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Kawa Espresso Bar
- Hours:
Mon-Fri 7 am - 11 pm
Sat 9 am - 11 pm
Sun 9 am - 9 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
51 reviews for Kawa Espresso Bar
Review Highlights
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"Hands down THE BEST lattes in the city." In 3 reviews -
"...meet to work on projects, talk business or just hang out." In 5 reviews -
"Coffee shops are social hubs and I like Kawa's coffee and..." In 10 reviews
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51 reviews in English
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Review from Jonathan A.
Calgary, AB
4/9/2012 2 photos
I am absolutely in love with Kawa [Ka'va]. I work at Edges Salon + Spa next door and frequent Kawa for food and drinks. My current favourites are, "Ham & Cheese Croissant", "Perogies (they're so damn good here!!!)", and "Prosciutto & Sundried Tomato Cream Cheese Bagel"
All the staff here are amazing and even willing to bring my lunch over to work sometimes :'D
If you want an awesome iced-cap-like drink try and see if there's a girl working who has long almost black hair and ask for a Coy Special Drink. She's the only one that'll know what you're talking about and make you an awesome drink. The only thing is that it's a little different each time, but that's part of the fun :')
Once again, I'm totally in love with Kawa and will always want more.
My instagram is currently full of pictures of food from there haha :P -
Review from Heather I.
Calgary, AB
Updated - 4/10/2012
I still love the coffee, but it's time for a facelift. You remember how it was when you first started out and all your furniture was inherited from other people's basements or if you were really lucky - Ikea.
After a few years, the wear and tear became a little too noticeable and you realize that assembling your own furniture, while fun, doesn't quite hold the same cache that it once did.
Kawa - You've made it through a few years, now it's time to elevate the rest of your business to the level of your coffee. No more duct tape on chairs, tighten up your service (those that serve coffee in the am should have HAD their coffee before dealing with customers), and fix your on again off-again internet. You've got a sweet little diagonal combo going with Jelly Modern Donuts and you need to keep that going ok?1 Previous Review: Show all »
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10/31/2011
I come here a lot and I can't believe that I haven't told you about how much I like it yet. I'm… Read more »
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Review from Dan D.
2/16/2012
While I do not drop by Kawa OFTEN, I am really glad it is there.
Primarly for two good reasons ... okay, three ...
1. The coffee is great. No, really. Really great!
2. They serve fancy beers. Not that I ever GET beer when I am here ... but I like that you CAN!
3. They are open late. Later than most coffee shops! I think that is definitely a smart move and definitely sets them apart from the rest.
Kawa, I SALUTE YOU! -
Review from Tiffany N.
Calgary, AB
2/15/2012 1 photo
I came here tonight with Miss Sarah Louise. In the seven minutes we were there, we got tea, had a seat, and watched as an eldritch gentleman took a bite out of a cake; laughed loudly and muttered to himself, "WHAT IS CAKE??", threw it out and then paid for it at the front counter while giggling that it had been delicious.
But, my chai *is* delicious and warmed my hands on the cold walk outside :). Will have to come back in the daytime when cake wasters aren't afoot.Listed in: F, F, D, HK
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Review from Elle C.
1/10/2012
Being here on several occasions late night, and the only java place open, I have found that the noise level is unconventional for a chat over coffee. So I visited during the day but parking is impossible, circling several residential blocks for a spot only to find it's permit or loading zone. And if you are a criminal like me and park at the safeway and walk over...yes you will get a ticket. =( But you know, that's how criminals roll. Sort of a bummer.
However, Kawa is still a great spot that serves a small (but always good) selection of hot food, desserts (yummy), great lattes and ALCOHOL. You know, so you don't have to spike your own coffee or incase you wanted to meet over coffee but you really just wanted to get smashingly drunk...or maybe your date isn't going that well. Depending on what your tastes for venue are, Kawa is at least a-ok! -
Review from Tara M.
