a very biased but ultimately correct list
toronto is known for its food scene – it seems like every week, there’s a new must-try spot popping up on the corner. but why does nobody ever talk about the coffee scene here? we are more than just tim hortons, people!
whether you’re looking for the perfect iced coffee this summer, a loved-by-locals spot, or a trendy drink to post on your story – toronto has a spot for you! and, as always, i have opinions. here are my faves:
this criminally underrated spot on bloor and bathurst is the true definition of a hidden gem. it’s a tiny spot with minimal signage, so you could miss it – but it’s worth a visit.
the walls are decorated with neon lights and local artist’s work, which creates a fun, vintage feel to the spot. because it’s a smaller space, there is minimal seating, but in the warmer months there are a couple tables outside that serve as makeshift patio.
this is definitely a locals spot, where the baristas greet everybody and their dogs by name. there is a small selection of freshly baked goods, with an everchanging daily muffin.
this place is open early (6 am to 7 pm every day) and serves a perfect coffee – no bells or whistles needed. their latte goes for an extremely reasonable $5, which is almost unheard of in this city nowadays.
if you’re looking for a reliable every day spot, mallo is it. and if you stay til later, they serve local craft beers and wines!
on the trendier side of the spectrum, there is milky’s. this spot located on dundas and bathurst is not where you go for a plain-jane cup of caffeine – it’s a more elevated, but still everyday, experience.
the space is bright, with big windows flooding the small cafe with sunlight. there are often interesting figurines and vases decorating the shelves, creating a quirky, yet minimalist aesthetic. the only downside is that this place has almost zero seating – take your coffee to go!
their baked goods are top tier, and you really can’t go wrong with their curated, well thought-out seasonal menu. their flavours are unconventional and there is an obvious craftmanship behind the drinks – they focus on organic, local ingredients. the real star of the show, in my expert opinion, is the The Iced Oat Latte – so popular in fact, that they made a hot version ($6.50). you have to try it to get it!
if you’re looking for a place to get a special, unique coffee that doesn’t feel too gimmicky – this is that.
this beautiful maze of a cafe is a coffee lover’s dream. located on queen st west, cafe 23 is a must-see – whether you’re taking your drink to go or pulling up a chair to sit for a while.
the space is one of the biggest draws of cafe 23. the cafe is decorated with bold art displays, books in every corner, and so, so, so many plants. the cafe is comprised of two large rooms with lots of seating, and a two-tiered outdoor patio in the back, so the odds of getting a table are in your favour (for once).
of all my recommendations, cafe 23 has the widest selection on the menu. despite being such a popular spot, the quality of the coffee here is consistent and reliable. they also have a ton of food options – my favourite is the st viateur bagel with cream cheese.
if you’re looking for a spot to people-watch, work-from-cafe, or dive into a book with a coffee and a treat – this is the spot for you.
laiithy 
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