The Best Crema di Caffè in Montreal

Caffe di Crema

A true star of Italian summers, crema di caffè is quietly becoming the favourite frozen dessert of Montreal’s cafés and trattorias. Half ice, half mousse, this silky treat pairs the bitterness of a tight espresso with the sweetness of cream: the perfect balance to cap off a meal in style or to treat yourself to a well-deserved sweet break. For coffee lovers on the hunt for a comforting little indulgence, it’s a must-try you absolutely have to discover.

Crema di caffè, or coffee cream, is an espresso mousse most often served as dessert. While plenty of Italian specialty spots offer it on their menu, we’ve put together a list of the places serving the best crema di caffè in Montreal.

Not to be confused with a café crème, this Italian marvel is eaten like ice cream. How do you make it? It’s pretty simple. You brew a coffee, stir in a little powdered sugar, and let it cool in the fridge. Whip some fresh cream with an electric mixer, then fold in the cooled coffee. Pop it all in the freezer until it turns silky and smooth. You can also have fun adding a few extra flavours: some will throw in chocolate, others a few drops of maple syrup. As for us, we love the authentic Italian version!

In the summer, we often crave ice cream to cool down (check out our list of the best ice cream in Montreal or the best ice cream sandwiches, but for coffee lovers, we strongly suggest that you opt for a crema di caffè—you won’t be disappointed!

Café Club Social

Café Club Social on Saint-Viateur Street opened its doors in 1982! They serve excellent coffee and the atmosphere is typical of Montreal’s Italian establishments. On the menu: paninis, a superb dessert counter, and all the possible variations of coffee. Their crema di caffè is exquisite! Authentic and sumptuous, just the way we like it.  

180 Rue Saint Viateur Ouest
Montréal

Café Olimpico

Café Olimpico has been around since 1970. This café on Rue Saint-Viateur is known by just about everyone, but the place serves far more than coffee. Its success comes down to plenty of factors, and it ranks, without a doubt, among the best Italian cafés in Montreal. And their crema di caffè is simply perfect! Café Olimpico is, in fact, one of the first spots in Montreal to serve a crema di caffè. Enjoy it at one of their three locations: in the Mile End, in Old Montreal, or Downtown.        

124 Rue Saint Viateur Ouest
Montréal

BOSSA Prêt à manger

Just like BOSSA on Wellington Street, the address on Masson is a counter-épicerie. You’ll find a wide selection of Italian-style sandwiches, preserves, pastries and more. Although the place is known for its decadent sandwiches, Bossa is a must stop for a tasty and refreshing crema di caffè.            

3136 Rue Masson
Montréal

Mano Figa

Mano Figa is the café of Mano Cornuto, an Italian restaurant in Griffintown. Inspired by the classic Italian caffès, you don’t come here to quietly sip an espresso. The little place is buzzing with activity: you almost have to shout to hear yourself talk, but that’s part of the charm of the place. And where there is an authentic Italian café, there is an authentic and perfect crema di caffè!      

990 Rue Ottawa
Montréal

Dispensa Épicerie Italienne

Tucked away on William Street, Dispensa is a well-kept secret in the neighbourhood for lovers of Italian food and culture. Their crema di caffè is also a hidden treasure of Old Montreal. Enjoy it on the front bench on sunny days or inside in their cosy space.      

696 Rue William
Montréal

Campanelli

Campanelli café is a charming little address on Notre-Dame Street west; a classic space in Saint-Henri where you can enjoy good coffee and good cakes. And, of course, where you can savour a magnificent crema di caffè.  

4634 Rue Notre-Dame Ouest
Montréal

Café Vito

While they don’t always offer crema di caffè, Café Vito is still a great place to get it. Located in Villeray, this small café is a real gathering place in the neighbourhood that exudes comfort. The welcome is warm, and the products are tasty and authentic.

151 Rue Villeray
Montréal
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