12/20/2011
Kawa has an amazing London Fog. It tastes like London Fog cake in a pretty white mug, delicious.
Unfortunately, as good as the London Fog (and little biscottis and lattes) are, Kawa lacks heavily in the food department.
In the times I have eaten there, the ingredients have been less than fresh or the overall taste has been bland. The flatbreads come on a pre-made, frozen pizza crust a la Safeway, the soups have been bland overall and the panini crusts are overdone. I fear that if I ordered bacon, it would be microwaved. This is disappointing since it's around $40 for two people to eat lunch at Kawa; $40 is a touch on the high side for a coffee joint IMHO.
Kawa is good at drinks and nibbles, coffees, lattes, London Fogs, teas, biscottis, little shortbread cookies, cakes and the like; so stick to the liquids and skip the lunch and you'll enjoy Kawa Espresso Bar.
T. -
Review from Joe H.
1/1/2012
My wife and I visit Calgary regularily and Kawa is a *required* stop on every trip. Every cup of coffee I've ever had there has made me stop and think "WOOOOOOW That is GREAT". The food is wonderful, the decor is inviting and the service is quick.
I'm knocking off one star because the majority of the staff, while being great baristas who make amazing coffee, are emotionless. There's no warmth or friendliness, they can't take a compliment and you get shrugged at if you ask for a recommendation. It makes the ordering experience feel cold and intimidating. Some employee warmth would warrant another star because everything else about kawa is *amazing*. -
Review from Chris P.
12/23/2011 1 Check-in Here
Popped in here to grap a London Fog after a visit to Jelly Modern across the street. The staff were really nice and friendly. I like the atmosphere; modern, cozy, kinda sexy, well done.
Unfortunately my fog wasn't that great. It was fine, but nothing special. -
Review from Patricia M.
Edmonton, AB
10/6/2011
Kawa Espresso Bar is amazing. As a Polish person I instantly noticed that it was named after the Polish word for coffee. I should note, it is pronounced KAH-VA and not KAH-WAH! . I also noticed that they sell a large selection of polish juices, candy, and desserts.
The coffee is delicious and my very token Polish poppy cake was fresh. The atmosphere is very urban and the music is fantastic.
I am so sad that there is no Kawa in Edmonton. -
Review from Angelo T.
Updated - 11/21/2011 2 Check-ins Here
Kawa has such a weird nightlife ambiance that I can't seem to put my finger on. Both times I've gone there was either a dj or a live band playing. Personally, I think the linear space doesn't really strike me as a place to have such performances. The right side of the shop where they have dj's and performer's playing seemed a little small and limited to those that came to enjoy, while the left side somewhat allows people to escape the noise created from the left side.
Kawa also serves wine and beer and keeps a tab running for people. It is a convinient place to get some work done pre-night crowd and have a pint to have during date-conversation. Or if you're willing to meet some laid back folks, just turn around and chat with the person behind you.
*Nicholson's Randall McMurphy voice* "It's humanity at it's best man..."
20/30Listed in: Remember remember this…, YELP RULES! so shut up about…
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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9/6/2011
The first thing I usually try at any new coffee place I visit is their Americano. But on this day I… Read more »
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Review from Sabahat N.
Calgary, AB
9/19/2011 1 Check-in Here
Checked out Kawa Sunday morning after my gym session. I wanted to sit and enjoy a coffee solo, and had read great reviews about Kawa.
I ordered the clover coffee (thanks Wendy!) and the cheese bun. The guy who took my order was nice enough - didnt rush me or make me feel stupid when I asked for a 'small' clover coffee and he explained to be that its a one-size deal. Anyway, they then served my clover coffee in those 'french press' containers, which was a pleasant surprise, and gave a warm cup on the side. I loved the warm cup. No one does that anymore, anywhere I go! Such amazing attention to detail - it really elevated the coffee experience for me. When I tried the clover coffee, I wanted to tell the world - it was DELICIOUS. Some of the best coffee I have ever tried, seriously. Just add some cream, and you're good to go! No sugar needed! It tasted amazing even without cream! The 'french press' thingy easily had 2 cups of coffee in it. I drank it up like it was going out of style. Mmm mm mmm!!
