In all honestly, Monogram Coffee in Altadore is the most hipster cafe in Calgary. Everything seems hipster: the obscure location in southwest, the hole-in-the-wall venue, the wood decor, the incandescent lightbulbs (maybe?) and the homemade almond-cashew milk. And I am in heaven~
I like to consider myself to be a bit of a hipster: vegan, “buy local” advocate and coffee purist. Well, I mean, sans the scruffy beard, curled mustache and plaid oxfords.
Hailing as the flagship of the coffee roaster, Monogram Coffee in Altadore is a solid contender amongst the flood of cafes in Calgary. I came here on a Sunday morning, and it’s quite popular with the masses. People came in and out frequently, and I felt like I was the only one who was there for 2 hours. Whatevs~
Monogram (or at least this branch) was small. It was narrow, and even the main entrance table was quite narrow. There are about 5 smaller tables, a bench and some patio seats outside. However, I don’t despise that it’s small. I think it keeps the cafe grounded and unpretentious when it comes to the coffee experience.
I really liked the atmosphere here! While busy, I didn’t feel crowded. Or maybe that’s because I was so plugged into my laptop that I didn’t mind people around me…
I ordered the extraordinary vegan latte with homemade almond-cashew milk, and it was nothing I’ve ever tasted before. The latte had the same texture as a non-vegan latte, because the milk they used was thick and nutty, but If you want, they also sell pastries and snacks for your sweet tooth cravings.
Also, I don’t want to overlook the fact that these baristas are award-winning! Keep up the good work guys!
The music is excellent, coffee is excellent, and the atmosphere is excellent. Monogram Coffee may be a bit intimidating for the uninitiated, but if you’re a coffee/cafe aficionado, you will love this cafe!
Recommended? Yes!!
COST: Moderate. The prices at Monogram is quite similar to other cafes in Calgary. Large espresso-based drinks costs about $5. Pastries and snacks vary from $2 – $6.
TASTE: Excellent. My vegan latte with homemade almond-cashew milk was simply delicious! The nutty taste of the milk adds a different flavour to the latte, and I really like the texture of the coffee + milk. One of the best in Calgary!
ACCESSIBILITY: Difficult. The best and most efficient way to get to this cafe is to drive. There are buses that service Monogram, but they’re infrequent and can be unreliable (as with most public transportation in Calgary). If you live in the neighbourhood, even better to walk or bike!
ATMOSPHERE: Very nice. I really love the feel of Monogram Coffee, especially this location in Altadore. The wooden decor is really nice, and gives off a cozy atmosphere. Perfect for both me-time and social meets. Plus, Wifi is available! 😀
SERVICE: 9/10. Everyone was extremely friendly and welcoming, and very accommodating! The baristas even serve your drink to you, if you’re staying in the cafe. So nice~
Monogram Coffee (Altadore)
Address: 4814 16th Street SW, Calgary AB
Phone: (587) 893 – 0444
Hours:
- Monday: 6:30AM – 9PM
- Tuesday: 6:30AM – 9PM
- Wednesday: 6:30AM – 9PM
- Thursday: 6:30AM – 9PM
- Friday: 6:30AM – 9PM
- Saturday: 7:30AM – 9PM
- Sunday: 7:30AM – 6PM
Website: monogramcoffee.com
This is not a sponsored post.