Fratello Coffee Roasters — Restaurant in Calgary

I have to go with a mixed review. I have had outstanding coffee from Fratello and used to buy from them exclusively -- several pounds a month via the web or their market location. They have a great selection of single origin fair trade coffee from around the world. However, I started getting overroasted coffee from them a few months ago. One pound of Godfather Espresso (which is normally amazing) was really dark brown, oily (mucked up my machine, which ticks me off) and bitter. I complained and they sent me a fresh pound, which is great, but the next four that I bought were also overroasted, oily, and bitter. These all had different roast dates. So right now Fratello and I are on a break. I hope to return to them soon. It's been a few months since I bought from them and I'm giving it a few more. There should not be nearly this many bad batches in a short time. Guys, watch the roast please. Coffee is pricey and I can't justify buying more when so many were below par. I'm reviewing, however, to note that their quality has been largely excellent and they are worth trying out. Overroasting really kills the nuances of a coffee so this is a big issue for me. I'll revise my review if...

I stopped by Fratello Coffee Roasters the other day, and honestly, I walked in feeling a little shy. I asked at the counter if they had any recommendations since I usually stick to espresso but sometimes do pour-over or drip at home. The barista immediately lit up and started chatting with me about their beans like we were old friends, which instantly made me feel at ease. She suggested their God Father Espresso Classic, their best-seller, and told me it makes up about 60% of their sales. That definitely got my attention, so I grabbed two pounds. When I checked the roast date and saw it was only roasted on July 31st—just 4 days ago—I knew I scored. Back home, I couldn’t wait to try it. The beans looked beautiful, roasted evenly and super clean. Dialing it in was almost too easy—I hit the sweet spot on the first try. The espresso came out with thick crema and such a nice depth of flavor. I tried it as straight espresso, an Americano, and even a latte—honestly, it shines in every form. I’m genuinely so happy I found this coffee. It’s not just the quality of the beans, but also how welcoming and passionate the staff were. This place gave me both great coffee and a great experience. Highly...

I've never been to the location in person, BUT I order from them regularly and send their coffee to friends and relatives who have not yet experienced a phenomenal coffee.

I got to know them through the Analog's coffee shop in Auburn Bay (Calgary) I used to frequent. I've always hated coffee. The taste of burnt cardboard was all I knew, and I was an avid tea drinker. They had me try the Godfather coffee, black, pour-overed. Man... I thought there was no way... but waayy.

(Analog and) Fratello changed my mind about coffee because theirs actually have taste profiles! You can smell and taste berries, citruses, tropical fruits, caramel, chocolate, toffee, etc! And none of it is flavoured, that's just how they expertisely roast it.

My favourites are the Fireside and the original Godfather espresso. Flavourful, not too robust, well balanced and smooth. I drink it at home with a splash of milk. I don't drink it because I need to, but because I enjoy it.

I think we got a gem right here in our midst. Highly recommended!

(I also called them once for a question about grinds and got great service. Question answered short and sweet,...