The 14 Best Coffee Shops in Toronto [2023]

  • Last updated: July 13, 2023

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Toronto is a bustling metropolis that is home to an incredible coffee culture. Whether you are a coffee aficionado, a casual sipper, or a visitor to the city, there is no shortage of amazing coffee shops to choose from. From trendy cafes to cozy hideaways, Toronto’s coffee scene is a vibrant and diverse tapestry that reflects the city’s multiculturalism and love for all things caffeinated. In this article, we will explore some of the best coffee shops in Toronto, where you can find exceptional brews, delicious pastries, and cozy atmospheres that will keep you coming back for more. 

Summary

How We Chose Our Top Coffee Shops

Toronto is a city with vibrant coffee culture and it should come as no surprise that there are hundreds of independent cafes, each with its own brand of caffeine magic. If you’re interested in learning how we selected these shops, consider reading our article on how we select the best businesses in Toronto.

What type of coffee do Canadians drink?

Canadians have a diverse coffee culture and enjoy a wide range of coffee beverages. Some popular coffee choices in Canada include:

Drip Coffee: Drip coffee is a staple for many Canadians. It is typically made with a medium to dark roast and enjoyed with or without milk and sugar.

Espresso-based Drinks: Canadians also enjoy a variety of espresso-based beverages such as lattes, cappuccinos, and Americanos. These drinks are commonly found in coffee shops and offer a rich and flavorful coffee experience.

Iced Coffee: With warm summers, iced coffee is a popular choice among Canadians to cool down and enjoy a refreshing caffeine boost. It can be served with milk, sweetened, or flavored with syrups.

Specialty Coffees: Canadians have embraced the specialty coffee trend, with an increasing interest in single-origin beans, artisanal roasts, and brewing methods such as pour-over, French press, and cold brew.

Flavored Coffees: Flavored coffees, such as French vanilla, hazelnut, or caramel, are also well-liked by Canadians, adding a touch of sweetness and aroma to their coffee experience.

It’s important to note that coffee preferences can vary among individuals, and Canadians have their own unique tastes and preferences when it comes to coffee.

The Best Coffee Shops in Toronto

Now that you know how we chose our top coffee shops, let’s take a look at 13 of the best places to visit in Toronto!

1. Fahrenheit Cafe

 
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Fahrenheit Coffee has been voted the best specialty coffee house in Toronto year after year. They offer three different espresso origins which rotate seasonally, making sure that their customers always have something new and exciting to try.

Their drinks are expertly crafted and our personal favourite is the Cortado – a delicious mix of espresso and steamed milk!
What’s more, the staff are always friendly and willing to accommodate orders – ensuring that everyone leaves satisfied with their experience. If you’re looking for something deliciously smooth, then look no further than Fahrenheit Cafe!

Business Information:

Address: 120 Lombard St, Toronto, ON M5C 3H5
Phone: (647) 896-1774
Website: fahrenheitcoffee.com

Customer Review Highlight:

Lovely cafe with great coffee. Coffees with multiple orgins available. The place is small though. Therefore due to covid restrictions they have limited entry to 3 customers per time. So you may encounter a wait. Great snacks as well.
"One of Toronto’s best coffee spots. I go each week to pick up coffee beans and delicious pastry (chocolate croissant is delicious)!"

2. Versus Coffee

Versus distinguished itself mainly by having a unique interior design and a beautiful patio that could accommodate over 40 people – making it perfect for gatherings or just enjoying your favourite drink with friends!

They strongly value the sense of community and believe in supporting local businesses. To achieve this, they partner with local roasters and suppliers – ensuring that their business helps to support others in the community as well. What’s not to love?
Plus, their latte art is beautiful – just take a look at their Instagram page for proof! Their coffees are aromatic and taste amazing, plus customers love the food served here too – especially the avocado toast! The avocado comes on rye bread with goat cheese, chilli flakes and olive oil making it an irresistible dish.

