- Restaurants |
- Nightlife |
- Shopping |
- Coffee & Tea |
- All
Caffe Rosso
- Hours:
Mon-Fri 6 am - 5 pm
Sat-Sun 8 am - 5 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Private Lot
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
24 reviews for Caffe Rosso
Review Highlights
-
"But I highly recommend the Thai Chicken Soup." In 2 reviews -
"The staff are always pleasant and helpful." In 3 reviews -
"Good service, great coffee and, savory scones." In 4 reviews
Loading...
24 reviews in English
-
Review from Wendy P.
My first trip to Caffe Rosso was last September. I've been back a few times since, and all I can say is this spot keeps getting better. If only there were an option to give it more than 5 stars.
I popped in yesterday for an hour for a coffee and a muffin and to get some work done. The gals in line in front of me were trying to pay with debit, one of the staff got my order going while we waited. It seemed there was a problem with the machine. The debit was down. The girls didn't have any cash with them, neither did I. The nearest bank machine meant driving back into Inglewood. Oh dear.
I've seen places shrug their shoulders at this and simply say "sorry, the debit isn't working" and leave it upto the customer to go find some cash and come back, or leave. The staff at Caffe Rosso on this day sent the two girls to go sit down and said they'd still bring them their lunch order and let them know if the debit came back online. They did the same for me with my coffee and muffin. An hour later, there was still no debit. The option? They printed out a receipt of what I ordered and asked me to come back again soon and settle up then. I offered to leave my name and number as well, I was told it wasn't necessary.
You can bet I'm going back today to pay for that muffin and coffee... and that I'll be back again after this. Not many places take the "we'll serve you anyway and trust you'll come back and cover your tab" road. You rock Caffe Rosso.Listed in: Five Star Calgary Reviews, Anybody but Starbucks, Places to go in Inglewood, Free Wifi!, Top 10 Calgary Favourites
1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
9/30/2010
The best time to go to Caffe Rosso is first thing in the morning. Especially on a Sunday. How do I… Read more »
-
-
Review from Corey W.
3/24/2012 1 Check-in Here
Nice example of one of those "off the beaten path" places you're just not aware of... Until you're aware of it!
Tucked away in Ramsey in the dirt parking lot of the Ramsey exchange project this cafe is really cute. A limited menu of coffees, snacks, baked goods and wraps makes for a change of pace from the usual coffee hang outs. The casual and clean atmosphere with tall bar tables persuaded us to stay for a bit which wasn't the original plan. We enjoyed a latte, cappuccino and muffin (which was pretty delicious). The coffee was superb and reminds me that my usual Starbucks latte is never up to par with cafes that pay more attention to the details. One of the best lattes in years to be honest.
Staff was awesome, friendly and casual, in a hip and "cool" way! Now that I have discovered this place I'll surely be back:) -
Review from Kimberly P.
Calgary, AB
4/28/2012
Success! Love discovering new places! This is way out of the way for me, but I'm always on the look-out for quaint coffee joints! Love the industrial feel, and the minimalism. Free wi-fi, and delicious americano are a must, and Cafe Rosso delivered!
-
Review from Vince F.
Calgary, AB
8/5/2011 ROTD 2/22/2012
"Oopsy - I made a poopsy!"
Pardon me? Really?
Just imagine... you're sitting in the quaint and cozy Caffe Rosso in Ramsay, just south of Inglewood and you smell something funny... not "funny, ha ha," but (sniff... sniff) "this milk smells... funny."
That's when you realize your little one has used their diaper for the reason it was made for... oh, and you've forgotten your diaper bag (cause that happens - trust me, I did).
Well, have no fear, Caffe Rosso is here to save your day, your lunch and a pending diaper rash!
Not only does Caffe Rosso have a proper change table in the customer's spacious washroom, they also have diapers - three different bags of diapers... sizes 1, 2 & 3... and what's more - they're Huggies (not some generic no-name that are poor fitting and often results in some kind of unexpected rash).
