Pi Cafe is a cozy little spot in the Junction where the tea is hot, the pies are fresh, and the poutine comes with unusual ingredients.

Co-owners Bonnie and Al opened Pi Cafe in November 2023. Al is a chef with over 20 years of experience, while Bonnie is a self-styled "serial entrepreneur." A real-life couple, the duo went into business simply because they "wanted to do something together."

Fittingly, a stylized mural depicting the couple can be found near the entrance. This piece was designed by Tamara, a local artist and friend of the owners, known on Instagram as @paintedladyworks.

According to Bonnie, the mural was drawn freehand in black Sharpie.

The rest of the Pi Cafe's decor is just as inventive. Though the space isn't particularly large, every inch is packed with charm.

Wooden tables and potted plants give the dining area a slightly rustic vibe, while other elements — such as the selfie-worthy green wall — are decidedly modern.

Al also emphasizes that all dishes are prepared in a cold kitchen.

Though open flames and red-hot stovetops are the norm at other establishments, Pi Cafe makes use of smokers, salad spinners, and pre-owned electric appliances — choices made for both personal and practical reasons.

As its name might suggest, one of Pi Cafe's specialties is a selection of sweet and savoury pies, which are displayed in a glass case near the front counter. The Beef Bourguignon Pi ($15) is one of their most popular meat pies.

Underneath a thick, crusty shell, you'll find an array of ingredients inspired by the traditional French stew: braised beef, chopped carrots, onions, and mushrooms.

Not to be outdone, Pi Cafe also features a number of inventive poutine options on its menu.The Moroccan Roast Vegetable Poutine ($15) is a hearty, comforting meal made from thick-cut french fries and roasted veggies. A thick, spicy sauce is used in lieu of gravy.The Smoked Chicken Poutine ($15) consists of mushrooms, green beans, smoked chicken, cheese curds, and gravy. It tastes almost like a chicken pot pie.

Poutine comes in all the same flavours as the savoury pies. So if smoked chicken or Moroccan roasted vegetables aren't what you're craving, you can instead order Beef Bourguignon Poutine ($15).

Also on the menu is a range of sandwiches.

The Smoked Chicken Sandwich ($12) is composed of similar ingredients, albeit on a bun rather than a pile of fries.

Despite these similarities, I'd recommend trying both dishes. I liked the poutine best, but the sandwich had its own distinct flavour.

As someone who's never been a big fan of veggies, the Fried Brussel Sprouts ($5.50) were a surprisingly pleasant side dish.

Though they still carry a strong, metallic aftertaste, their crisp texture and spicy seasoning makes them more palatable to picky eaters like me.

Beet Kale Walnut Salad ($5.50) is a refreshing dish with a sweet and tangy flavour, provided by a ginger lime sesame vinaigrette.

While the walnuts add a bit of extra crunch, they can easily be removed to accommodate diners with dietary restrictions.

The Daily Soup ($5.50) changes throughout the week, giving guests a reason to return to the cafe.

I tried the Seafood Chowder, a creamy red soup loaded with chunks of bacon, shrimp, and scallops.

The Lime and Raspberry Pi ($15) is a new addition to their line of "Sweetie Pi's."

Its graham cracker crust acts as a base for a generous helping of lime custard, which is garnished with whipped cream, fresh raspberries, and raspberry drizzle.

The pie was still defrosting when it came to our table, but I devoured it almost immediately: the fruity flavours were wonderful, even at that temperature.

Pi Cafe also offers a wide variety of teas and coffees, courtesy of Birdy's Daughter and Genuine Tea.

My personal favourite was the Organic Elderberry Hibiscus Tea ($2.85). This tea, which originated in Egypt, combines hibiscus, elderberries, and currants to create a tart but tasty drink. 

Bonnie added a little bit of honey to my cup, which balanced out the sour notes perfectly.

Pi Cafe is located at 3328 Dundas St W.