Business Information:

Address: 70 Adelaide St E, Toronto, ON M5C 2R6
Phone: (647) 987-5470
Website: versuscoffeebar.com

Customer Review Highlight:

"Amazing cafe, great bakery (love butter croissant) snd their colourful late. They have lactose free milk which was amazing for our allergy. Definitely recommend this beautiful coffee shop"
"Absolutely love this spot. It’s always good & the staff is friendly and efficient. Their avocado toasts never disappoint and I went for the breakfast sandwich this time and it was fresh to order & delicious! Coffee is slightly overpriced but that’s Toronto for you! Highly recommend and cute little patio to boot. "

3. HotBlack Coffee

Led by Momi, a National competition barista. HotBlack Coffee’s mission is to provide consistently world-class coffee and innovative drinks. All natural and prepared daily from scratch with fresh seasonal ingredients – their food is simply great!
Not only do they have some of the best coffee in the country, but their food menu offers something for everyone – ensuring that you’ll never get bored of eating here!
With friendly service and great vibes make HotBlack Coffee a favourite among customers, who come back time and time again for the amazing food made in-house as well as rich coffees with unique flavours. The ginger brew latte is definitely one of our personal favourites – it’s perfect when you’re looking to warm up!

Business Information:

Address: 245 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M5V 1Z4
Phone: (416) 840-6141
Website: hotblack-coffee.com

Customer Review Highlight:

"This has quickly become my go to destination for coffee meetings. Very friendly staff, quick service, affordable goodies, and wide range of coffee specialties—you can’t go wrong here. The patio out back is particularly quaint, almost Old Town Montreal vibes."
"Busy coffee shop with unique drink options. They have nailed their flavour profiles. Tried a ginger infused coffee - amazing. Cappuccino is on point. Would recommend for all coffee lovers."

4. Strange Love Coffee

If you’re looking for a cozy and relaxed coffee shop experience, then Strange Love Coffee in Toronto is the perfect destination. With its easygoing vibe and specialty drinks, this coffee shop has become a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike.

At Strange Love Coffee, you can enjoy a wide variety of coffee and tea beverages, including espresso drinks, pour-overs, and tea lattes. But what really sets this coffee shop apart are the optional boosts that you can add to your drink, such as collagen or mushroom powder. These unique additions make for a truly personalized and health-conscious coffee experience.

But the drinks aren’t the only draw at Strange Love Coffee. The shop also offers a selection of baked goods, including croissants, muffins, and cookies, which are perfect for a quick snack or breakfast on-the-go. If you’re in the mood for something a little different, Strange Love Coffee is definitely worth checking out.

Business Information:

Address: 101 Spadina Ave., Toronto, ON M5V 2K2
Website: strangelovecafe.com
Phone: +18334451837

Customer Review Highlight:

“Truly a difference in a coffee shot. Unique ambiance along with the usual coffee house experience it offers a mood enhanced never before seen but well done. Indoor social spacing allows group gatherings. Coffee and hot chocolate were delicious and service top notch.”
“We were just visiting from the USA, but we loved this place! I had the Lovers Latte and it was excellent. The milk was so silky smooth and the espresso was great. My boyfriend got a tea latte that he actually really enjoyed as well. We went back the next day too!”

5. Tandem Coffee

This shop is lively and the staff love to help out customers. Tandem Coffee is a charming coffee shop that provides artisanal beverages. This vintage-style shop is a great place to get some great food and drinks – especially their iced sesame lattes!

The flavour of black sesame and espresso works very well, making it at the perfect sweetness level for all kinds of people. Customers have loved pairing their drinks with the delicious pastries in store, like the almond croissant which is both flakey and moist – perfect for those who are always on-the-go!

Plus, the store offers a variety of unique items like vintage toys, cameras and vinyl discs – perfect for those who appreciate nostalgia! If you’re on the east end, then be sure to check this place out!

Business Information:

Address: 368 King St E, Toronto, ON M5A 1K9
Website: tandemcoffee.ca

Customer Review Highlight:

"Love the ambience, super friendly service by the owners, and the awesome ice drip that I had. Very interesting spot with unique interior filled with some vintage items for sale. Next time would love to try the pastries. Arigato"
"Tandem Coffee is so warm in the best of ways! Such a cozy place to warm up and enjoy a artfully made drink. My first experience there was so lovely, the owners care so much about service and making all guests feel comfy and welcome in the space. Will absolutely be returning for more AMAZING drinks:"

6. Boxcar Social

This place is not just a coffee shop but also a wine bar. Boxcar Special has an amazing selection of Ethiopian and Columbian beans, making it the perfect spot for any coffee lover.