The cheese bun was good too, but was outshined by the coffee.
As for the establishment itself, it was a nice contemporary decor. It was almost packed. The energy in the cafe though, left something to be desired. Maybe it was because it was a lazy Sunday morning, but people were not happily chattering away like they usually do in a coffeehouse. Not the bustling energy I would expect. It was almost kind of low-key, but not.
Anyway, I am definitely going back with friends. The clover coffee is calling my name, I can hear it. -
Review from joon o.
Calgary, AB
6/6/2011
Not even the pseudo sheik nuance of this establishment could shake the sense of under-qualified baristas and rushed preperation.
With the title of 'espresso bar' comes an expectation. I couldn't help shake the feeling that I was being lied to, might as well have been in starbucks. -
Review from Koz T.
Calgary, AB
9/11/2011 1 Check-in Here
Looking at the previous reviews, I was a little surprised at this experience. Lets get the good stuff on the table. The brew is fantastic and the beans are great. The seating area is pretty spacious and you can take a table outside an enjoy the sun as well. All good things.
I was taken aback at how sullen the crowd was here. It seemed like a pretty hipster crowd but of the other 15 people or so in the cafe when we went, not a single person was smiling. Come to think of it, neither were the staff! To take it a step further, they don't have skim milk here. What kind of cafe doesn't offer the choice of skim milk!
To sum up, if you've recently lost all your money in the stock market, are a mime, or are the kind of man that wears mascara, then this is the place for you. If you're a family bloke or the kind of person that just likes a friendly place to get a cup of jo and have a conversation, there are so many other good places in this area. -
Review from Arc P.
In this kawa episode product trumps service. The coffee here is divine. They make a mean cafe mocha. From the balanced blend of coffee/chocolate taste to the detailing on top of the drink, they are flawless. It's even the perfect temperature. Not too hot not too cold. Simply gorgeous! They have the artistic side of coffee down pat. Never tried the food here and to be honest I wouldn't want to. It doesn't look special and I rarely come to coffee shops to eat.
I dig the atmosphere here as well, it's cool casual where students, friends and professional meet to work on projects, talk business or just hang out. The service, on the other hand, is an atrocious. I have never been to a coffee shop where one has to wait 10 mins to be acknowledged when the staff is only 6 feet away. Indeed it can be hectic making so many other orders simultaneously, but a simple "be with you in a sec" would suffice. You could teach a monkey to do that! (Joke, please don't spit in my coffee if you recognize my face or hair from yelp)
Oh well! Perhaps I should be more assertive next time. I'm willing to fight for my fix of kawa. Baristas beware! (Joke, please see above request) -
Review from Sarah Louise F.
Calgary, AB
8/18/2011
I visited Kawa with a pal a couple weeks ago as I live closeby. The saw that they had loose leaf tea, and got real excited, because as I mentioned in an earlier review, I hate terrible tea at good coffee places.
It was an earl grey kinda day, so I ordered a cup of "loose-leaf, creamed earl grey with some cold soy milk." I went outside to hold a table, and my friend brought our order over. I had been given a cup of bagged, supermarket grade earl grey, with steamed soy on top. While I appreciated the effort of the steamed milk, neither component was what I ordered. My friend knows nothing about tea (she knows this), and said it looked really good and she' d drink it if I didn't. While I wanted to just bring the drink back, I just let her drink it.
