Cafe Aunja — Restaurant in Montreal

Nestled in the heart of Montreal lies a hidden gem, Cafe Aunja, a cozy basement-level sanctuary that transports patrons to the bustling streets of Persia with its aromatic teas, rich coffees, delectable sweets, captivating art, and soulful live music.

As you descend the stairs into this enchanting space, you are greeted by the warm scent of Persian spices mingling with the aroma of freshly brewed teas and coffees. The ambiance is inviting, with dim lighting casting a soft glow on the intricate Persian rugs adorning the floor, and the walls adorned with captivating art pieces that tell stories of distant lands and ancient traditions.

Cafe Aunja offers an impressive selection of Persian teas and coffees, each brewed to perfection and served with care. From fragrant saffron-infused chai to robust Turkish coffee, there is something to tantalize every palate. Pair your beverage of choice with one of their indulgent sweets, such as delicate baklava or rosewater-infused pastries, for a truly indulgent experience.

But it's not just the food and drink that make Cafe Aunja a standout destination. The live music performances, featuring talented local musicians playing traditional Persian instruments, add a soulful ambiance to the space, transporting guests to a world of melody and rhythm. Whether you come for a quiet afternoon tea or a lively evening of music and conversation, Cafe Aunja offers an unforgettable experience that celebrates the rich culture and hospitality of Persia.

The service at Cafe Aunja is attentive and friendly, with knowledgeable staff eager to guide you through the menu and make recommendations based on your preferences. Whether you're a seasoned tea connoisseur or a coffee aficionado, you'll find something to delight your senses at this charming Montreal establishment. So, step into Cafe Aunja and let yourself be transported on a sensory journey to the...

My first time in Montreal didn’t go exactly as planned—my girlfriend (she’s from Toronto) and I (from Vermont) were hoping to spend most of our time exploring Old Montreal, but the weather had other ideas. So we pivoted, looking for a cozy café where we could stay warm, write, and enjoy good food, and that’s how we found Café Aunja.

From the moment we walked in, it felt like something special. Our visit ended up being so memorable and romantic that we now think of it as “our” place.

The seating is abundant, and while the lighting leans dim, it’s adjustable, which makes it ideal whether you’re writing, chatting, or just people-watching with a cup in hand. The staff are warm and extremely welcoming, and as someone who’s been a barista for 15 years, I can honestly say the drinks and food were made with real care. You can taste the pride in every detail—from presentation to flavor.

Café Aunja has Iranian roots, and it was my first time trying items like the Kereshmeh and Nargoun smoothies, both of which were bright, fruity, and refreshing. I also had a slice of their blueberry cake, which looked beautiful and tasted even better. On the more traditional side, I tried their moka latte, while my girlfriend went for their floral and herb-packed teas, which were as pretty as they were flavorful.

We ended up coming back two more times during our trip to write and relax, and I actually started my next novel there. She left equally inspired. Even if we stay in a different part of the city next time, we’ve already agreed: we’re coming back to Café Aunja.

It’s not just a café—it’s a creative sanctuary, a cozy escape from the weather, and now, a cherished part...

I used to love this place. Recently every time I go back the service does not seem the nicest.

While I was ordering my breakfast this morning the lady at the cash asked how I’d like my eggs, and I said turned and well done in French since I could not find my words in Farsi, and she said in English that’s “over-easy” I said no that does not mean over-easy, long story short she insisted that having your eggs cooked well done is apparently called over-easy with a lot of attitude, constantly repeating herself to prove a point 3 times. Just google over-easy eggs please. That being said the breakfast arrived and we asked if we can have extra bread? Apparently you have to pay for it so they charged us 6.80$ for extra bread for 4 people. Then the bread literally arrives when we are done eating and I said we are done with our food can we just have the credit to buy a tea or something afterwards. They said no you can take your bread to go.

At this point it’s not my fault that you delivered the bread late it’s yours and it’s unfair to leave bread for 4 people on the table while their food is done. In general good food but very disappointing service and...