With plenty of space to relax, this shop provides the perfect atmosphere for sipping some coffee and enjoying one of their delicious pastries. However, be sure to come early because they tend to run out of good selections pretty quickly!

If you’re looking for something a little more upscale then look no further than Boxcar Social – they have a great menu of food and drinks to choose from at prices that won’t break the bank.

You can’t go wrong with any choice here, plus they also have a nice patio for outdoor seating which makes it ideal weather permitting!

Business Information:

Address: 1210 Yonge St, Toronto, ON M4T 1W1
Phone: +1 844-726-9227
Website: boxcarsocial.ca

Customer Review Highlight:

"My new favorite working spot! This place is so nicely decorated, it feels like home. Prices are fair and the quality of the drinks is amazing. I had the chai latte and a hot chocolate -- easily one of the BEST hot chocs I've ever had. The patio is quite nice as well so you should definitely use that if the weather allows. Pet friendly, perfect music selection... this place has everything and I'm in love!"
"I truly loved this place. Staff was very polite and respectful. Drinks were amazing. They also serve alcohol which is great. Atmosphere was incredibly nostalgic. I couldn't get enough of this place. This place is going on my schedule to visit every week."

7. Moon Bean Coffee Company

Moon Bean Coffee Company is a specialty coffee shop that uses fair-trade coffee beans. They opened their doors in 1995 with the goal of making excellent coffee for all to enjoy.
You have your choice of coffees, which come from single origins or specially created blends – but this shop isn’t only known for its coffee! They also have an impressive 40 tea options to choose from.

Feeling a little peckish? No problem – Moon Bean has you covered with their in-house baked goods that are available in vegan options too! Plus, if the weather’s nice then why not take advantage of their open patio and enjoy your coffee with friends?

Business Information:

Address: 30 St Andrew St, Toronto, ON M5T 1K6
Phone: (416) 595-0327
Website: moonbeancoffee.com

Customer Review Highlight:

"Really nice, cozy place with friendly staff. Also, at least when I was there, they weren't playing music which made it really nice for reading, unlike many other coffee shops which play it, and far too loud. Great cappuccino too"
"This is my fave coffee shop in and out of Kensington. I live 25 min drive and I come here just to get their lattes. They also have super delicious deserts. Can't wait for this to reopen so I can come enjoy my coffee with cake on their patio."

8. Ezra’s Pound

Ezra’s Pound is all about sustainability. They use only sustainably grown coffee beans, which are also organic. Their main goal is to make good coffee and create less waste for the environment – that’s why they use biodegradable cups to serve their coffee in!
Not only does this shop strive to be environmentally friendly, but they also use high-quality ingredients to give customers the best experience with their drinks. Their coffee-based drinks are well known in the community, but they also have a variety of tea options that customers love too!
The coffee here is in a league of its own, and this may be because of the passionate employees who love delivering the best cup possible every time.

Business Information:

Address: 238 Dupont St, Toronto, ON M5R 1V7
Phone: (416) 929-4400
Website: ezraspound.com

Customer Review Highlight:

"The interior is clean, tastefully decorated with plenty of seating. The menu offers a good selection of standard cafe fare for average prices. The espresso is potent and full bodied. The staff is friendly and the wait is reasonable."
- Bianca Devins
"Cozy interior, high quality coffee and a small menu of organic foods freshly made to order. The staff seem very sincere and friendly. They also sell bags of coffee to take home, bit I haven't tried it."
- Sam Bentley

9. Dineen Coffee

Dineen Coffee is a boutique coffee house found in the historical location of Toronto listed as a Heritage property. In addition to their amazing coffee, they can offer catering services within 24 hours!
They have a lot of specialty blends to choose from and cold drinks like iced mochas, teas, and lattes. A favourite here is the vanilla latte which comes with added vanilla syrup for sweetness. For food, we highly recommend the pistachio croissant which always gets repeat customers!
This coffee shop has an incredible atmosphere with beautiful decor – it’s definitely worth checking out!