This is a pretty big deal - never in 3 & half years as a parent have I come across a coffee shop that had diapers in it. NEVER! Which means - IF you're that parent who brought your little ones on a coffee date and you've forgotten to restock the diaper bag with diapers or you've forgotten to bring the diaper bag altogether (and let's face it, it happens to everyone at least ...um ...ah ...at least once or twice) - the've got you covered!
Okay, what about the rest of the Caffe? You know what, it's pretty cool too. A bit of an industrial feel to it.
The first thing I noticed was a big, bright and spacious coffee shop. Room for everyone - staff & customers!
Loads of space for customers - coffee tables, cocktail tables, lounge chairs and sofas.
Patio seating with lots of south exposure... sun. Lots of sun.
Free WIFI - however I didn't see any available power source and I looked pretty hard as my battery died after 40 minutes - I know, I need a new battery.
The order counter is quite large - a lot of room for everyone (staff and customers a like) to order their favourite.
Choices - coffee, tea, assorted juices, water, snacks, etc.
The staff - very courteous. Actually, the best thing I noticed about the staff was their genuine willingness to serve you - you could tell they enjoyed what they were doing and they made me feel right at home.
Washroom facilities... ya, we covered that. Nice big bathroom. A bit on the dark side. Black walls, vanity, toilet and flooring... and they have diapers! Did I mention they have diapers?
Oh - and LOADS of free parking!
How could Caffee Rosso move from 4 Stars to 5?
- access to power. I'm not looking to hang out for half the day, I just don't have a very good battery and I don't like losing power.
- the bathroom could be brighter... a bit dark in there.
- the bathroom wasn't dirty but it could use a regular spot check and the small waste basket emptied... a few bits of rolled up paper towel on the floor. True, customers could actually put garbage in the... garbage...
- my vanilla latte was average... I actually didn't taste any 'vanilla'. Weird.
Bottom line, I'm a fan and I'll be back again... -
Review from Angelo T.
10/18/2011
After years and years of trying to visit this place. I finally landed @ Cafe Rosso. Its located in the strangest location (just off the blackfoot and past the train tracks) and if you don't like traffic circles you won't like going here.
Rosso's does a great cup of Americano, at least in my opinion. Unlike other cafe's I've been too, I found that I didn't have to muck around with it too much. I should have jumped in and had the thing black, but alas I am not a coffee hardcore. They also have a small but great tea selection, which beats the packets cafe's carry and try to pass off as gourmet tea. How hard is it to keep a shelf of loose leaf tea? Come on respect the tea-drinking market here folks. Anyways I also had one of their muffins- a banana chocolate chip concoction- and it was deliciousness to the max!
The staff were friendly once you get to chatting with them and the place wasn't too crowded for a Sunday afternoon. Rosso's sitting area was very comfy and I think encouraged strangers to take a chance in friendly small talk.
Alas, the main reason for my review. An hour to closing time, one of the baristas and a frequent patron decided to brew coffee using the siphon coffee method. Some intense chemistry lab contraction was pulled out and in case you're wondering:
http://youtu.be/wjH1hz...
They got hilariously secretive bout the whole thing and insisted it wasn't offered on the menu because "so many variables can go wrong". As if I wanted another cup of coffee after two Americanos!?
But guess what? I'm letting everyone know on the YELPERnet that you guys have this method on special request.
Take that, secret society science coffee club! -
Review from Crystal W.
Calgary, AB
9/21/2011
I've been to the Caffe twice now. The decor is simple but cool and the art is unique. I enjoy sitting outside and even though it's not a scenic view, it's a warm place to sit when it's sunny and the chairs are comfortable.
I find that indoors, the music is played a bit too loud and some of the chairs wouldn't be comfortable to sit on for long periods of time because a selection of them have no back rest. Also, the mocha is only average and never hot. -
Review from Chris S.
Calgary, AB
1/8/2011 2 photos
Wow this place really is as good as the review's say!
