Dolce Italian Café Introduce
Dolce Italian Café stands as a charming, multipurpose culinary destination right in the heart of New Canaan, Connecticut. Far more than just a standard coffee shop, Dolce seamlessly blends the warmth of an Italian café with the diverse offerings of a full-service restaurant. Local users in Connecticut seek out this spot for its ability to cater to nearly any dining need, from an early morning espresso and a healthy breakfast to a cozy spot for lunch or a satisfying dinner, offering a taste of the Italian 'sweet life' right on Elm Street.
The establishment takes pride in its broad culinary scope, functioning as a true hub for Italian-inspired comfort food and quick bites. Its classification as a Cafe, Breakfast restaurant, Coffee shop, Health food restaurant, and Italian restaurant highlights its versatility. Whether you are craving the simple pleasure of an authentic Italian Panini, a freshly made crepe, a robust bowl of pasta, or one of their noted "Great dessert" options like Cannoli, Dolce Italian Café aims to deliver quality and speed, underlined by its highlight of "Fast service."
While the venue promises a diverse menu, it also offers a full beverage service, including Alcohol, Beer, Cocktails, Hard liquor, and Wine, making it a viable option for an evening out, in addition to its daytime cafe operations. The atmosphere is deliberately "Casual" and "Cozy," providing a comfortable, welcoming backdrop for "Solo dining" or meeting up with "Groups." This unique combination of offerings ensures Dolce Italian Café remains a relevant and popular choice for the discerning Connecticut local.
It is worth noting for users seeking a refined espresso experience that some customer feedback suggests the espresso preparation relies on automatic machines, which some purists may find lacking in the 'barista craft.' Nevertheless, the cafe continues to draw patrons with its friendly staff, wide food selection, and overall convenience.
Dolce Italian Café is ideally situated at 98 Elm St, New Canaan, CT 06840. This prime address places it directly within the desirable downtown area of New Canaan, making it easily accessible for pedestrians browsing the local shops, commuters, and residents running errands. The proximity to other local businesses in this central location enhances its convenience as a go-to spot.
The location is designed for maximum ease of access for all members of the Connecticut community:
- Accessibility Features: The premises feature a Wheelchair accessible entrance, Wheelchair accessible parking lot, Wheelchair accessible restroom, and Wheelchair accessible seating, ensuring a welcoming environment for all patrons.
- Parking: While the specifics of local street parking vary, its downtown location means both street parking and nearby municipal lots (potentially paid or free depending on the hour) are typically available to users.
- Seating Options: Guests can choose from comfortable indoor Seating or the pleasant experience of Outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying New Canaan's weather during warmer months.
The service model at Dolce Italian Café is robust, supporting a full day of operations from breakfast through dinner and catering to modern customer demands for convenience:
- Full Day Dining: Serves Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner, accommodating various daily schedules.
- Comprehensive Beverage Selection: Offers a full suite of drinks, including "Great coffee," Espresso, Hot Chai, Iced Matcha, as well as Alcohol, Beer, Cocktails, Hard liquor, and Wine.
- Convenient Service Options: Guests can utilize Curbside pickup, Delivery, Takeout, and traditional Dine-in table service.
- Food Specialties: Provides Prepared foods, Comfort food, Quick bite items, and Small plates, suitable for a light snack or a full meal.
- Menu Flexibility: Offers Vegetarian options and Organic dishes, catering to diverse dietary needs and preferences.
- Group and Event Services: Provides Catering services for local events and is known for being "Good for kids," making it a family-friendly choice.
- Amenities: Features a Restroom and complimentary Wi-Fi, making it a suitable location for both casual dining and getting work done.
- Payment Options: Accepts multiple modern payment methods including Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.
Dolce Italian Café distinguishes itself with a menu that focuses on Italian-inspired classics and healthy, modern alternatives, all delivered with an emphasis on speed and quality in key areas:
- Celebrated Desserts: A main highlight is the "Great dessert" selection, which includes authentic Italian treats such as Cannoli, Biscotti ("Cantucci"), as well as customer favorites like NY Cheesecake and Tres Leches.
- Extensive Panini and Crepe Menu: The Panini and Crepe selections are particularly extensive, offering both savory (like Prosciutto Panini, Smoked Salmon Crepe, Chicken Basil Oil & Feta Crepe) and sweet (Nutella Panini, Oreo Crepe) options.
- Focus on Health and Wellness: The menu prominently features healthy choices, including the "Healthy Breakfast" section (Avocado Toast, Yogurt Parfait, Oatmeal) and an entire list of healthy salads and soups (Kale Salad, Quinoa Salad, Lentil Soup).
