Alforno Bakery and Cafe is not like other cafes in Calgary; I feel like it’s more than just a cafe. It’s like a cafe, a restaurant, a bakery and a bar all in one! It is such an elegant cafe in the heart of Downtown Calgary, although I’d describe it as a restaurant instead. Interestingly, Alforno is owned by Teatro Group, famous for their upscale Teatro restaurant, also in Downtown Calgary.
My friends and I came here for dinner on a Thursday evening, and we opted to sit in the patio. It wasn’t a full-house, but it was starting to become busy. The restaurant itself was clean and modern, and sitting in there kinda felt awkward because it seemed so fancy and upscale. Plus, there were people on dates there…talk about super awkward!
Once we sat down, we immediately ordered dinner. I ordered the bianca pizza ($15), and my friends ordered the margherita pizza ($12) and the sautéed calamari ($14). The calamari was delicious, and was served with toasted bruschetta bread. The pizzas, however, were somewhat disappointing because it was so regular. Afterwards, we ordered lattes and hot chocolate, and my friends had the chocolate tart from their dessert display in the front.
I would recommend eating here, but only mainly for their drinks, dessert and baked goods. I would think there is better food in actual restaurants. On the other hand, I think this is a great place for a date, or brunch/dinner with friends.
Recommended? Yes.
COST: Pricey. This is an expensive restaurant, and quite elegant. For my pizza and latte, I paid about $23 (with tip). Also, expect more if you would like to get drinks (they serve wine).
TASTE: Good. While not the best, Alforno still serves delicious food. The pizza that I got was not the best, and I would not pay $15 for that. The soy latte was a good, strong dark roast, and had the strongest flavour I’ve had so far (even with soy milk).
ACCESSIBILITY: Easy. Alforno is conveniently located in Downtown Calgary, only about 5 blocks from 7th Street station. Downtown Calgary is pretty pedestrian-friendly, so it’s easy to walk by foot. Alternatively, you can take a cab or drive, but parking is somewhat difficult and could be expensive.
ATMOSPHERE: Very nice. The restaurant was pretty and I loved the decor! It was very elegant, clean and upscale. While Alforno is popular, the tables aren’t crowding each other. There’s a reasonable distance between the tables, and it didn’t seem like the next table is invading your privacy.
SERVICE: 8/10. If you sit down for a meal, there will be a server to serve you. Service is quite nice, and we were adequately taken cared of by our server. That said, I see no reason for there be a server if it is only a cafe & bakery.
Alforno Bakery and Cafe
Address: 222 7th Street SW, Calgary AB
Phone: (403) 454 – 0308
Hours:
- Monday: 7AM – 9PM
- Tuesday: 7AM – 9PM
- Wednesday: 7AM – 9PM
- Thursday: 7AM – 9PM
- Friday: 7AM – 9PM
- Saturday: 8AM – 9PM
- Sunday: 8AM – 9PM
Website: alforno.ca
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