I went here over the weekend with my girlfriend and I must say I am amazed. The coffee is hands down the best in Calgary, the staff are friendly, and the food was excellent too.
For lunch I had a non-fat latte "kid's temp" - which came to me with a smiling face (will post picture later), a California turkey club panini (turkey, guacamole, tomato, cheese, mustard) and Thai chicken soup. It was delicious. The soup was perfectly spiced and really fresh, defiantly homemade.
I am going to make this place my new hang out and spend a lot of time there!
The atmosphere is very appealing too and I have made a list for you:
1) They use halogen track lighting, so the colors are enhanced and it feels warm and cozy. Ceiling is not too high but not too short. There are beams that are very relaxing to stare at.
2) The shape of the room is a square rectangle. This makes it warm and cozy and you feel as if you were home in your living room. Let me give you a quick example of what does not work: Phil & Sabastian's on 17th is one large long rectangle. The order counter is huge and tables line the long room. It makes it feel cold and people are always walking past you; ick. The square rectangle works.
3) The restaurant temperature is 74F (22C) not the typical cold Calgary 70F/20C. You feel warm and can stay all day and relax without freezing. No drafts either, door faces a non-windy direction.
4) Cool sights out the windows - next to a old factory type retrofitted building; views of a 10,000 volt sign with a cloths line next to it, cool old door thing, cool old building lights, and other views. Also there is some great artwork on the walls. Impressionistic stuff... I love it!
5) Chairs are soft, yet still firm and the tables are round glass ones - very cool looking and just the right size. There are also very comfy leather couches, plenty of plug-ins for laptops, and a good amount of tables but not too many that it feels too big.
6) Did I mention free Wi-Fi?
7) There is Splenda (What is with all these places in hating Splenda and only serving stevia. Let consumers have their choice!)
8) Good selections of free newspapers.
9) Decent scones and baked goods with a changing selection.
10) Good plates with funky shapes but not too weird; the soup and sandwich was served on a round cornered rectangle plate. It was just the right size and unique but not to the point where it draws too much attention or sacrifices functionality. It sounds stupid but this is very important. The cups for lattes are also very nice. Easy to hold, and come with these little spoons. Seriously sweet!
11) Independently owned and supports other local businesses
12) Nice bathrooms - clean and contemporary with change tables and stuff for mom's/dad's
The list goes on and on; I love this place for every little detail. It is just plain perfect in every way and I plan to spend a lot of time and money there over the next few years. -
Review from Sylvie C.
Calgary, AB
2/26/2011
I liked how this place was in the middle of no-where and probably very handy to people working in the SE industrial area. If hadn't been for the spot-specific coffee yelpy adventure, I would never had made the trip. I doubt I will ever go out of my way to return as it didn't knock my socks off, but if I were in the neighborhood, I would be fine to stop in for a cawfee and a bite.
I had an americano with room for milk & a panini for lunch. The coffee was good; the panini was okay. I liked the atmosphere, although it was kinda strange to have only one row of couches & tables with a big empty area in the between the seating & the counter. Maybe this is useful on a weekend, as Wendy says it gets busy. I don't know. Otherwise, it was a laid back place to be, and I was glad to try it out.
It definitely is a diamond in the rough as far as location goes, and other than this, I'm not sure I'm ranting or raving. Just a positive sounding, "Meh!" and a smile from me. -
Review from Cathy D.
Calgary, AB
3/7/2011
Rosso is a neighbourhood gem. Though many people rave about their coffee - I am a tea drinker and like their selection of teas. Their sandwiches are good too. I'd love to see them expand their menu a bit in the future to include a few more items.
Rosso staff are always friendly and polite. The atmosphere is cozy and warm, though good luck getting a seat at certain times of the day! A small challenge and one to be expected at a busy, popular spot. -
Review from Danielle E.