I went back up to the counter, and tried again, this time ordering a different loose leaf tea, figuring they may have been out of the first one. All the tea looks like a universal price on the board, but this time, the barista warned me, "this one is a little pricier than the normal tea because it's loose," as he put a teaspoon of the tea into one of those make-your-own-teabags. I said fine, as I wasn't down for drinking Higgins and Burke. However, when he rang it up, I was pretty dismayed. It came to over $6. I have worked in and managed several teashops here, visited several shops in San Francisco, and attended the 2010 World Tea Convention, serving and drinking some of the best harvests you can acquire, ANYWHERE. Never, ever, have I served up or paid $6 for a 12 oz cup of mediocre tea. I hear incredible things about Kawa's coffee. Maybe that's what they should stick to. Or rather, what I should stick to next time I visit.
I reeally want to like this place, as it's about 5 blocks away from my apartment, but this isn't the first time I've gotten a less than favourable impression. I might try once more, when I am in an espresso sipping mood, but for now Kawa, three stars. I'm sorry. :( -
Review from Emma G.
7/1/2011
Chalk this one up to the power of Yelp - I saw all of your reviews and thought, I have to go to Kawa! And I'm happy that I did.
It's a pretty cute shop with lots of comfy looking seats - it definitely seems like a good spot to buckle down with a book or some work.
I ordered an iced caramel macchiatto, and yum! It was very sweet and tasted like it was made with with really high quality stuff. The staff there seemed pretty nice, though I was a bit spaced out so I didn't chat too much.
We grabbed a table outside on the patio, and I have to say it was one of the nicer coffee shop patios I've been to! The chairs cushioned all fancy-like. It was a beautiful day to sit and relax in the sun, people watching.
I didn't get a chance to look at their food or alcohol offerings, but after enjoying the tasty drink and nice patio I'd like to go back again.Listed in: Hot Bevvies
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Review from Wendy P.
Are you Kawa, like "KA-WAH"? Or are you Kawa, like "KA-VAH"? I keep hearing both and I'm not sure which one to use. Do you know?
My first introduction to Kawa's was sometime last year. And I've been back intermittently since. Not because there's anything horrible about Kawa's, but because EVERYBODY seems to know about it. Whenever I try and go in off hours (for me... peak for them), it's always packed. Good for Kawa's, bad for me trying to find a place to sit.
The first thing I love about Kawa's is it keeps hours that aren't quite as ridiculous as the coffee shops downtown that are closed by 5, not helpful for us après work coffee goers.
Next, they have this thing called clover coffee. Which makes it pretty gosh darned terrific tasting. Check out the flavours up front and ask them how it's made. It's pretty special.
They say good things come in threes, which means there's one more big thing I like about Kawa's. What is that you might ask? Parking. Yes, there are a few spots available for customers at no added cost in the back if you can catch one.
Helpful hours, killer coffee and practical parking? Sounds like a perfect brew to me. -
Review from Kali R.
Calgary, AB
12/27/2010 4 Check-ins Here
Kawa has it all - amazing products and outstanding service. As I've gotten to know Les, the owner, I am continually impressed with his kind heart and savvy business sense. I will continue to bring friends and family here for all kinds of get togethers - I even had my small wedding reception there in August. Les and his staff treated us like gold and made everything happen perfectly. I couldn't have asked for a better experience and I'm so glad I chose to support Kawa.
I love that Kawa is a true small business with soul. The staff wear what they want, the business supports local artists and building a sense of community comes naturally. You can get away from the blurr of chain coffee shops with funky music and a truly mixed crowd at Kawa. It's so refreshing! There are frequent jam sessions and special events there if you're ever looking for something to do.
If you love wine and beer, this place is absolute heaven. The lattes are always amazing, complete with latte art! My favourite is the Cafe Niko. Also, It's open late (until 11pm), which is so hard to find these days. Its modern, sleek decor makes it a great place for hanging out or having business meetings.
What can I say....I'm a fan for life! -
Review from Kaeleigh E.
Calgary, AB
7/2/2011
I was really excited to try Kawa as yelp is completely in love with it so I was kind of disappointed when I finally made my way here.
