Leva - Edmonton

Hadn’t been there for a while now but I must say, it’s still very good, and busy. Parking was not a problem this time, University is now out, thus fewer cars parked all over. Their espresso is soooo yummy and so is the desert. Nice place to go and have a one on one visit.

Been going here for years because it in my neighbourhood and I like the location ... My recent trip left me scratching my head ... the tables are now bolted down which means no more than 2 people can be seated and then a gap and another table for two and so on ... I ordered a tea cost $3.50 plus a dollar for milk so I’m paying the same almost as a cappuccino which requires twice the labour !! Why do we keep accepting the insane increases in beverages ... It’s time to rebel ... I do all the time!! So if wages go back down depends who gets elected in Alberta does the prices go back done ?? I very much doubt it even although that’s what they tell us it’s the wage increases!!

My girlfriend and I love coming to Leva for a quick treat or to sit down for brunch/lunch. Their breakfast sandwiches are delicious, with fresh ingredients and the perfect bread bun. Try their smashed avo and get some delicious, crunchy but soft, potatoes on the side. Highly recommend their in-house pastries (pecan pie is my favourite). Can get a bit busy in the weekends, but well worth it! Nice place to come and study on a quiet weekday.

Went to Leva for lunch because it received a rave recommendation in a local magazine. It is near the university and appears to be quite popular with students despite being overpriced for what you get. The diner offers breakfast, pastries, paninis, salads and pizzas, along with the usual array of coffees. The seating is all communal at longish tables, meaning no privacy for conversation, which would be fine in some circumstances, awkward in others. The pizzas on offer were just the usual fare you would get at most good pizza restaurants or a chain like Famosa, but I thought they were pricier and while adequate, nothing particularly special. There is no option for an individual pizza; they all come in one large size. So unless you’ve got a huge appetite, you will be taking soggy pizza home. And here’s a pet peeve — you line up to order your food at the counter, are given your dishes, coffee and cutlery which you have to juggle to get back to your table, yet there is a tip jar staring you in the face. What would I be tipping for? All you’ve done is take my order; there is no service involved that warrants tipping. Also, just FYI, parking is very difficult to find near the diner, so if you’re driving you will be parking several blocks away.

I have been there many times and it seems that every visit is different. When the right Barista is on duty, the coffee are great. Otherwise, well, it depends. A good Capuchino and a croicant is always a winner at Leva’s. Parking is often difficult, depending on the time of day.