City Cafe Bakery - West Ave. — Restaurant in Kitchener

This is one of those hidden gems you only find by living in the city and listening to the locals. No flashy social media or photoshopped pictures; just the real thing. It’s more than a bakery. It’s history, culture, and life all packed into one cozy spot.

The moment you walk in, it feels like stepping back into the 90s. You can smell the charcoal before you even get out of your car. Every corner and every item on the wall tells a story. It honestly feels like a live museum, with the baking happening right in front of you. Even the staff uniforms match the old-school vibe.

Ordering can be a bit confusing the first time: grab a tray, pick what you want, and line up to pay. Cash is preferred, but they also accept e-transfers.

Definitely try the bagels and butter tarts; they’re amazing. But the real standout is the sandwiches made in the charcoal oven. We had the turkey sandwich, and it was next level. Smoky, fresh, full of flavor, and only $11 for a generous portion, served with coleslaw and pickled cucumbers. Total steal.

Everything on the menu is fairly priced with solid portions. The staff are incredible. The lady who worked there even came to our table to chat and share some of the bakery’s backstory. We also met the owner, a truly kind and lovely man. They both offered us a treat on the house, but we said we’d save it for next time.

All in all, a one-of-a-kind experience. You can’t buy this kind of vibe; it’s built over time with love. I’ll definitely be coming back whenever I’m in the area and will keep recommending it to everyone. Please support this beautiful...

City Cafe is a delightful vintage gem that exudes an undeniable charm. Stepping inside feels like a journey back in time, with an atmosphere that's both nostalgic and inviting. The highlight of the experience undoubtedly lies in their must-try croissants and bagels, baked to perfection each day. The commitment to freshness is evident in every bite, making it a haven for pastry enthusiasts.

One unique aspect is their cash-only policy, which harks back to a simpler time when transactions were straightforward. The establishment also operates on an honor system for payments, reflecting a deep level of trust they place in their customers. This rare approach adds to the cafe's character and further enhances the feeling of being part of a tight-knit community.

The people behind City Cafe are as warm as the atmosphere they've created. Their friendliness and genuine hospitality make every visit a memorable experience. It's not just a cafe; it's a place where conversations flow freely, and you're likely to strike up a chat with both the staff and fellow patrons.

City Cafe's status as an old gem in the city is well-deserved. In an age of rapid change, it stands as a reminder of the timeless appeal of freshly baked treats, sincere interactions, and a sense of community. Whether you're a regular or a first-time visitor, City Cafe wraps you in its embrace and offers a unique and heartwarming journey through flavors...

Have never had an issue here up till today. It is so very unfortunate how I had been pre-judged and mistreated at this place this morning.

Maybe it was how I was all sweaty And dirty from my recent cross city bike ride, wearing my excersize clothes.

However I was made to feel very uncomfortable and unwelcome. Iwas trying to pay via interac transfer. The lady at the counter after watching me like a hawk had decided I didn't know how to send the transfer or maybe i didn't have money in my bank. Had then pushed me to pay via cash.

After successful completion of the transaction and proof or funds being sent. The manager had then ignored the senders bank completion report and continue to belittle me as if I had not paid and was trying to lie about it to receive a free meal

After leaving and biking a few meters and eating one donut, i have lost my appetite and will be returning my pastries with the suggestion to allow someone less fortunate to come take it as a pay it forward type transaction.

I had once known this cafe to be all inclusive and non judgemental, but after today's interaction i believe I will never step foot in this cafe again. I recommend to all friends and family to not dine at this...