Marcel Café-Caviste: Eat and Drink Well in Joliette

Marcel Café-Caviste is the charming downtown Joliette spot imagined by Jean-Philippe and Jessica. The name pays tribute to Marcel, Jessica’s grandfather—a funny, generous, and life-loving man who left his mark on the family with his joy for life. In a lovely twist of fate, the former business located here was called Simone—the name of Jessica’s grandmother and Marcel’s lifelong partner in everything.

Breakfasts are simple, flavorful, and well executed. Highlights include the beet-cured salmon gravlax bagel topped with herb cream cheese and pickled onions, and the breakfast sandwich served on homemade focaccia. For heartier appetites, the BBQ pork burger with egg and Swiss cheese hits the spot, while the breakfast tartine shines with its soft-boiled egg, pistachio pesto, prosciutto, and mozzarella di bufala (made from water buffalo milk in Saint-Lin–Laurentides). On the sweet side, the ricotta and strawberry waffles—or those topped with seasonal fruits—are not to be missed.

Marcel is also perfect for a quick stop: excellent coffee brewed with beans from Quebec roasters, always paired with fresh pastries. It’s the kind of neighborhood café you’ll quickly adopt as part of your daily routine.

At lunchtime, you can settle in for a relaxed meal or grab one of their delicious takeaway lunches. The sandwiches are excellent, especially the halloumi burger with grilled zucchini and tzatziki, or the caprese with tomatoes, pesto, and mozzarella di bufala.

Delicious from morning to night

Good news: on Thursdays and Fridays, Marcel opens in the evening with a tapas-style menu that showcases the team’s creativity and seasonal products. Among the dishes we loved: octopus carpaccio, duck tataki with Asian flavors, and butter chicken with naan bread (also available in a vegetarian version with falafels). For something fresh, the mozzarella di bufala from Fromagerie Fuoco with pistachio pesto and asparagus is pure delight. For lighter bites, the chipotle hummus and olive snack always hit the mark.

And since Marcel isn’t just about the food, you’ll want to raise a glass too: their selection of privately imported wines is excellent, and you’ll also find well-made classic cocktails such as the espresso martini, amermelade spritz, and old fashioned.

With its warm atmosphere, attentive service, and affordable prices, Marcel brings everything together to make you feel at home. On top of that, they also offer catering, lunch boxes, private chef service, and even space for special events.

In short, Marcel has quickly become a favorite in Lanaudière—worth a visit whether you’re in the mood to eat well or drink well. Enjoy the discovery!

Written by Jean-Philippe Tastet
Photography by Marcel Café-Caviste

Last update: August 19, 2025

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