a nice choice when visiting a city with very few options for the vegan gluten-free diet. -
Review from Colin J.
Edmonton, AB
8/1/2011
The best vegetarian restaurant I've eaten at in Edmonton, a close second to the best I've eaten at ever! It's got a great homey feel and very pleasant staff. The menu has a wide variety of options and even my friend who is vegan and allergic to soy and chickpeas (not joking about this) was able to find a few things on the menu.
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Review from Patricia M.
Edmonton, AB
7/11/2010
Edmonton severely lacks vegan & vegetarian options and as a non meat eater, dining out is near impossible in this city. I've heard many great things about Cafe Mosaics so I was excited to finally give it a try - HUGE disappointment.
The food choices were exciting and interesting (in theory). They have a horrible selection of beverages (Jones Soda, beer, and tap water) and very dirty tables/chairs. Our food arrived quickly (veggie burger with hash brown & vegetarian chilli with salad) and the portions were large.
My veggie burger pattie was good, very good actually. However, the hash browns were uncooked and oily. The chilli was mediocre and caused huge stomach upset. You could tell the food was cooked in a rush.
I am giving this place a low rating because there was no care put into our meals, the meals were just meh, everything was dirty, the bathrooms were nasty, the doors were broken, the music was horrible, and like everyone else has said, the service is AWFUL and condescending. -
Review from Jeanette B.
Edmonton, AB
Cafe Mosaics fuses vegetarian with super healthy and makes the most delicious dishes that you never thought possible. I've been here quite a few times, and I've never been disappointed.
The atmosphere is very cool, boho, and earthy--very Whyte Ave! The servers are really nice, sometimes a little shy, but I find that kind of cute. The menu is pretty extensive, offering veggie and vegan dishes. The veggie burger is the best I've ever had, and the tofu stir fry is amazing. You can get this with brown or white rice, and the sauce is so good; I really want to know the recipe.
I've had desert here too, including a dairy-free chocolate mousse and an apple and peach cobbler. The crumble on it was so good, and it was made with really healthy ingredients such as flax seed.
Cafe Mosaics is also very good for catering to certain diets restrictions, so do not be afraid to tell them your concerns. I definitely recommend this place to anyone who isn't a fan of vegetarian food. I'm sure it will change your mind.Listed in: Best Food in Garneau/Old…
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Review from Robin S.
Edmonton, AB
10/9/2008
I've arrived here slightly too late for Sunday brunch on countless occasions, but the times I've made it in early enough have been exquisite.
The menu- all vegetarian and vegan fare, rare for Edmonton - has so many interesting items on it, it's tough to make a choice; last time I tried the garlic grilled cheese, which, although super tasty, became almost too garlicky for this garlic-lover by the end. Probably wasn't the best date choice, anyway, but my friend seemed very happy with his huevos rancheros.
Its only real downside is that Cafe Mosaics can get absolutely stifling, particularly if you're visiting on a hot summer's day. Somehow my appetite seems to disappear in the heat; a fan or two to get the air circulating would make a huge difference.Listed in: Best of Old Strathcona
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Review from Albert A.
Edmonton, AB
1/7/2011
For vegetarian food, it's very flavorful. Good weekly lunch spot.
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Review from shawnna p.
Edmonton, AB
5/18/2010
On May 17th, 2010, I took my friend to Cafe Mosaics for her first time.
We are not vegans, but occassionally enjoy eating this way and trying new dishes. It had been a few years since my last visit, so I was interested to see if and how it had changed. I was pleasantly surprised. The "Cowgirl' breakfast was presented in a new way and tasted wonderful. Those burnt potatoes are a thing of the past. My friend enjoyed a homemade vege-chicken burger. Lovely, large portions and fresh ingredients. The friendly server kept the coffee coming and was attentive to us without hovering. The prices are 10-12 bucks per entree. I must mention again that the portions are huge. I'm a big eater and could not finish my plate. The music is great. Yes, it's still loud, but the tunes are great. Bright and clean. I'll be back. -
Review from Paula K.
9/29/2008 1 photo
Café Mosaic is a popular Whyte Avenue dining destination, especially amongst Edmonton's artistic folks, activists, and the like. Its small, intimate layout, regular rotation of local art, and music blaring overhead, only adds to the atmosphere of independence.
Café Mosaic is one of the few all-vegetarian restaurants in Edmonton. Many menu selections are vegan (or could be prepared that way if you ask your server) - no dairy or eggs. The ample menu has sections for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and even kids.
The felafel - lightly fried balls of chickpea paste served in pita bread - is the establishment's specialty and on sale for lunch on Fridays. Other must tries include the tofu scramble with an add-on of "bacon" or "sausage", and the homemade fruit and granola. -
Review from Nicole B.
Edmonton, AB
3/7/2010 1 photo
The quality of food here is outstanding!
It's a small, quaint little place on Whyte Ave and it's great!
Each dish is prepared well and it's all fresh. They care about their food here - it's a far cry from something like Denny's. You can tell that they put a lot of care and time into their food at Mosaics.
I'm a huge carnivore so I was skeptical about trying this place but I'm so glad I did. It was so good! I didn't know vegetarian restaurant could leave me so satisfied.
The breakfast is really good here. It was delicious! I didn't miss my normal dose of bacon at all!
If you haven't been, check it out! -
Review from Jack G.
Edmonton, AB
12/3/2009
Cafe Mosaics is a very unique place, tiny and comfortable..
