There are not a lot of small locally owned cafes in the NW, but maybe it's for a good reason if the quality of the food and experience is subpar like this location. The service was very slow despite only having a small order, and the flat white came lukewarm. We paid $14.00 for the wrap and it was sized like it was for an infant. The wrap was also dripping with liquid, because the mushrooms were not properly caramelized before it was pressed in the panini press. This caused the mushrooms to steam and release all the liquid they had and it was dripping everywhere while it was being eaten. The atmosphere of location is top notch, but this is like pearls on swine, when the food and drink quality is masked by the location. You might feel good and like the atmosphere, but the food has small portions, questionable quality, and slow service. I would not visit it again.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 2
Service: 2
Atmosphere: 5
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Parking options
Free parking lot

A very cozy cafe located in the heart of a quiet residential area. The location of this place is a huge plus, as it’s very close to Nosehill Park, making it an ideal place to stop in after a long walk. The fireplace is an excellent touch, making it even cozier in the winter. The soup and sandwich were both pretty good, and the matcha latte is definitely worth a try. I’d argue that the matcha latte is much better than the one at Starbucks (the oversized ceramic mug really elevates the experience). Service was very friendly, albeit a little slow which is understandable as it can get fairly busy. Something I would like to see changed is the pricing structure of the food though. I feel that sandwich and soup combination was a little on the expensive side, especially for the half sandwich, which was much smaller than I anticipated. Another minor issue I have: the sinks in the washroom are unusually low. As someone who stands a little over 5’, it was strange having to reach down to use the sink.

I want to give this place 4 stars because the service was good and the atmosphere was friendly and welcoming. That being said, I should have read the reviews. I tried Barb's breakfast sandwich and my total was around $17 including tip. I didn't get my sandwich until I was seated. I was disappointed with the size of the sandwich for the price I paid. It was a basic sandwich which included egg and avocado, and literally 3 chips. I'm not sure what their reason is to overprice such a sandwich. I hope they read their reviews, because for new customers, this can be very disappointing. That sandwich price is ridiculous. Maybe worth $7.95, but not $14.85. Cafe is cute though and I'm glad it's in the NW. Please reduce your prices for the sandwich or add an extra side to it, because I feel like I got robbed.
Food: 2
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

Im actually not sure why I keep going here, I guess because its the only place in Edgemont and everyone always has such good things to say about it. I ordered "famous lemonade" and a grilled panini with various things in it that were on special today. There was only 2 other people in the restaurant. The lemonade was lemon syrup, tap water and 2 ice cubes that were melting because it was room temperature. I waited 20 minutes or so for the sandwich but had to return to work. The sandwich was of course ready when I asked for a refund so not sure how long it had been back there. I will never never go back there. 3 strikes you're out!!

This was an absolute go to prior to the sale, me and my daughter would go weekly. Since the sale we’ve been four times and each time I’ve been left disappointed. Today especially. I ordered a latte which was decent and a quesadilla. The quesadilla was soggy and had zero crisp to it, when we used to order it under the original owner, it was filled with peppers onions chicken and cheese, it was also crisp so you could hold it and dip it, this one was just chicken and cheese, which you couldn’t even pick up. Which was quite disappointing. I ended up throwing it away.
Meal type
Brunch
Price per person
$20–30

I have been meeting fellow writers weekly at this cafe for several years now and have enjoyed wonderful coffee, food and service. The atmosphere is warm and friendly, making us always feel welcome and never rushed no matter how busy. Be warned this is one popular place so there may be times that you have to share the sofa with a friendly neighbor or might not get a seat at all if you show upon on a particularly busy lunch hour. But it is busy for a reason - it is the epitome of a neighborhood cafe. I'm just sorry that I have to drive so far to hang out here now that I've moved out of the NW.

Waited what seemed like forever in line. Ordered an avocado sandwich on GF bread. One half of the bread was so hard I couldn't even bite into it. When we informed the girl, she said I could have a free dessert square. As I'm celiac I could not eat anything like that. Her response? "Well, that's just how it goes", and she walked away. So then we told the manager, and she said she'd tell her manager. So we paid full price for a sandwich that was 50% edible. Won't go back.
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$20–30

I really love Friends. It's a unique cafe that adds character to Edgemont. Really nice menu with great soups and sandwiches. I gave 4 stars only because the espresso based drinks could be better quality and because I wish the hours of the cafe were longer. It was really disappointed to learn that they cut back their hours this summer. While I recognize that the majority of customers come in the morning and around lunch, there are younger working people in the area who would like to enjoy Friends in the evening.

