If Commercial Drive has a living room, it’s Café Calabria. Francesco “Frank” Murdocco opened it in 1976, naming it after his birthplace in southern Italy, back when the Drive was Vancouver’s Little Italy and coffee bars doubled as social clubs. Nearly half a century later, his sons Nick, Vince and Frank Jr. help run it, the walls are covered in family photos and signed pictures of famous visitors, and the espresso still tastes like the Drive’s history.
At a glance
| Address | 1745 Commercial Drive, Vancouver, BC V5N 4A4 (near East 2nd Avenue) |
| Neighbourhood | Commercial Drive / Grandview-Woodland (Little Italy) |
| Type | Family-run Italian espresso bar and café |
| Known for | Cappuccino, panini, Italian décor and music |
| Best for | A real Little Italy experience, soccer matches, people-watching |
| Price | $ |
| Transit | Commercial–Broadway Station, about 7 minutes on foot |
Location and getting there
Calabria sits in the heart of the Drive’s Italian stretch, a short walk north of Commercial–Broadway SkyTrain. Continental Coffee is a block away, and Prado and the Drive’s delis and grocers are within a few minutes. Grandview Park is a pleasant walk north.
What Café Calabria offers
- Espresso: Strong, traditional Italian-style espresso, cappuccino and lattes.
- Panini and sandwiches: Calabria is as famous for its sandwiches as its coffee. Regulars swear by “The Frank Special,” grilled.
- Sweets: Biscotti, cookies and Italian pastries to dunk.
The vibe
Gloriously over the top. Papier-mâché reproductions of Michelangelo’s statues, chandeliers, framed photos and Italian opera or Dean Martin on the stereo. It’s loud, friendly and full of regulars, especially when Italy or a big European club is playing on TV. It started as one of several men’s social clubs on the Drive dedicated to the owners’ home regions; today everyone is welcome, and you’ll be treated like family by your second visit.
What to order
- Classic: A cappuccino and a biscotti.
- Lunch: The Frank Special panini.
- Quick: An espresso at the bar, Italian style.
Who it’s best for
Anyone who wants to feel the Drive’s Italian roots, soccer fans, and visitors who want a café that couldn’t exist anywhere else. It’s not the place for single-origin pour-over or quiet laptop work.
How it compares
Continental Coffee a block away is the other old-school institution, with its own roasted beans. For modern specialty coffee, walk to Prado or Moja.
Tips
- Italian Day in June and major tournaments pack the café; arrive early.
- Bring cash as a backup and a bit of patience at peak times.
- Say hello to whichever Murdocco is behind the bar.
Find Café Calabria
- Address: 1745 Commercial Drive, Vancouver, BC V5N 4A4
- Neighbourhood: Commercial Drive
- Map: Open Café Calabria in Google Maps
Hours change seasonally, so confirm on the café’s own channels before you visit.
Nearby cafes on the Drive
Explore more
See the Commercial Drive cafe guide and our espresso drinks guide.
Frequently asked questions
When did Café Calabria open?
In 1976, founded by Francesco Murdocco.
Is Café Calabria still family-run?
Yes. The Murdocco family, including Frank’s sons, runs the café.
What should I order at Café Calabria?
A cappuccino and the Frank Special panini.
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.