The product seems good. I had an iced latte. Again, I am a total coffee nut and nothing beats a good iced latte on a warm sunny day. It was really tasty but it annoyed me that the women didn't fill the cup all the way. It wasn't a cheap latte just fill up the cup!!! Also I was served by 2 staff members and neither of them were friendly AT ALL. It was a huge turn off. I felt like I wasn't cool enough to be there or something.
My favourite coffee shop in Calgary is 3 blocks away, so I don't really have a reason to come here. The attitude thing just really puts me off so I doubt I will ever experience there food which I hear is fantastic. -
Review from Reginald T.
Calgary, AB
2/24/2011 4 Check-ins Here
It's weird, but it's so hard to find a coffee shop that's open late downtown.
Kawa, while not directly in the core, is located a few blocks away on the west side and open very late.
I've been here a few times now for different reasons, and while I'm not a coffee connoisseur by any stretch of the imagination, they serve a great hot chocolate and the decor and environment is very cozy. My only complaint is that it's too small; it needs more space as it always seems packed these days.
But the owner is really nice and that attitude gets passed down to the staff, as the service is really good. Slows down a bit when it's really packed, but that comes with the territory. All of their sodas (which are Coca-Cola products) are glass bottled rather than in plastic or cans, which I find refreshing and traditional; the only other place I know of in Calgary that serves glass bottled Coke products is Wicked Wedge Pizza in Chinook Centre.
All-in-all, I have to say I'm a fan, and when I'm in the area looking for a quiet place to work on the laptop, Kawa is one of my first choices. -
Review from Michael T.
Calgary, AB
Hands down the best coffee in Calgary. Period.
Great to spend some time at too, I too am writing this review while enjoying a tasty latte.
I always here people ordering their drinks 'skinny'. First of all this isn't starbucks - it's called non-fat. Second of all you just killed the good taste of your drink so just get espresso ;)
Seriously you need to come here if you like great coffee and people with a passion for it.Listed in: Best Coffee in Calgary
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Review from Gabe A.
3/21/2011 1 Check-in Here
With great publicity comes cramped spaces. Kawa is an espresso bar located a few blocks away from the bustling nightlife of 11th Ave, and was part of the Support Local Coffee movement from a few months ago. I've been here once since then, in the middle of the week, and the place was jammed. Seating is forever an issue (ubiquitous laptops lapping up the free Wi-Fi), but when you find it, it is a pleasant place to hang out, and it is one of the rare downtown coffee shops open late.
My wife and I first came here on a winter evening last year to meet our future wedding photographer Maria Lang, and have enjoyed visiting when we are in the area and have a little time to kill between her Steeling Home and my vinyl stores; she gets a hot chocolate (and maintains its one of the best in the city), while I vacillate between the cappuccino and the latte, both very fine. They are also licensed and have a variety of beers from around the world, and their pastries are excellent. A highly recommended place! -
Review from Crystal H.
Vancouver, BC
8/15/2010 2 Check-ins Here
Should I share that they are brewing 49th Parallel (from Vancouver) AND that they have Montreal style bagels? Or that the space is perfect for a work camp out, complete with quick WiFi.
Of course, I should tell all, but I think the moment that turned me into a Kawa fan was when I asked what kind of bagels they had and the barista gave me this run down: "We have poppy seed, sesame seed... and we had to buy some whole grain ones from Safeway this morning." I appreciate the honesty and ate my poppy seed bagel up lightening fast. It was incredible - dense, but fluffy, crispy but doughy with just the right amount of melting cream cheese. This leads me to believe that the rest of the snacking menu is something I need to sample.
If you're looking to hunker down for a while, try to snag one of the last tables past the bathrooms. You'll be as enthused as I was with the abundance of plugs! -
Review from Katie C.
Calgary, AB
9/1/2010 ROTD 5/9/2011
My new obsession is Kawa, but after visit uno I have yet to make it back! This is not due to the location, which is stellar at just off of 17th Avenue, with a surprise parking lot in the back. What was going to be a rush job with takeout turned into a nice little stay once we figured that one out.