My boyfriend and I went here for the first time this summer. We loved everything we got, especially the toffee cake (which was recommended by a friendly, regular patron sat across from us). Loved the cake so much that I had to order a full cake for a birthday celebration. I lost track of time and got stuck in traffic on the way to pick it up. They were so kind to wait for me past opening hours. I am so so so grateful!!!! Thank you so much ❤️ Service is just as great as the food. I highly recommend this place!

The cafe is small and was packed with people. The Cappacino was tasty and beautifully made. There was no bitterness and almost a sweetness to it. Possibly a little too sweet. The panini had a good flavour and was nicely crisped. Their menu is varied with options for everyone. The wait time for the food and coffee was about 5 minutes.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Brunch
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 4
Service: 4
Atmosphere: 5

Came back today after hearing that they had found a better bread supplier than my first time here, and they really nailed it! I had the Breakfast Bob sandwich, and the bread was crispy yet also soft and oh so pleasant. The flavours of the sandwich also mixed together really well and I regretted not ordering the full sandwich since I just wanted to continue enjoying it!
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Breakfast
Price per person
$10–20

It's called "Friends" but it really feels like you're stepping into a cozy, family home that can't wait to offer you their fresh baked goods and a tea/coffee. Like grandma's home. I've been coming here for years every time I'm in the area, and I'm glad that the feeling I had when I first came here is still there today. The best Chai latte and tasty, original sandwiches with comfort couches and bright seating!

This was my first visit as I am rarely in the North Parts of Calagry. The food was amazing. It tasted fresh and delicious. Each employee working today was kind and went above and beyond to make people feel welcome. %100 recommend, even the other customers were friendly a very welcoming environment (very homie small town vibes in a city environment)
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

Went for the first time last week. Great coffee and selection of baked goods. I had my order to go this time but would definitely return with a friend. Minor mishap with the baked good ordered but owners were quick to address. Look forward to trying some of the other options they've got. These types of cafes are hard to come by in this area!
Food: 4
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

I enjoyed visiting this cafe. The coffee was good. Nice atmosphere. I would’ve given a higher rating except I tripped on the raised flooring and almost spilled my coffee. Also, an older man fell down after stumbling on the same floor. This is a serious safety issue and I hope the owners fix it asap. Otherwise a good experience
Food: 4
Service: 4
Atmosphere: 2

Went here for the first time yesterday and I instantly saw I had made the right choice. It was cozy, and there were enough local people that you just knew it would be good. The earl grey latte I got was perfect, and the piece of cake was also enjoyable. They have tables, couches, and cribbage boards.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Other
Price per person
$10–20

Cute little coffee shop/bistro with great sandwiches and delicious cookies. Definitely a neighborhood gem. I will definitely be coming back to try some other stuff. I had the iron man sandwich and a ginger snap cookie. The iron man was on the small size for a $10 sandwich but it was quite tasty. The cookie was moist, soft and chewy and just the perfect amount of sweetness.

I love this place. I grew up nearby in Edgemont and have many fond childhood memories of Friends! I'll still drive across town for lunch and to enjoy the great atmosphere. The food is exceptional homemade quality, the coffee is delicious, and the friendly owner and staff make it a great place for lunch or coffee. 5/5 Hands down my favourite coffee shop in all of Calgary.

A nice friendly cafe like you see on TV where it's full of regulars and the staff seem to know everybody. My wife and I went here just before eloping almost 3 years ago and Margie, the owner, made us sit down until she could find a minute to talk/interrogate us to make sure we had thought it out and that we had told our parents (we had). Great food, great coffee.

The best thing about Friends is the Fratello coffee, I'm sure there is more to love but I'm not a regular here. I've been going off and on for about 5 years. I should also mention they do have some good food to go with the awesome coffee! If you're in the area and want a good cup of coffee, a cozy place to sit and a friendly atmosphere then be sure to visit.

This is one of my favourite coffee and sandwich shops. The food is great, the coffee is strong and the people are very friendly. You get several choices of seating from bench, to tables, couches near the fireplace. It's a great place to take a break and meet with people. The clam chouder is a local hit on Friday's if you can get there before it's gone.

Tried this place for the first time and the chai latte was good but the crantastic turkey sandwich was disgusting. It's like a whole jar of cranberry jelly with a little bit of turkey on dry bread with butter. Couldn't even eat it and threw it out it was terrible.
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 1
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 4

This Cafe is adorable! They have a huge menu selection with creative but delicious foods and flavors as well as fantastic drinks. If you are staying inside the cafe they will bring all your drinks and food right to the table you're at. The staff is very welcoming and friendly and it almost makes you feel you're at home the moment to walk it.

