Café Cambio Coopérative de Solidarité

When visiting Saguenay, it is impossible to pass by Café Cambio—it's not just a place that serves coffee, but a true example of cooperative solidarity in action. Located in the heart of the Chicoutimi district, this establishment combines a micro-roastery, a healthy food restaurant, and an active cultural center. Founded in 2005, the cooperative has become a benchmark for sustainable development in Canada, proving that a business can be both profitable and ethical.

The establishment's main pride is its organic coffee, certified according to Fairtrade standards. Every year, more than 15 tons of beans are roasted here, purchased directly from farmers in Global South countries through partner cooperatives. This place is infused with the philosophy of responsible consumption and support for local producers, creating a unique atmosphere of being part of an important cause.

Inside, guests will find not only the aroma of freshly roasted coffee but also a dynamic space where exhibitions and community events are regularly held. Café Cambio is a living example of how a passion for a quality product can transform a local community, turning an ordinary trip to a café into an educational journey into the world of fair trade.

For those planning a visit or wishing to book a table for a large group, all the necessary contact information is listed below. You can reach the staff by phone or browse their selection on the official website in advance. Finding Café Cambio in the city center is easy by following the address or using the convenient map.

The first thing to do at Café Cambio is to embark on a small gastronomic journey by ordering a cup of their signature coffee. The staff will be happy to tell you stories of producers from different countries, explain the nuances of roasting, and help you choose a variety that is right for you. It's a great opportunity to learn more about how your choice affects the lives of farmers around the world.

Be sure to check out the menu: they emphasize healthy eating, with about 90% of products coming from local farmers in the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region. A variety of options are available, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices. After your meal, visit the specialized shop at the cooperative, where you can buy freshly roasted beans to take a piece of Canadian hospitality home with you.

In addition to tastings, the café offers a rich cultural program. Take a close look at the walls—works by local artists are often exhibited here. If you're lucky, you might catch a lecture, workshop, or social event, which are regularly held within the walls of this welcoming space that brings together locals and tourists alike.

Café Cambio is located in the heart of the lively Chicoutimi district at 414 rue Racine Est. Thanks to its central location, it is very easy to reach either on foot while strolling through the city's main streets or by transport. For drivers, using a GPS navigator is the best solution to lead you straight to the cooperative building, and there is parking available for visitors near the café.

If you prefer public transport, use the bus routes of Saguenay that pass through the center. Most stops in the Chicoutimi area are within a short walking distance of the café. You can also always take a taxi from anywhere in the city—the trip from major hotels or the station will take no more than 10–15 minutes.

The story of this remarkable place began on March 17, 2005, through the initiative of two childhood friends—Ghislaine Pelletier and Geneviève Demers. While traveling through countries of the Global South, they witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by coffee producers and realized the scale of global inequality. Upon returning to Canada, they decided to take action and created a project that would combine the principles of fair trade and sustainable development.

At that time, the Fairtrade concept was virtually unknown in the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region, and Café Cambio became a true pioneer. Initially, the establishment opened as a small micro-roastery and cultural space on Racine Street. Over time, the cooperative grew, attracting more like-minded people, and became an important symbol of responsible consumption for local residents.

A significant milestone in its development occurred in 2019, when the cooperative purchased its own building at 414 rue Racine Est. This acquisition allowed for a significant expansion: a spacious kitchen, a modern area for roasting and packaging beans, and a specialized coffee shop were added. Today, more than 15,000 kg of organic coffee is roasted here annually, and the café itself has turned into a full-fledged center of social life in the city.

To fully enjoy the atmosphere of Café Cambio, we recommend planning for 1 to 2 hours. If you are just stopping by for a quick cup of coffee or a few items from the coffee shop, 30–45 minutes should be enough.

However, if you want to have a full lunch, try rare coffee varieties, and perhaps talk to the staff about the cooperative's mission and the origin of the beans, it's better to set aside about two hours. This time will fly by as you explore local products and enjoy the cozy interior of this socially significant spot.

Café Cambio welcomes guests daily, offering a convenient schedule for both early breakfasts and weekend evening gatherings. From Monday to Wednesday, the doors are open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. On Thursday and Friday, the café stays open longer—until 9:00 PM, making it a great spot for dinner.

On weekends, the schedule changes slightly: on Saturday and Sunday, visitors are welcomed from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Please note that hours may be adjusted on public holidays, so it's worth checking the official website or calling ahead before your visit.

A visit to Café Cambio can easily be combined with a walk to other interesting spots in the city, as it is located at the heart of cultural and gastronomic activity. Exploring the surroundings will help you better feel the atmosphere of the region and discover cozy restaurants, historical landmarks, and places to relax.

Within walking distance of the café, you will find both quiet historical corners and modern entertainment centers, making this area ideal for a busy day of sightseeing.