The decor is fabulous, very modern and slick. I'd love to come back at night, because it has a great vibe with nice upholstered chairs and big high ceilings, and especially a great looking beer and wine selection!
All of the drinks were tasty and expertly made (and to-go, even though we stayed in, oops). It felt very European! Cappucinos were the right size and a small was actually SMALL, which with coffee is a good thing!
The white mocha was the best, and was absolutely delicious. I got the Cafe Nico? which had an orange flavour that was a little bitter and didn't really suit my palate, but I was being adventurous. I still slurped it down quickly on the comfy couch.
Anyways, I can't wait for the right occasion to come back and check out the tasty looking food and get another great espresso. -
Review from Amanda L.
Calgary, AB
8/12/2010
After a very long time of thinking "I should try Kawa some time" I finally stopped in the other night after a steak dinner down the street.
I had a decaf trad capp (caffeine and I don't get along after 3pm if I have a hope in sleeping) and it certainly delivered based on the hype. I like that they serve 49th parallel.
I noticed that they have a great selection of beer (including dieu du ciel which I quite like) and a selection of wine. I liked that they have bottles of the beer out on the counter so that you can read the labels. I will definitely be back to sip some other beverages - but how will I choose?
I'll be the one at the table with 4 beverages in front of me but no signs of other people! -
Review from Erin D.
1/29/2011
Visited today. I have to say I don't really get the rave reviews. It was just.....well.....meh.
I payed almost $8 for a bowl of soup that was luke warm and not that great.
Also, the design of the place really put me off. It felt bland, cold and uninviting and the seating was really uncomfortable.
The coffee was good, and I would definitely stop in again for a to go cup. I wouldn't meet someone there for coffee though.... give me Beano or Phil & Sebastian's any day! -
Review from Crystal W.
Calgary, AB
10/21/2011
I have mixed feelings about Kawa. Today was about my fourth visit and my sentiment hasn't changed.
What I do appreciate is that they actually make a good mocha. It's just not that hot, but it's yummy. I love that it's bright and great for people watching. I've not actually tried the treats or food, but the desert cabinet is definitely enticing. I'm not a fan of how loud it seems with conversation and music. I'd be totally good with it during the evening, but during the day it's not calming at all and not great for meetings. The seating also seems crowded and some of the seats themselves have seen better days. The fact that they supply cushions tells you that either a lot of bony butt people go here or they need better chairs. I do wish they had more assigned parking stalls, as I was lucky enough to get a free space today, but sometimes you're stuck paying for parking too. Maybe you have spare time to drive around the neighborhood to find other free space, but I don't always have time for that.
At the end of the day, I'd prefer a mocha to go, just as Erin G. would prefer a to go cup.
I'm excited that this is my 200th review!
Yelp, you make writing fun! It's all I wanna do...Listed in: Best Mochas in town
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Review from Sarah M.
Calgary, AB
8/22/2011
I agree with the other reviews - this place is awesome. My first time there was after yoga at 7 am - ordered an Americano, and it was the best I've ever had. Just went again last Thursday at night, and there was an African band that was pretty great, even though it was a little loud for chatting. My GF had a glass of wine, and I had an iced latte - also amazing. I'm glad this place is so close to my house, I'll probably go on a regular basis.
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Review from Joel O.
Calgary, AB
1/4/2011 2 Check-ins Here
Kawa (Ka 'va) has quite the extensive menu. They obviously specialize in espressos/coffee, but don't let your stomach miss out on their breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert menus. And don't just come here to taste their two excellent beans (Intelligentsia and 49th Parallel)...check out their long list of beers (including a couple of gluten-free and non-alcoholic types), as well as wines.
The service here is excellent, they know their product and are very friendly.
Last but not least, they hold an open stage on Tuesday evenings for those who are brave enough to share their talents - 8pm with Alex Boiselle and friends.
