Caffé Citadella, a cafe designed in the Queen Anne style and nestled in the heart of Vancouver, offers a delightful experience for those seeking a cozy atmosphere and warm hospitality. During my recent visit to this quaint café, I was enchanted by its charming heritage setting, friendly staff, and serene vibes. Join me as I take you on a journey through my experience at Café Citadella.
Food and Drink:
Team GlueCrew came here for a weekend lunch and I had a great taste of the following:
- Cortado ($4.25)
- Pita Breakfast Sandwich with Ham ($11)
The cortado, priced at $4.25, presented a harmonious blend of frothed milk and espresso. Served in a clear cup, it allowed me to appreciate the delightful layer of foam that adorned the rich espresso underneath.
As for the pita breakfast sandwich with ham, priced reasonably at $11, it offered a satisfying start to my day. While it may not have been the most unique item on the menu, the silky scrambled eggs stole the show. However, the mayo was a touch overpowering, and I would have welcomed a hint of spice, such as paprika or pepper, to elevate the flavors. The side of chips served alongside the sandwich seemed to be of the generic variety, resembling store-bought brands. Despite this minor letdown, the overall food experience was enjoyable.
Vibe:
From the moment I stepped into Caffé Citadella, I was captivated by its unique ambiance. Housed in an old heritage home, the café exudes a nostalgic charm that transports you back in time. The interior boasts genuine hallways and staircases, allowing visitors to explore the nooks and crannies of a bygone era. The outdoor patio seating, adorned with lush greenery, provides a serene backdrop, perfect for unwinding with a cup of coffee or a good book. With seating for around 30 guests indoors and an additional 15 seats outdoors, there's ample space to find a cozy spot to enjoy your time.
Service:
The service at Caffé Citadella follows a convenient counter-service model. Upon entering, you place and pay your order before receiving your meal. The staff members, while busy, were friendly and attentive. They even brought the orders to tables without relying on numbers, ensuring a seamless dining experience. It's worth noting that the pinpad terminal lacked a tipping option, making Caffé Citadella stand out among its peers. Nevertheless, considering the slightly higher price range of their offerings, one can hope that the menu prices adequately compensate the hardworking staff.
The café's ambiance encourages patrons to detach from their screens and enjoy the moment. Caffé Citadella positions itself as a place to socialize with friends, engage in conversation, or simply immerse oneself in a good book. On sun-drenched afternoons, the patio buzzes with activity, while the indoors provide a quieter retreat. Whether you're seeking a relaxed environment or a cozy gathering spot, Caffé Citadella has you covered.
Final Thoughts:
One-liner: A Vancouver cafe in a very homey environment where the staff are kind and the vibes are more important than the actual food and drink
Highlight: The vibes
Price per person: $5-$20
Would I go back? Yes with a friend I've been dying to catch up with.