From photos online, Phil & Sebastian Coffee Roasters in Marda Loop looks like a fancy place, and it did not disappoint! The cafe is exquisite, with awesome baristas and atmosphere.
I’ll say it: I’ve never been to any Phil & Seb before. I know, I know…such blasphemy! For those who don’t know, Phil & Sebastian is a famed coffee roaster based in Calgary which has a long and interesting story (read it on their website).
I didn’t know what to expect visiting the cafe, but my first impression was great. This Phil & Seb location was huge! I loved the high ceilings and lightbulb chandelier!
When I arrived at Phil & Seb, the cafe was surprisingly not busy. Granted, it was 9AM on a Sunday morning, when most people are sleeping or at church. I took a seat at my favourite spot in cafes: by the window. Call me a creep, but I love to people-watch and take in the views from inside the cafe.
As the sun crept over the sidewalk, more and more people stopped by to grab some coffee, and the cafe became busier. However, I didn’t feel like the cafe became crowded or louder. Perhaps the big space dampened the sounds, but I was comfortable working with the ambient noise.
After ordering an Americano and a breakfast sandwich, the barista pleasantly served me my food where I sat. Kudos for great service!
Phil & Sebastian Coffee Roasters in Marda Loop is an awesome cafe, but you *most likely* won’t find myself here often just because it’s so far from where I live (in the NE). The cafe has a great atmosphere, big space and friendly staff!
Recommended? Absolutely!
COST: Moderate. Like with most hipster cafes, prices at Phil & Seb are pretty moderate. Expect to pay ~$5 for espresso-based drinks, and ~$5 – $8 for sandwiches.
TASTE: Good. The vegetarian breakfast sandwich was quite tasty and savoury, but unfortunately wasn’t vegan (it contained egg and cheese). My Americano was darkly flavourful, and was a great accompaniment to the sandwich.
ACCESSIBILITY: Difficult. The cafe is located in SW, so it’s quite far from downtown. While there are buses that service the area, I think the best way to get here is by driving. Parking is limited to curbside, so be warned drivers.
ATMOSPHERE: Very nice. Despite its popularity, I didn’t feel like the cafe was overcrowded. I actually liked the busyness for this size of a cafe; it makes the cafe more lively in a sort. Or maybe it’s only because it was Sunday when I visited. Phil & Seb is a great place to meet with friends over coffee when it’s not busy.
SERVICE: 9/10. The baristas were very friendly, and even served me my coffee + sandwich while I sat by the window!
Phil & Sebastian Coffee Roasters in Marda Loop
Address: 2043 33rd Ave SW, Calgary AB
Phone: (403) 686 – 1221
Hours:
- Monday: 6:30M – 9PM
- Tuesday: 6:30M – 9PM
- Wednesday: 6:30M – 9PM
- Thursday: 6:30M – 9PM
- Friday: 6:30M – 9PM
- Saturday: 7:30M – 9PM
- Sunday: 7:30M – 6PM
Website: www.philsebastian.com
This is not a sponsored post.