Gigli Caffè, 3042 Dundas St. W
Blending a lifelong passion for jazz piano with a love of coffee, Italian culture, and signature bowties, Marco Gigli opened Gigli Caffè in Baby Point in 2023. After a warm reception at his first location, Marco opened the Junction location at 3042 Dundas St. W. in November 2024, which quickly became a local favourite.
After over 20 years of working in the hospitality industry, including high-end restaurants, boutique hotels, and food logistics, Marco decided to realize his long-held dream of creating something entirely his own. Gigli Caffè brings that vision to life, offering a place where Marco can fully express his ideals of hospitality, channel his creativity, and deliver warm, personalized service.
Marco named the café “Gigli” after his family surname, as a tribute to his heritage and the values his family instilled in him. While the name might seem tricky to pronounce, Marco offers a simple tip: say it like “jee-lee” — just like the letter G followed by lee.
For Marco, Gigli Caffè is a reflection of everything he loves about Italian culture, including great coffee and authentic connections. Drawing on his experience of helping to run a family-run bed and breakfast in Italy, Marco has created a space that feels inviting and personal. Every detail is designed to make guests feel at home while enjoying a refined and comfortable atmosphere.
Inside, Gigli Caffè offers the classic elegance of a traditional Italian café. The menu features expertly crafted espresso drinks, iced beverages, and a variety of delicious food offerings, including croissants, sandwiches, and healthy salads. In the evenings, the café transforms into a relaxed aperitivo setting, where guests can enjoy a glass of wine, a cold beer, or a signature Limoncello Spritz accompanied by complimentary small bites. Unless it’s takeout, everything is served at the table to highlight thoughtful, attentive service.
As a professional pianist and jazz enthusiast, Marco has made live music a key part of the experience. Every Friday evening and Saturday morning, visitors can enjoy live jazz piano performances that bring a sense of culture and sophistication to the space.
Marco’s wife, Manuela, plays an important role in the creative direction of the space. Her love of photography and art is reflected in the café’s interior, which features beautiful artwork and photographs from Italy. These pieces capture the spirit of the places that inspire them and elevate the ambiance for every guest.
Adding to its charm, Gigli Caffè also functions as a boutique wine shop. Guests who discover a wine they love during their visit can take home a bottle from the café’s curated selection of Italian wines.
Even before becoming a business owner in the Junction, Marco was a fan of the neighbourhood. He often visited to enjoy the food at Lebanon Express and Isaan Der, and to shop for art supplies at Above Ground or browse the carefully curated selection at Type Books. He appreciates the Junction’s vibrant, community-oriented energy and is proud to be part of it.
After years of helping others succeed, Marco is thrilled to have something of his own with Gigli Caffè. It is a place where he can pour his passion into every cup, every note, and every interaction he has with the Junction community.
Visit Gigli Caffè’s website for seasonal offerings, event updates, and more. Or better yet, stop by for a coffee, stay for the music, and experience it for yourself.
Written by: James Watson
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