Every Gastown walk passes it: the narrow corner building where Water Street and West Cordova split apart, like a slice of cake on a map. Since April 2023 that prime corner has been home to Monaco Cafe, a European-style spot for pastries, espresso and gelato, and quite possibly the best people-watching seat in the neighbourhood.
Monaco Cafe at a glance
| Address | 356 Water Street, Vancouver, BC V6B 1B6 |
| Neighbourhood | Gastown, at the Water and Cordova fork |
| Type | European-style cafe with pastries and gelato |
| Known for | Croissants, pastries, gelato, corner windows and patio |
| Best for | A sweet break, visitors, people-watching, longer opening hours |
| Price | $$ |
| Nearest SkyTrain | Waterfront Station (about 5 minutes on foot) |
Location and getting there
Monaco took over the former Buro Coffee space in the wedge-shaped corner building at the western end of Water Street. Waterfront Station is a five-minute walk away, the steam clock is a few minutes east, and Timbertrain and Revolver are a short stroll up Cordova and Cambie. It’s an easy first or last stop on any Gastown walk.
What Monaco Cafe offers
- Pastries: Butter croissants, chocolate croissants and hazelnut-Nutella croissants, plus pecan caramel rolls, fruit danishes and lemon loaf.
- Dietary options: Vegan banana walnut muffins and a gluten-free New York cheesecake have been regular menu items.
- Coffee: Espresso drinks, drip and iced coffees.
- Gelato: A gelato case that makes it a summer favourite, and an easy affogato.
- Sandwiches: Light lunches for a quick bite.
The vibe
Sunny patio, big corner windows and a modern interior with a Mediterranean touch. It feels more like a continental neighbourhood cafe than a coffee-nerd bar, and that’s the point: you come for a croissant, a cappuccino and a good view of the cobblestones. Monaco has historically kept longer hours than many Gastown cafes, which makes it useful for an evening coffee or gelato.
What to order
- Morning: A cappuccino and an almond or chocolate croissant.
- Afternoon: An affogato, espresso poured over gelato.
- Gluten-free: The New York cheesecake with an Americano.
Who it’s best for
Visitors exploring Gastown, families who want a gelato stop, and anyone who wants a relaxed, sweet break with a view. Coffee purists may prefer the roaster-driven bars nearby.
How it compares with nearby cafes
Monaco is the most “holiday café” of the Gastown options. Café Kitsuné on the same street is sleeker and more design-driven; Timbertrain and Revolver focus on the coffee itself. Go to Monaco for the pastry case and the window seat.
Worth knowing
Local media have reported that Monaco Cafe was put up for sale. It continued to operate, but ownership and menus can change after a sale, so check its social channels for the latest before a special trip.
Photos
Find Monaco Cafe
- Address: 356 Water Street, Vancouver, BC V6B 1B6
- Neighbourhood: Gastown
- Map: Open Monaco Cafe in Google Maps
Hours change seasonally, so confirm on the café’s own channels before you visit.
Nearby cafes in Gastown
- Timbertrain Coffee Roasters, two minutes up Cordova.
- Revolver on Cambie.
- Café Kitsuné along Water Street.
Explore more
Map your visit with our Gastown cafe guide or see the full Vancouver cafe guide. Curious what an affogato is? Our espresso drinks guide explains it.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Monaco Cafe in Gastown?
At 356 Water Street, in the corner building where Water Street and West Cordova split.
Does Monaco Cafe have gelato?
Yes, along with pastries and espresso drinks.
Does Monaco Cafe have gluten-free or vegan options?
It has offered a gluten-free cheesecake and vegan muffins. Ask at the counter for the day’s options.
Last checked November 2026. Hours and menus change, so check the cafe’s own website or Instagram before you go. Spot something out of date? Let us know.