Kamloops, BC
3/1/2011
Someone at work picked up some scones from Caffe Rosso to share one day...I've been hooked ever since. The coffee is delicious, complete with a delightful little heart in the foam. I love their paninis! And of course their pastries are delightful!
It's a it of a busy place at lunch time. Sometimes it's hard to find a place to sit! The staff are always pleasant and helpful. Try a blueberry scone with an Americano Misto...yum! -
Review from Bethany W.
Calgary, AB
2/21/2011
Great food, nice service, cool & comfortable atmosphere - what more could you ask for!
Took my 6 year old cousin here to work on his homework (I'm all about bribery when it comes to getting homework done). We split a panini - which staff happily customized so my half could have no cheese while his oozed with it - and it was a hit. This picky eater told me it tasted like a cheeseburger, and a pizza, but better. Brilliant!
I also enjoyed a chai latte, and we split a chocolate muffin - yum! Stayed for about 2 hours to bust out some math learning.
Only problem might be that there are only about 10 tables. Not a super big issue when we were there on a Saturday afternoon, but I could see it filling up for sure. -
Review from Sarah B.
1/27/2009
Cafe Rosso is quite a gem.
Great espresso and freshly baked tasty treats. Ramsey is lucky to have this spot - warm, comfortable interior, friendly employees.
I can normally find something sarcastic to say about everything but Cafe Rosso is just all around good. Sans sarcasm.
Check it out...but don't check it out too much, because I like feeling cooler than everyone else who hasn't heard of it yet.Listed in: Best Calgary coffee shop…
-
Review from Sapna G.
Calgary, AB
6/1/2010
A friend of mine wanted to get together before I head out of town this weekend and he suggested we meet up at Cafe Rosso. Having never been before, I didn't let the opportunity pass me by. Boy am I glad!
Cafe Rosso is *AMAZING*. I don't even know where to start. I love the atmosphere, the staff is incredible and they serve a MEAN espresso/coffee. Plus it's almost sacrilegious to call this place a coffee house considering they go above and beyond! I'm talkin' muffins, scones and homemade bread served FRESH out of the oven, as well as soups, fresh paninis, wraps, yogurt cups, homemade granola bars, and the list goes on and on.
Plus they offer unlimited and free WIFI for all their customers.
Seriously - this place has got it all.
If you're already a regular, I am joining your team. if you've never been, then isn't it time you experienced one of the 5 star business in our city?!?!? GET ON IT! -
Review from Geoff B.
Strathmore, AB
8/16/2010 1 Check-in Here
My first experience of good coffee in Calgary. After years of Starbucks, I didn't know what a latte was supposed to taste like.
I can thank Caffe Rosso for getting me interested in espresso (my wife thanks you, too, for the hundreds of dollars of equipment I bought to feed my new habit).
I once drove 40 minutes into the city -- during rush hour -- JUST to go to Caffe Rosso and get a latte. I didn't regret it one bit!
Great atmosphere, awesome baristas, and of course, amazing coffee.
The only thing I'm disappointed with are the short business hours (only open until 5), but it's probably justified based on where they are in the city. Also, if you're a fan of flavored lattes, they do not have syrups for their drinks here. -
Review from Paul T.
Calgary, AB
1/14/2011
Just enjoying my second cup of coffee here today. Very cool, trendy but casual coffee and lunch destination with a community feeling. Food is good- veggie options are very tasty. Bought a bag a coffee beans that is roasted for Cafe Rosso by Phil and Sebastian. It's direct trade coffee-no middlemen, so the farmers get a very fair price, which hopefully protects their livelihood and the environment too.
There is plenty of parking, and it's free.
Great little place. -
Review from Bogdan S.
Calgary, AB
4/28/2010
The best coffee shop I've had a coffee at in Calgary. It is a nice quite place with style and delicious lattes. I've enjoyed it's atmosphere for almost two years now, and it will be always a nice place to return to.
Good service, great coffee and, savory scones. -
Review from Bob M.