Business Information:

Address: 140 Yonge St, Toronto, ON M5C 1X6
Phone: (416) 900-0949
Website: dineencoffee.com

Customer Review Highlight:

"Really delicious coffee in a fantastic converted historical space. There is even a tiny antique grated elevator with such intricate design. They've left some of the original features in the space, including the raw brick wall, the tiny balcony above the coffee bar, the original pillars and the giant ironworks door set into the brick. Very cool. Will be busy, but quite a bit of seating space inside and out."
- Jordan Jones
"Not as expensive as it looks! Atmosphere is fantastic and the drinks are delicious. Dineen's is usually busy but there is inside and outdoor seating. Best London fog I've ever had."
- Valerie

10. The Library Speciality Coffee

The Library Specialty Coffee is a new Australian-based coffee shop that opened in 2018. They focus on their espresso-based coffee, making it the perfect place for picky coffee drinkers.
If you’re looking to buy some smooth blends, The Library Speciality Coffee offers choices from around the world. A favourite here is the Matcha Latte – a rich, slightly bitter drink with creamy latte art and comes in vivid green colour.

If you’re looking for a snack this shop also sells a small selection of pastries to choose from!

Business Information:

Address: 281 Dundas St W, Toronto, ON M5T 1G1
Phone: (647) 350-8839
Website: thelibraryspecialtycoffee.com

Customer Review Highlight:

Their coffees are truly extraordinary. Really. Didn’t expect to find coffee that could taste delicate and rich at the same time. If you love specialty coffee, and are looking to try new flavours, this is your place. Loved their pour over coffee!"
"This place is truly a hidden gem in downtown - amazing coffee and quick and efficient service. My go-to is their iced lattes with a bit of simple syrup. So creamy and the espresso is perfect."

11. Jimmy’s Coffee

Jimmy’s Coffee is all about making sure their customers are happy. This shop opened up in 2009 and has been serving the best Americano around ever since.
They offer a lot of cold brew options to choose from, ensuring that everyone can find something they like. Plus, Jimmy’s always serves fresh high-quality coffee with a friendly smile – you can’t get much better than that!
If you’re looking for unique drinks then this cozy shop is definitely the place for you – their coffee is roasted in a traditional Italian style by baristas with years of experience, meaning you’ll be able to taste the difference.
So if you’re looking for somewhere cool to hang out during summertime then make your way over to Jimmy’s Coffee!

Business Information:

Address: 191 Baldwin St, Toronto, ON M5T 1M1
Phone: (647) 352-5466
Website: jimmyscoffee.ca

Customer Review Highlight:

"Jimmy's coffee is just so amazing. Kensington location holds a special place in my heart; the first one I ever visited. The staff are so kind and the food & coffee is so good, literally anything you pick is gonna be really damn good don't worry"
"The staff is always friendly when I come to this Jimmy's. Friendly and efficient! I have a bit of an obsession with the americano at Jimmy's. Something about it is just so comforting. The cold brew is also AMAZING on a hot summer day. I always make sure to recommend it to people. Keep up the great work! "

12. Rooster Coffee House

If you’re looking for a great cup of coffee and some delicious baked goods, then Rooster Coffee House is the place to go. Offering espresso drinks and pastries in an industrial space with huge windows, this cafe is perfect for anyone who wants to relax and enjoy their food in a comfortable setting.
What’s more is that they also sell wellness drinks infused with plenty of vitamins, making Rooster Coffee House the perfect place for anyone who wants to try something new. We highly recommend you try their matcha latte – it’s the specialty of the house!
Plus, the seating loft provides plenty of room for customers to spread out and get lost in their thoughts while they drink their morning brew.

Business Information:

Address: 479 Broadview Ave, Toronto, ON M4K 2N4
Phone: (647) 530-4779
Website: roostercoffeehouse.com

Customer Review Highlight:

"Such a cute and chic coffee shop. I really love the interior design and rustic decors. A convenient location for those who go for morning walks and need a daily dose of caffeine. It’s right across Riverdale Park so, you can grab a coffee or a pastry and walk over and enjoy the Toronto skyline! I highly recommend the cappuccino."
"Cutest coffee shop in the Riverdale neighborhood! They have a little patio seating in front for those who wanna chit chat outside with friends or family. I love getting my chai tea latte here and service is always great. They always make my drinks perfectly and I never have to wait long."

