Maelstrom: The friendly & versatile café-bar in St-Roch

A cozy spot in Saint-Roch, Maelstrøm serves as a restaurant, café, and bar. The place perfectly balances these roles; people come here for a coffee or a light bite, just as much as to enjoy a drink at the bar in the evening.

Before becoming the well-known venue it is today, Maelstrøm started as a product: a bottled cold brew coffee concentrate. This versatile product, ideal for enhancing hot drinks, cocktails, and recipes, laid the foundation for the place’s identity. Building on this success, the owners decided to create a space focused on showcasing their product—and much more.

Maelstrøm’s location seats about fifty people, including ten at the bar, inviting guests to enjoy the tastefully arranged décor. The room preserves the building’s original look, featuring beautiful hardwood floors and red brick walls. The seating and tables form an eclectic yet harmonious whole; the atmosphere is unpretentious and warmly inviting. In summer, the vintage windows open wide, flooding the space with natural light. The venue adapts well to the different needs of the day.

In the kitchen, chef Sara Elizabeth Arab crafts menus inspired by the seasons and local farm-fresh produce. The establishment offers brunch from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., as well as a dinner menu starting at 5 p.m. The dishes are simple and well executed, thoughtfully designed to suit each time of day. They’re perfect for anyone looking for something fresh and light.

The ambiance is very relaxed: people come to take their time, settle in at one of the tables to work, or simply enjoy the moment. It’s entirely possible to spend the whole day at Maelstrøm, from breakfast through dinner. In the evening, guests share a selection of dishes and sides. The bar also opens around 5 p.m., featuring a cocktail menu that balances well-executed classics with original creations.

However, it’s important to note that Maelstrøm does not accept reservations; it’s therefore best suited for spontaneous mornings or evenings. Maelstrøm’s unpretentious vibe makes it a peaceful place to savor a moment of calm. The venue’s versatility suits its varied offerings perfectly. A great spot to discover at any time of day!

Written by Florence
Photography by Maelstrom

Last update: July 15, 2025

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