Calgary, AB
4/27/2011 2 Check-ins Here
Caffe Rosso is one of those places where you can grab a great coffee, enjoy some baking, have lunch and not feel bad about lingering. I have held many morning meetings here over a latte and scone and there is something remarkable that happens when we do 'business' in a relaxed atmosphere while breaking bread together.
-
Review from Amanda L.
Calgary, AB
8/13/2010
Life is wonderful in Ramsay.
Crossroads farmer's market, the Valta shop... the Lilydale chicken factory...
After being transplanted here last year from the beltline I had a need to fill. A caffeine need that would have normally been sourced from Beano or Kawa needed to be found now without a 20 minute drive/bike ride across downtown.
And there amidst the rambling brick Ramsay Exchange was Cafe Rosso. The best americano I have had. The best.
We are extremely lucky to have such an amazing coffee house here in Ramsay.
The prices are fantastic.
The staff are authentically professional and courteous.
When I am downtown and want a coffee, I make a point of going out of my way to give my business to the 2nd location.
Thank you Cafe Rosso! -
Review from Roz M.
Calgary, AB
3/17/2011 2 Check-ins Here
This place is amazing... par none. There's no point writing an extensive review because everyone else says it all. But I highly recommend the Thai Chicken Soup!
-
Review from Joel S.
Calgary, AB
3/7/2010
Today I sat down, at home, and savoured a Bodum load of Terroir Brazilian Daterra roasted "Southern Italians Espresso" made strong enough to use for axle grease. I you are a black coffee drinker, such as me, you will immediately notice after a little cooling that this coffee has a natural sweetness that lingers on your mid palette for almost an hour after drinking. It has fantastic body and flavour reminiscent of a rhum baba with dark chocolate syrup. In 2007 Coffee Review gave this particular product from GH 93 points out of 100.
There is not much to say. I buy strictly beans and they carry the Terroir brand of George Howell from Acton, MA. Terroir is, simply put, among the finest coffee roasters on earth; the local Phil and Sebastian and Fratello Coffee Roasters are their equals. George Howell is the founder of the Cup of Excellence program where tens of thousands of different coffees are tasted from participating countries and and only about 2 or 3 percent make the list of excellence.
If is quality you seek, this is a must stop vendor of coffee beans. -
Review from Starsia E.
Calgary, AB
4/11/2011
We've been a fan of this place since literally before it even opened. Colin even made their website. I love getting a hot chocolate and a pannini from Rosso. The owner is a nice guy and the staff is always pleasant just like him. Try a fresh muffin or a scone. You can buy bags of their signature coffee beans as well. The panninis are made fresh when you order them and come nice and warm. I love chicken pesto one and the veggie one the most. The cafe is very clean and modern looking. They had these loose leaf teas sold in a tin last time I was there that they were selling for local vendor. I tried a few and I really didn't like them. I have a cupboard with a collection of about sixty or so loose leaf teas to compare too. If you want a good coffee and maybe a pastry then skip the conglomerates like Starbucks and Tim hortons and support this local gem. Believe me when I say I in no way have to say any of this and I would have no issue telling you if it sucked. If you don't know our neighborhood very well you may have a hard time finding it. It's on 24th ave off spiller road, Ramsay's pretty small so as long as you find spiller road you should be able to find it.
-
Review from Calgary Guy A.
Calgary, AB
1/29/2010
Caffe Rosso is a neighbourhood gem for Ramsay and worth making the drive for their outstanding coffee and fresh baked breads.
They opened up a second location at the TELUS Convention Centre downtown that should be just as popular.
Decor at the Ramsay District is pretty cool too with Italian furnishings and contemporary art. -
Review from Luke R.
3/22/2011 1 Check-in Here
not as nice as the other downtown location--this location with the exposed kitchen feels industrial. the staff are nice and you get the feeling customers feel comfortable here. a decent casual place to meet a friend for a coffee or tea.
-
Review from disaster m.
Calgary, AB
1/28/2011
great joe @ this inner city treasure