13. Mos Mos

Mos Mos is a coffee shop that uses an international blend of coffee to serve its customers. Every cup is smooth and contains a lot of flavours – making it the perfect choice for anyone looking for something new and exciting.
Opened in 2014, this shop has become well known for its global coffee selection. Whether you’re interested in trying blends from Kenya, Australia or India, they have something here for everyone to enjoy!
They make sure their customers fall in love with the coffee served here – with my personal favourite being the White Lao. This drink is aromatic, sweet and provides plenty of energy thanks to its strong coffee flavour!

Business Information:

Address: 655 Bay St., Toronto, ON M5G 2K4
Phone: (647) 800-9726
Website: mosmoscoffee.com

Customer Review Highlight:

"Quaint unique concept, using individualized stickers to ensure your order is accurate; excellent tasting coffees and the like...add to that.. great customer service, and you have a positively definite recommendation!"
"This place has become one of my favorite coffee shop. And I don't even like coffee that much. Friendly staff. Well knowledge. And nice matcha options, though, not all locations have the same menu. My favorite location is in the PATH under the CIBC building."

14. 5 Elements Espresso Bar

At 5 Elements Espresso Bar, coffee is not just a beverage; it’s an art form. 

From the moment you step inside, the tantalizing aroma of freshly roasted beans will captivate your senses. The dedicated baristas take pride in selecting premium, ethically sourced beans, ensuring that each cup of coffee is a masterpiece in its own right. 

We recommend 5 Elements Espresso Bar for when you are looking for a spacious shop with plenty of seating options to study, or a cozy patio to chat over coffee with friends.

Whether you prefer a rich and bold espresso or a velvety smooth latte, the  environment, expertise, and attention to detail that 5 Elements Espresso Bar offers will guarantee a truly remarkable coffee experience.

Business Information:

Address: 131 Avenue Rd, Toronto, ON M5R 2H7
Phone: (647) 352-5330
Website: Instagram

Customer Review Highlight:

"Quaint unique concept, using individualized stickers to ensure your order is accurate; excellent tasting coffees and the like...add to that.. great customer service, and you have a positively definite recommendation!"
"This place has become one of my favorite coffee shop. And I don't even like coffee that much. Friendly staff. Well knowledge. And nice matcha options, though, not all locations have the same menu. My favorite location is in the PATH under the CIBC building."

FAQs About Coffee Shops

Espresso is a concentrated coffee beverage made by forcing hot water through finely ground coffee beans at high pressure. Drip coffee, on the other hand, is made by slowly pouring hot water over coarsely ground coffee beans, which then drips through a filter into a carafe. Espresso is typically stronger and more concentrated than drip coffee, and it’s often used as the base for other coffee drinks like lattes and cappuccinos.
To keep coffee beans fresh, it’s important to store them in an airtight container away from light, heat, and moisture. You can also consider storing them in the freezer, but make sure they’re in an airtight container to prevent moisture from getting in. Avoid storing coffee beans in the fridge, as the moisture and odors can affect the flavor.
Cold brew is a specific way of making coffee. It’s made by steeping coarsely ground beans in cold water for extended periods of time – usually between 12 and 24 hours. The result is a highly caffeinated concentrate that can be easily mixed with water or milk to create an iced coffee!
Arabica coffee is known to have significantly less caffeine content than Robusta coffee. This is why Arabica beans are often used in specialty shops – they carry a much lighter caffeine punch!

Conclusion

Toronto is a coffee lover’s paradise, with dozens of amazing cafes serving up some of the best brews in the world. From small independents to large chains, there’s something for everyone when it comes to coffee shops in Toronto.

To help you narrow down your options, we’ve put together a list of the 14 best coffee shops in Toronto. Whether you’re looking for an afternoon pick-me-up or a place to work on your laptop, these spots don’t disappoint. So go ahead and indulge – Torontonians know how to do caffeine right!

For other places with great drinks in Toronto, check out these posts:

The Best Bubble Tea Shops in Toronto
The Best Green Juice Brands in Toronto
The Best Afternoon Tea Places in Toronto

Moru Li

Moru Li

Meet Moru, a talented marketing manager who has called Toronto home for over a decade and truly adores the city. Learn More About Moru

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