But the service leaves something to be desired. They barely talk to you and it took over 15 minutes for the girl to bring the bill. She didn't ask how the food was or if we needed anything. I felt like I was causing them an inconvenience. They were really slow getting the food out and then claimed the kitchen was really busy.. even though the place was pretty much empty.
The menu is all vegetarian, I wasn't to into it, and the quality wasn't very good. The soup seemed like it was just warm water with no flavor.
I don't even think I would suggest it to a vegan. -
Review from Peter O.
Edmonton, AB
8/22/2009
Café Mosaics is a nice restaurant with a nice vibe. Unfortunately, the product doesn't match the pitch.
To the point: the food is boring, standard fare. I find that much of it is simply lower-quality, pricier versions of the food I eat at home. It's certainly edible, but there's much better. I'd go as far as to say that it's my least favorite vegetarian fare that I've had. Being a vegan in the area, however, I've spent a fair bit of time there, and I've found that the menu does vary in quality. Sandwiches are great, breakfasts bland. Save room for the vegan chocolate cake too. My recommendation, however: go to Friends & Neighbours next door and have their Vegetarian Sandwich.
Before moving to Edmonton, I asked a vegan friend from here about vegetarian dining. He said "there's nothing that great here, but for lack of better options, people go crazy over average food." While this isn't a fair generalization (see the deliciousness of Padmanadhi, Langano Skies, ...) I now realize he had Café Mosaics in mind. He did have a point though: take a first-timer here and they'll enjoy it. However, why settle for worse? -
Review from Harish I.
1/5/2010
this is truly a GEM that is almost hidden in YEG. It is this cool place that you always like to go due to its unique menu, good food, friendly service, funky ambiance and cool music.
considering how miserably most Edmonton food joins fail in terms of service and food, this is a refreshing change.
Nice things:
- Good coffee
- Serve breakfast all the time
- good hash browns
- Very unique menu and secret burrito and tofu scramble were pretty good
- Moroccan chickpea soup was really good -
Review from Betty D.
Spruce Grove, AB
11/30/2010
Its a little pretentious, which is never really a good thing and the food is just alright... it could be better
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Review from Charlie S.
Edmonton, AB
1/18/2010
Mosaics was always a cute little quirky environment with interesting music, despondent waiters (some not all), but for the reviewers who think the food is great or unique they must live in a vaccuum. Over priced and only as good as it's neighbours , typical of this city.
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Review from Jessica D.
Edmonton, AB
2/8/2011 1 photo
I haven't been here in a while, and the only reason for my return is a coupon I had for it. God bless 2 for 1. But this isn't because the food is bad. The menu is really hit or miss. Some things are really good some.. not so much.. I guess since the last time I've been here the restaurant has changed hands and some things on the menu have changed. I remember one of the first times coming here I got the grilled tofu and peanut butter sandwich (don't knock it till you try it) which is sadly not on the menu anymore.. Anyways. This time around I had the falafel sandwich, which is a monster of a meal and never seemed to end($12.45) with a side of chips and hummus. My friend got the chicken burger ($12.45) which I don't remember being on the menu but was incredibly delicious ( I was pretty jealous). Everything was cooked perfectly and the portions always generous. To finish it off we got a nice huge slab of chocolate cake to share ($5.95?) which is as delicious as I remember. I will definitely return if I run by another coupon but as yummy as this place is, it will never land on a "must return, craving cafe mosaics" thought pattern.
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Review from John D.
Edmonton, AB
7/4/2009
I really like the felafel here, they put banana peppers and pickles on it, strange but good. Some of the food is better than other stuff, but none is bad. The place is small but has a nice feel to it, with loud music and filled with cute hipsters and new local artwork. Oh and its all vegetarian, which is always a plus, and makes the atmosphere that much better.
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Review from Samantha M.
8/12/2008
Came here on the recommendation of someone at a store down the street, and boy that was a good idea. Hands down the best vegetarian meal I've ever had, as well as the best meal I had in Edmonton. The grilled tofu sandwich is simply amazing and the vegan ceasar salad ain't bad either.
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Review from Cameron M.
9/20/2010
My curry vegetable plate was excellent- all fresh and not overcooked. The place is a bit of a hippie throwback- not dirty but definitely beat up and funky. For the food, it is good, for ambience, it is ok but would not impress some dates or clients!
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Review from Jennifer P.
Edmonton, AB
10/19/2008
I have heard so much about Cafe Mosaics and when I finally got there I wasn't disappointed. They serve vegetarian fare and there's a sign on the door that says "Tofu Rulz!" I was sold at Tofu. They know what to do with those tasteless blocks of soy so that you don't miss meat for a millisecond. I ordered the surprise burrito, with tofu, rice, cheese, teriyaki, cilantro spicy salsa and sour cream. It was huge, and I was only going to eat half, but I couldn't ... stop ... myself. My lunch was delicious, and I'll be back to try other things on the menu. They unapologetically play rock loudly here. In fact, there's even a sign above the counter that says "we don't take music requests. We like our rock and we like it loud." The service is efficient, if lacking a bit in personality. I found the servers were a bit stand-offish, like one might expect in too-cool-to-smile-at-you Toronto. And there's no debit, which is kind of annoying. But the food was excellent, and I'll go again.
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Review from Y. C.
6/27/2010
Quality has gone downhill. The service isn't so hot either. You'd think that a place like this would be more sensitive to dietary restrictions, but when one asks for no tomatoes one expects no tomatoes.