- Authentic Italian Fare: The offering of Fresh Pasta (Spaghetti, Rigatoni, Gnocchi, Cavatelli, Fettuccine) and classic Italian Panini provides a genuine taste of Italy.
- "Great Coffee" and Specialty Drinks: Alongside traditional options, the menu includes specialty beverages like Espresso Soda, Italian Iced Tea, and a variety of lattes and cappuccinos.
- Cozy and Friendly Environment: The combined "Casual" and "Cozy" atmosphere, supported by the reputation for "Fast service" and "Friendly staff" (as noted in customer reviews), makes it a comfortable daily retreat for locals.
For New Canaan locals looking to place a takeout order, inquire about catering services, or confirm dining availability, the contact information for Dolce Italian Café is as follows:
Address: 98 Elm St, New Canaan, CT 06840
Phone: (203) 594-1424
Mobile Phone (Direct Line): +1 203-594-1424
While exact, real-time operating hours should always be verified, the café typically maintains a comprehensive schedule from morning until early evening most days of the week to cover the full spectrum of breakfast, lunch, and dinner crowds. Patrons are advised to call ahead, especially for catering or large group seating inquiries.
Dolce Italian Café is a solid choice for Connecticut users in the New Canaan area primarily because of its sheer versatility and central location. It successfully manages to serve multiple functions—from a quick morning coffee stop to a relaxed dinner destination—all in one convenient spot. This makes it an invaluable resource for busy locals.
The expansive menu ensures there is something for everyone. For the health-conscious, the array of salads, soups, and healthy breakfast items provides excellent alternatives to typical cafe fare. For those seeking comfort, the fresh Pasta options and classic Panini are highly appealing. Above all, the highlight of "Great dessert," featuring authentic Cannoli, is a compelling reason to visit for a sweet treat or after-meal indulgence.
However, users should manage their expectations regarding the coffee preparation, as noted in the customer feedback about the espresso equipment. If "barista craft" espresso is the primary motivation for your visit, you might consider it a minor drawback. Despite this, the consistent praise for the friendly staff and the convenience of multiple service options (Outdoor seating, Curbside pickup, Delivery) solidify Dolce Italian Café as a reliable, convenient, and overall welcoming place to eat, drink, and socialize in New Canaan, CT.
Dolce Italian Café Food & drink
- Soup & Salads & Bowls
- Quinoa Salad $13.95Quinoa, white corn, tomato, roasted corn, Italian tuna, cilantro and lime dressing. 
- Mediterranean Salad $13.95Cucumber, tomato, onion, oregano, feta cheese and extra virgin olive oil. 
- Lentil Soup $9.00
- "NEW" Healthy Choice Bowl $10.95
- Tomato & Basil Soup $8.00
- Smoked Salmon Salad $13.95Arugula, pickled onion, capers, goat cheese and balsamic vinaigrette 
- Caprese Salad $11.95Mozzarella Tomatoes Basil Arugula 
- Caesar Salad $12.95Romaine, Italian croutons and Parmigiano cheese. 
- Mixed Green Salad $11.95Romaine, arugula, kale and cucumber with Italian balsamic vinaigrette or raspberry vinaigrette. 
- Kale Salad $13.95Toasted almond, pumpkin seeds, pickled onion, beets and Parmigiano cheese with champagne vinaigrette. 
- Spinach Salad $12.95Toasted almond, pickled onion, feta cheese, apple with mustard vinaigrette 
- Italian Wedding Soup $10.00
- Panini & Healthy Wraps
- Vegetariano Panini $11.95Marinated mixed vegetables, oregano and extra virgin olive oil. 
- Prosciutto Panini $13.95Parma prosciutto, fresh mozzarella, tomato and basil. 
- Nutella Panini $9.00Imported Italian Nutella, sea salt and extra virgin olive oil. 
- Grilled Cheese Toast Panini $6.95Includes your choice of cheese. Add smoked salmon or one egg for an additional charge. 
- Turkey Panini $13.95Turkey, smoked Gouda, arugula and fig jam. 
- Tuna Panini $13.95Italian Tuna, onion tomato lettuce and mayo 
- Smoked Salmon Panini $13.95Alaska smoked salmon, arugula and creme fraiche. 
- Blackened Chicken Panini $13.95Blackened deli chicken, avocado, tomato and mayonnaise. 
- Caprese Panini $12.95Fresh mozzarella, tomato, fresh basil and extra virgin olive oil. 
- Ham And Cheese Toast Panini $7.95Rovagnati Italian cooked ham and American cheese. Add smoked salmon or one egg for an additional charge. 