Such a comfy cozy spot to meet friends and not feel rushed. We enjoyed multiple cups of coffee & treats while chatting on the couch for a couple hours. Felt so good to catch up with a close friend. There was a steady flow of customers, but never got uncomfortably loud or crowded. The service was lovely & our coffee tasty. More

Lives up to its name. A friendly neighbourhood coffee shop with delicious drinks and food. The staff and environment is warm and just puts you at ease from the moment you walk in the door. Their baked goods are some of my favourite in all of the city. Grateful to have them at a walking distance for whenever I want to go over

What a great gem in Edgemont. Yummy food, tasty treats and fantastic coffees. The staff and owner are more than pleasant and accommodating. Each week they welcome a large mom and baby group that I am a part of, we never feel rushed or unwanted. We travel several communities over to have a nice afternoon at Friends cafe!

Cute little Cafe with excellent sandwiches and great drinks. Had lovely holiday themed decorations when we went which really added to the atmosphere.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Steamed Milk

We stopped in here after Nose Hill for a flat white and macchiato. The quality was amazing, and the service was awesome, and the atmosphere was super cozy. We will plan to have lunch here next time.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Other
Price per person
$1–10
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

It’s nice to be in a comfy space like this. I will note that if you order skim milk or any other non-dairy milk there’s an additional charge and it’s not mentioned anywhere. Made for a bit more of a latte investment ($0.85 for skim).
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Other
Price per person
$10–20

I don't have a single bad thing to say about Friends. Great food and have been coming here for years. The inside atmosphere is very nice and the staff are always friendly and cheerful. The care that is put in by the family owners really show through. I recommend the breakfast Bob Sandwich, never dissapoints!

Been coming here for over 20 years and it is still one of my favorite places to visit. I don't live in the area anymore but still make the drive to come here. The friendly staff and atmosphere is just a bonus to the delicious food and drinks. I MUST get the Bob's Lake Sandwich every time I come here.

They kicked us out at 4pm when they closed. Food was great, coffee was great, environment was clean and organized, but most importantly the service was great. The staff were so polite and WANTED to make sure our experience was excellent. Will go back when in the area. Will recommend this place.

One of the few remaining classic coffee shops around. Friendly staff who prepare great food and drinks. Perfect place to go to after a walk on the Edgemont hills. Currently open for inside safe dining and a couple of outdoor tables. Turkey zinger and a muffin- doesn't get any better . …

Very cute place, great coffee lots of cool unique Sandwiches, great baked goods. Definitely plan on coming back!
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
The One Panini

Neighborhood coffee shop. Quite and charming in the middle of the afternoon when we stopped for a coffee to go. Service was good and the prices reasonable. They have tons of baked goods but we didn't partake.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$1–10

Cute little cafe in Edgemont, Calgary. It has limited seating (quite busy on a Friday afternoon), however the chairs/sofa available are very comfortable. Nice staff and great tasting coffee and carrot cake!
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Brunch
Price per person
$10–20

Great coffee shop experience. There is cozy seating with big comfy chairs. Lots of beverages to choose from. I had apple cider but everything on the menu is good. Great food and snack collection as well. Definitely a local gem that stands out from the big chain type coffee shops.

This is a great little coffee place located in Edgemont. The staff and the atmosphere was great and the prices were reasonable. I had a piece of the English Toffee cake and it was extremely tasty. There is also a nice little patio to enjoy the weather so would definitely go back!

I was hoping for more baked items to accompany my tea...but there isn't much. They do seem to have a great selection of sandwiches however... *priced between $10-$13 w/ soup. I like the feel of this cafe...with comfy warm seating and arrangement and a lovely fire kickin;)

It was my first time visiting and I tried their Caramelita (if I’m spelling it right) and it tasted delicious. Cafe has homely, rustic vibes and many of the customers seemed to know the owner and baristas by first names. I would like to visit again.
Service
Dine in

Love that this place is so close to Nose Hill. It's such a cozy coffee shop and I love their cakes. Tried a couple of their paninis too and they were so delicious! Would definitely come back.
Service
Take out
Meal type
Brunch
Price per person
$10–20

One of the best family run breakfast places in Calgary. They have fresh home made soup of the day, everyday. Place has been for 23 years. I had a grilled ironman panini and a large machiato. Comfortable seating with options - chairs,couch and a bar and stool.

