Maison Aïdo: An African Fusion Café-Pastry Shop in Saint-Henri

In April 2025, Andrea fulfilled one of her dreams: opening Maison Aïdo, an African-inspired café and pastry shop nestled in the Saint-Henri neighborhood. It was a project she had been nurturing for a long time.

Pastry has always held a special place in her life. Until recently, she practiced her passion as an amateur baker, whipping up sweet treats for her loved ones in her spare time. By day, she worked as a financial analyst.

As her 40th birthday approached, Andrea decided to follow her heart and start over. She left her career behind and returned to France — where she had lived for 12 years — to complete a professional pastry program. Her dream came to life in the spring with the official opening of Maison Aïdo.

Walking into the café feels a bit like stepping into Andrea’s home. Her personality and heritage shine through every detail. Born in Togo and of Beninese descent, her roots are vividly expressed throughout the space. This one-of-a-kind café celebrates culinary traditions that are still too rare in Montréal.

The menu features pastries infused with Beninese flavors, crafted with refined French technique. Among the highlights: the egusi croissant and egusi pain au chocolat — two classics of French viennoiserie, reinvented with Beninese flair: a luscious almond cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds (egusi). A subtle and delicious fusion.

Other standouts include chouquettes and cashew cream croissants — cashews being a widely grown and beloved nut in Benin. These treats are perfectly balanced: rich but not heavy, sweet but never cloying. But the true star of the show? The pistachio financier — moist, delicate, and absolutely irresistible.

On the savory side, the menu draws inspiration from West African street food. One standout: the tchatchanga beef sandwich, featuring marinated, grilled beef seasoned with typical West African spices and served with a generous helping of sauce dja — a bold, tomato-based condiment reminiscent of pesto with an African twist. Another delicious option is the mackerel sandwich, made with tender, airy pain viennois, sautéed vegetables, and local spices.

Even the drinks at Maison Aïdo are one of a kind. The homemade hibiscus juice is a refreshing blend of sweet, tangy, and fruity notes. And for matcha lovers, don’t miss the white chocolate moringa latte — made with moringa, a plant native to Africa, known for its vibrant green hue and earthy, matcha-like flavor.

The décor pays tribute to Andrea’s roots: the walls are adorned with works by Beninese artists, and the space is filled with natural light — serene, minimalist, and soothing. Whether you’re there to study, work, or just take a break, the atmosphere is just right.

Maison Aïdo offers a flavorful journey between West Africa and Montréal. A discovery not to be missed!