- Healthy Wrap $11.95Build your own. Add Protein & Cheese for an up charge. 
- Brunch Panini $14.95Egg, sausage bacon and American cheese 
- Ischitana Panini $14.95Hometown speciality. Parma prosciutto, romaine lettuce, tomato, mozzarella and mayonnaise. 
- Dessert
- Cannoli $4.00
- Tres Leches $5.50
- 3'' Round Single Serve Cake $8.00Gluten Free 
- Toasted Almond Cake Slice $5.50
- Biscotti (4)"Cantucci" $2.00
- Macarons Sleeve $12.00
- NY Cheesecake $7.50Gluten Free 
- Healthy Breakfast
- Fresh Fruit Salad $6.95Mixed Berries and Banana. 
- Avocado Toast $8.95Includes your choice of bread: white bread, multigrain or gluten-free (at an additional charge). Add smoked salmon or one egg for an additional cost. 
- Yogurt Parfait $7.95Layers of creamy yogurt with fresh berries and granola. 
- Oatmeal $8.00Mixed berries, Granola & Honey 
- Crepes
- Oreo Crepe $8.25
- Vegetable Crepe $12.00
- Tomato & Mozzarella Crepe $12.00
- Chocolate & Marshmallow Crepe $8.25
- Nutella Crepe $7.50
- Smoked Salmon & Arugula Crepe $12.50
- Ham And Cheese Crepe $12.50Includes your choice of cheese. 
- Sausage & Egg Crepe $12.50
- Butter & Sugar Crepe $7.00
- Turkey & Basil Pesto Crepe $12.50
- Chicken Basil Oil & Feta $13.50
- Honey & Lemon Crepe $7.00
- Cannoli Crepe $8.25
- Dulce De Leche Crepe $8.50
- Bacon & Cheese $12.50
- Cinnamon & Maple Syrup Crepe $8.25
- Pasta
- Spaghetti $18.95Spaghetti prepared with your choice of alfredo, basil pesto, butter & sage, pomodoro, truffle cream, or vodka sauce. 
- Cavatelli $18.95Cavatelli pasta prepared with your choice of alfredo, basil pesto, butter & sage, pomodoro, truffle cream, or vodka sauce. 
- Gnocchi $18.95Gnocchi prepared with your choice of alfredo, basil pesto, butter & sage, pomodoro, truffle cream, or vodka sauce. 
- Rigatoni $18.95Rigatoni prepared with your choice of alfredo, basil pesto, butter & sage, pomodoro, truffle cream, or vodka sauce. 
- Fettuccine $18.95Fettuccine prepared with your choice of alfredo, basil pesto, butter & sage, pomodoro, truffle cream, or vodka sauce. 
- Breakfast
- Traditional Egg Sandwich $3.95Portuguese muffin served with organic egg and cheese. Add one protein or substitute gluten free toast for an additional charge. 
- Bagels $3.02
- Beverage
- Espresso Soda $3.95
- Italian Iced Tea $3.50Choose lemon, peach or green tea. 
- Fresh Brewed Iced Tea Or Fizzy Drink $3.50
- Aranciata San Pellegrino $3.50
- Limonata San Pellegrino $3.50
- San Pellegrino $3.75
- Acqua Panna $3.75
- Aranciata Rossa San Pellegrino $3.50
- Chocolate Milk $3.75
- Rise Cold Brew $4.00
- Soda $3.00
- Coffee and Tea
- Drip Coffee Or Cold Brew (Iced Or Hot) $3.00Choose iced or hot. Add one syrup for an additional cost. 
- Cappuccino $4.25Choose iced or hot. Available alternative milk: almond, soy or oat milk for an additional charge. Add one syrup for an additional cost. 
- Hot Chai $4.60
- Cortado $4.10
- Hot Matcha $4.60
- Iced Matcha $4.75
- Iced Chai $4.75
- Single Shot Espresso $2.95
- Double Shot Espresso $3.95
- Latte $4.50Choose iced or hot. Available alternative milk: almond, soy or oat milk for an additional charge. Add one syrup for an additional cost. 
- Americano $3.50Choose iced or hot. Add one syrup for an additional cost. 
- Macchiato $3.10
- Milkshake and Smoothie
- Smoothie $6.50Choose up to two fruit: mango, peach, raspberry, banana, strawberry ,pineapple, coconut. 