Kawa Espresso Bar: http://kawacalgary.ca/
Intelligentsia Coffee: http://www.intelligent...
49th Parallel Coffee: http://www.49thparalle... -
Review from Philippe G.
Calgary, AB
11/25/2010 1 Check-in Here
Kawa has location. I do not find the coffee to be anything over the top special.
The barrista's are diligent and swift, but I have to say that the "blurred" lounge/Coffee joint makes me feel slightly confused, but I do enjoy my time at Kawa, from a good 15 minute meeting or a quick Java hit in the afternoon. -
Review from dinah g.
Calgary, AB
12/18/2009 4 photos
I am actually presently writing this review in Kawa. I am ecstatic, there is free parking behind and there is Wi-Fi and available outlet connections.
This establishment seems so be run by a Polish family, they are incredibly friendly and it has attracted many Polish clientele as I am surrounded by three tables of Polish conversation.
Kawa has high ceilings measuring at least 8 metres high, luxurious dark chocolate brown chairs and upholstered seating. The warmth of the fireplace passes over my keyboard and I am impressed by the many abstract canvases gracing the walls.
My coffee is delicious, served in an ebony large cup at only $2.40, Kawa also serves it up with red and white wine and a beer list 40 selections long. There seems to be an eclectic food menu here as well, Bruschetta, Bison, Bean and Mexican chilli dip, Tiger Shrimp, Stuffed Chicken Breast and Organic Grass Fed Elk Meat Balls. Each meal is accompanied with alcohol pairings which make for a unique and ingenious menu!
Silky smooth jazz plays in the background, but the twinkling of the 88s doesn't distract people from the intensity of their conversations.
I love it here, this is a perfect place for me to relax, enjoy a good coffee, eat something exotic and yelp all the day through. 5 stars. If I had vodka I would toast you Kawa. -
Review from Adrianna R.
Calgary, AB
3/23/2011 ROTD 1/10/2012
Yum Yum Yum.....the coffee and cakes, I just love to come down, grab a delicious coffee and a sweet treat. Just chit chat with my girlfriends, in a chill atmosphere, ahhh so nice, everyone that I see here is always so relaxed..well I guess except during the morning coffee rush, but the moment you have your coffee in hand, and the aroma hits your senses, all is calm in the sea of 'downtown slaves" - me being one of them, I find a huge smile on my face everytime I walk out of kawa with my cup of joe, early day or late night.
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Review from Spencer B.
Calgary, AB
7/13/2010
Kawa is close enough to give Beano a run for it's money.
I love the espresso here. Love it. It's great for a buzz while you walk down to the train station.
The decor is cool with lots of right angles, metal and wood.
On top of the coffee, there's also some of the best beer selection in the entire city. Rare microbrews you won't find anywhere else at reasonable prices.
In additon to stocking cool beers, there's also a neat selection of vodka.
Coffee shops are social hubs and I like Kawa's coffee and beer selection.
*EDIT: After being contacted by Les J. and assuring me that the staff member I spoke with had the wrong idea regarding the vodka , meaning I can try it!, as well as the actions of the clientele, friends or not, I've decided to change my inital review. Thank you Les for being so pro-active and showing you care about your business.
I'll be down shortly to have an espresso and a vodka or two sometime this week.Comment from Les J. of Kawa Espresso Bar 7/16/2010
All vodkas are for sale and can be sampled upon request by… More » -
Review from Mitch S.
Toronto, ON
7/6/2009
I was thoroughly impressed by this cafe. Not only were their cappuccinos perfect, they also are the only place in Calgary offering Clover brewed coffee.
For those of you not familiar with Clover, it's a completely new system that does a great job emphasizes the subtleties in different coffees. Go here and try this out for yourselves!
Additionally, they also have a great selection of bottled beer. I was surprised to see they had Dieu du Ciel here (a fantastic Montreal Micro-brewery). -
Review from Zain K.