The coffee is amazing and the sandwiches are out of this world. Just love this coffee shop. Adelle and team are amazing hosts.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

We had coffee with friends here. The atmosphere was good. People kept coming in. But we still could enjoy a great time here.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Other
Price per person
$1–10
Food: 4
Service: 4
Atmosphere: 4

I love this place very much. I've been coming here for over 10 years and this review is long overdue. The food is fresh, it's delicious, customer service is well above and beyond. It's a nice, fun cozy place. Certainly don't miss out on this gem

Got passion fruit cheesecake and it was okay, but the cream bagel and the hot chocolate were amazing. Recommend.
Service
Take out
Meal type
Other
Price per person
$1–10
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

I hosted an engagement party at Friends cafe and had a wonderful experience! The owners were very accommodating during the pre-planning, set up, and night of the event. They catered delicious deli-sandwich's and dessert tarts for 20 people!

We have been going to Friends for years now - we often walk across Nose Hill Park and reward ourselves with a great lunch and great coffee. Oh, did I use fantastic and carrot cake in the same sentence?? We still visit often, and now I take

i couldn’t understand the guy at the counter because of the mask and the glass thing that blocks the counter..i ordered iced mochaccino but they put it in a paper cup..took forever to make my coffee..price is unreasonable for the taste..

Its a nice coffee ☕️ shop in my opinion, wasn't busy which I prefer. A decent selection of treats to choose from. Based my experience on this visit I would visit this place again
Food: 4
Service: 4
Atmosphere: 4

Good neighborhood place, and there for many years.
Service
Take out
Meal type
Other
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 2
Service: 1
Atmosphere: 2
Recommended dishes
Tuna Sandwich and Soup

Great food. Not a lot of tables or sitting spots.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Brunch
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 5
Service: 4
Atmosphere: 4
Recommended dishes
Turkey Panini

Great and friendly staff. The food is also EXCELLENT! The new owner has really gone above and beyond! The Passionfruit Cheesecake is a must!
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$20–30

Very cute place! Loved the Barb sandwich and the pumpkin steamer was lovely!
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Breakfast
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

Love this place. The food, drinks and desserts are amazing but the hours are limited so I don't get to visit often.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Other
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

Great little coffee shop, makes an excellent chicken quesadilla. Very friendly staff. Tasty date bar. Almond-milk chai tea latte could use a bit more flavour, but we'll definitely come here again. It's quite cozy.

Friends is an excellent place to stop for great food in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Margie, the owner, has for well over twenty years created in Edgemont one of the best places for breakfast, lunch or coffee.

Cozy spot & nice service. Requested gluten free bread and had a pastry marked GF - unfortunately one of those items was not.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$20–30

Delicious food with lots of options. We went for breakfast one morning after seeing all the great reviews and Friends did not disappoint. A little pricey compared to what you get other places.

Good food. Good atmosphere. Not great parking lot.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

Service, coffee and muffins were amazing!!! Cute coffee shop. Can’t wait to come back :)
Service
Take out
Meal type
Breakfast
Price per person
$10–20

Lovely place to chat with a friend and have some brealfast or coffee
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Brunch
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

Nice little classic coffee shop - very clean inside and friendly staff. Good quality coffee (smooth, not bitter). Will recommend to others and will be back again.

I go there weekly for coffee and baked goods. It is a great cafe with a nice variety of drinks and treats
Food: 5
Service: 4
Atmosphere: 4

Carrot cake used to be divine. Still nice but you’re skimping on the lovely icing. Somewhat disappointed.
Food: 3
Service: 4
Atmosphere: 4

Love coming here for meetings and to get some work done. The staff are always very friendly and the food is Truly an awesome neighborhood cafe!

Great local place, tasty dessert, mochaccino and matcha green tea latte. Fast serving. Pretty roomy, so you can keep up with covid restrictions.

Cosy cafe near nose hill park. They offer house made sandwiches, soup of the day, coffee, and baked goods. Has a grandma's house kind of feel.

I ate about 6 ruffles chips from the container before taking this photo. It was good but it was $14.95 and smaller than an iPhone.

Your friendly neighborhood cafe serves home made soup and sandwiches and gourmet coffee. Definitely support this local business

Nice place. Dinning in residents from the area. Good latte. Not my type of cakes, but tasty muffins and creative sandwiches!

I was looking forward to visiting this cute little cafe following a hike around Nose Hill after hearing positive things.

This is a great place for lunch. The sandwiches are delicious and the lemonade is so refreshing on a hot day.

Good food, friendly service, and a cozy atmosphere. A good place away from the hustle of major centres.

A quaint and cozy family run coffee shop in Edgemont on top of the hill (behind the esso gas station).

The soups and sandwiches are so good. My grandma likes to go here with me.
Service…
More

I found a very good cafe. The coffee and cake was delicious. I will often visit here

Food is ok, but pricey. $40 (with tip) for a soda, coffee and two sandwiches.

Nice place to hangout. The latte was nice. The chairs are uncomfortable.

Cozy & welcoming. Good vibes. Great coffee & friendly service.