- Chocolate Milkshake $7.50
- Vanilla Milkshake $7.50
Dolce Italian Café Details
- Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Curbside pickup
- Delivery
- Takeout
- Dine-in
- Highlights
- Fast service
- Great coffee
- Great dessert
- Popular for
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
- Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Hard liquor
- Organic dishes
- Prepared foods
- Quick bite
- Small plates
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
- Dining options
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
- Amenities
- Restroom
- Wi-Fi
- Wi-Fi
- Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Planning
- Accepts reservations
- Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Children
- Good for kids
Dolce Italian Café Photos










Dolce Italian Café Location
Dolce Italian Café
98 Elm St, New Canaan, CT 06840, USA
Dolce Italian Café Reviews
paninicroissantcrepessaladcappuccinodinnerlattecannolismultigrain breadavocado dip
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1- Automatic espresso machine is a bad replacement. Looks like old pic showed better drinks from a manual machine.No discernible crema, just an artificial looking foam plopped on top. I tried the shop a second time with the same result. I can buy a machine. I want barista craft from an espresso. This felt zero effort. September 29 · Cody Heisinger
- The food was of low quality and overpriced. My husband and I ordered the avocado toast, which came on a thin slice of supermarket-style "multigrain" bread — not the sourdough you’d expect — topped with a small layer of pre-packaged avocado paste instead of fresh slices. The croissant was decent, and the coffee and cappuccino were fine.Hygiene was also a concern: the plates and cups didn’t seem properly cleaned, and the restroom had no liquid soap or paper towels.The one positive was the friendly staff who served us, but unfortunately, that alone doesn’t make up for the poor experience overall. On our next trip to Canaan, CT, we’ll be trying other options instead. August 25 · Olga NYC
- The café itself is cozy and pretty, so I stopped by with good expectations. I ordered three Americanos and one matcha latte, matcha just taste like milk all three Americanos came with milk in them by mistake. I let the staff know, and since all three had already been made, I asked if they could at least remake two properly as Americanos. Unfortunately, the staff member who made the mistake seemed visibly annoyed, making us feel as if we were being unreasonable.Even worse, the two “remade” drinks still had milk in them—half poured out, then diluted with water and espresso. I just accepted them but ended up leaving most of it. It was quite disappointing, especially because the café is so charming and the neighborhood is nice to walk around. Sadly, the way the two staff members handled the situation left a negative impression. I don’t think I’ll be visiting again August 16 · Minha Kim
- My 2nd time here but the 1st time, I didn't like the coffee & because they don't have so much options, so this time, I went somewhere else to buy it. Anyway, after almost an hour roaming around undecided where to eat (because I'm not from the area), I finally decided to grab some Tuna Panini. I'm glad I did cuz it's the best Tuna Sandwich I've ever had -- the multigrain bread was crunchy & the proportion of tuna to the bread & salad was spot on, not too much mayo which I really love...unlike other Tuna Sandwiches I had in the past where the filling is dripping while you take a bite on it. The only thing though is that they haven't updated their pricing either online or the menu. It is stated that it's $13.95 online while $14.95 on their menu, that's why I was quite surprised when I had to pay $17 (with tax but excluding the tip). Other than that, everything was great! April 03 · SHERYL S
- From the moment we stepped into this quaint Italian bistro, we knew we were in for a treat. The warm and inviting ambiance set the stage for what was to be an unforgettable dining experience.I opted for the homemade rigatoni with Pomodoro sauce, adding meatballs to my dish. The rigatoni was perfectly al dente and the Pomodoro sauce bursting with the fresh flavors of sun-ripened tomatoes, basil, and a hint of garlic.My wife's choice was equally impressive - homemade fettuccine with truffle. The fettuccine was expertly crafted, tender yet firm, and the truffle added an exquisite depth of flavor that elevated the dish to new heights. It was clear that the ingredients were of the highest quality and the dishes were prepared with a lot of care and passion.But what truly set our experience apart was the outstanding service. The staff was attentive without being intrusive, knowledgeable, and genuinely passionate about their offerings. They made us feel welcomed and valued, enhancing our dining experience.We ended the evening with what might have been the best tiramisu we’ve had.Highly recommend. January 27 · Nicholas DiMuzio
- Nestled in the heart of New Canaan, Dolce Italian Café is a coffee lover's dream destination. From the moment you step inside, the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee welcomes you into a warm and inviting atmosphere. The cappuccino, a standout favorite, is expertly crafted with a perfect blend of bold espresso and frothy milk, creating a taste that is both luxurious and comforting. Complementing their top-notch coffee drinks is a staff that is genuinely friendly and attentive. Whether you're starting your morning or taking a well-deserved break, Dolce Italian Café offers a delightful experience that leaves you longing for your next visit. August 12 · Alexis Goncalves
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