6/3/2010
Nice place. Part urban chic and part urban casual (I'm thankful for the latter part, without which Kawa might feel a little pretentious), Kawa is a very comfortable place to hang out for an hour or two with a book, laptop (good free wifi), or a friend.
In addition to excellent espresso (Clover) drinks, Kawa has a full liquor license, and carries an impressive array of bottled beer.
I'd give it a 5th star if it offered more in the way of food. I wanted to eat here, but didn't find the menu appealing (and noticed that none of the other patrons were eating while I was here).
A nice bonus is that they provide free customer parking, though spots are quite limited. -
Review from Kate M.
Calgary, AB
I adore Kawa. Ka-Vah, Polish for coffee.
I'm here more than any other shop in the city (at least 4 times a week...)
Like Dinah G. - I am also writing my review whilst sitting at Kawa. I could go on for days about how wonderful it is here. Perhaps it'll be better for everyone if I write a list!
1) They serve 49th Parallel Coffee - http://www.49thparalle...
2) They are fully licensed, with a lovely array of bottled micro-brews & vino
3) The staff are competent, quick, and oh so friendly
4) Location, Location, Location
5) Free Wireless!!
6) 2 hr parking on 14th ave, and a few reserved spots on 8th street
7) Live Music most nights, or cool tunes ring through the speakers
8) Special Culinary Events (usually vegetarian, or gluten-free, or equally delicious & yummy) These ALWAYS sell out in advance
9) Fresh Euro Pastries Every Day... Save Room!
10) Nice washrooms. I can't speak for the gents, but the ladies room is always stocked, the lighting is good, and it smells lush
11) Last one - they are open late! 11:00PM most nights.
Enjoy!
KLMListed in: Calgary's Best Coffee
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Review from Sapna G.
Calgary, AB
11/18/2009
Kawa Espresso Bar is AMAAAAZING!
I was walking by a couple of nights ago and couldn't help but make a pit-stop inside. The atmosphere, the lighting and the ambiance of the place is so incredibly unique. It truly sets it apart from any other coffee shop in the city.
And speaking of setting it apart from other coffee shops, let's talk about the fact that this exceptional espresso bar not ONLY serves all your favourite caffeinated bevvies, but it also serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, beer and wine. UH HUH. Plus let's not fail to mention the fact that it is open Mon-Saturday until 11pm, and Sundays until 9pm, which means it is pretty much the only coffee shop in downtown Calgary that is open so late! Oh, and did I mention they offer free wifi? Or how about the fact that their coffee and lattes cost less than your favourite cup of java at a local Starbucks? And let's not forget to mention all the events and tastings that this place hosts. Don't worry, if you haven't been around for any of those, then you can always stop in to take a little taste home with you by purchasing one of their delicious chocolate gift baskets.
Kawa Espresso Bar completely blew me out of the water. With their selection, service and space, this place has definitely cruised to the top of my 'Favourite hang out spots in Calgary' list. -
Review from Ernest B.
Calgary, AB
8/27/2010
Great little place. Since I don't really drink coffee, mocha frappe is my indulgence of choice and it was delicious. Just spent the afternoon chatting with a colleague on the patio.
That said, it looks like a great place to meet up for business or pleasure. I didn't test it, but I believe they also have wireless access there. -
Review from Peter A.
Ottawa, ON
Updated - 1/11/2011 7 Check-ins Here
This is now my go-to place for a casual first date after 5pm. Not that I've actually had a casual first date here, but I just discovered the amazing beer list while visiting with a buddy of mine.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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1/9/2011
I don't know, friends. I just don't know about old Kawa. Let me say just straight up this is one of… Read more »
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Review from Cullen J.
5/5/2009
Good coffee - I did not think my cappuccino was quite as good as Bumpy's but they were definitely very good. Very modern interior. Some tasty pastries. Sells 49th Parallel beans.
One note - the address is 1333 8th ST sw. The address in yelp might be wrong and showing it as 101 8th st sw on the map. Make sure you check you have the right location.
