5 best coffee shops in Toronto based on Google reviews

Oct 20 2020, 7:23 pm

Aromas of freshly brewed coffee, the chatter of friends catching up, and menus filled with scrumptious delights are among the things we associate with Toronto cafes.

But these coffee shops are more than places to get our caffeine fix; they’re an integral part of our small business community. Aside from adding a sense of vitality to our local neighbourhoods, they’re places that have gradually become a part of our lifestyles.

Cafes in Toronto and across the country are battling the challenges of the pandemic as they arise, and they need our support more than ever. From October 18 to 24, Small Business Week is taking place in Canada, and with it comes the perfect opportunity to support local.

Since it’s tough to narrow down the top spots among our city’s food scene, we’ve rounded up the five best cafes based on Google reviews.

Dineen Coffee Co.

 

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Since opening its doors in 2013, Dineen Coffee Co. has established itself as a true cornerstone of the city. Once a fur factory, its first-ever location is a Toronto heritage site that features high ceilings, chandeliers, and pattern-adorned tile floors for an old school brasserie feel. This coffee shop staple has since expanded and boasts two additional spots where locals can count on delicious signature blends, herbal teas, iced mochas, and espressos. Not to mention, there’s an array of freshly baked goods, pastries, and handmade French baguette sandwiches that will instantly transport you to your happy place.

Google Review: “Excellent atmosphere, great service and utterly fantastic vanilla latte.”

Address: 140 Yonge Street
Phone: 416-900-0949

Address: 199 Bay Street
Phone: 416-900-0952

Address: 1042 Gerrard Street East
Phone: 416-924-7515

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Quantum Coffee

 

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Situated at the intersection of King and Spadina, we can hardly think of a better spot to take in the hustle and bustle of downtown — a stellar view of the CN Tower notwithstanding. While you might come for the scenery, it’s the coffee that will make you stay. Born out of a passion for connecting people and ideas, Quantum offers a curated selection of single-origin beans from some of the most renowned coffee makers around the world; think carefully crafted lattes, flaky pastries, and crumbly scones.

Google Review: “Delicious coffee. And the space is even more amazing. Love the work area, coffee station and the patio!”

Address: 460 King Street West
Phone: 647-494-4429

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NEO COFFEE BAR

 

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This Japanese cafe is among the most serene local spots around. Whether you’re looking for a standard brew or looking to try something new, anything you order will reliably be beautifully made — from latte art to handcrafted roll cakes. At NEO, you’ll find all the standard fare, as well as Japanese specialties like matcha lattes, Genmaicha lattes, hojicha tea, shiitake chawanmushi quiche, and matcha white chocolate cookies. As the seasons change, so does the menu — which means you’ll find plenty of fall-inspired fare like apple cider, pumpkin spice lattes, butternut squash moon tarts, and Shingen cream tarts.

Google Review: “Stylish and hand crafted cafe! Always pleasure to stop by and enjoy their creations! Love the Japanese twist with whatever they make!”

Address: 161 Frederick Street
Phone: 647-348-8811

Address: 770 Bay Street
Phone: 647-345-0770

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Rooster Coffee House

 

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This beloved cafe serves up a line of award-winning single-origin coffee from around the world — and always with a smile. Plus, with three locations across the city, there’s likely always once close by. Here, you’ll find seasonal roasts that consistently hit the spot and the most dedicated coffee lovers on the other side of the counter. You can also recreate the experience from home with Rooster coffee beans, grounds, and even the best coffee accessories to be sure it’s spot on.

Google Review: “Exceptional service by the barista. I had a turmeric apple cider that was definitely amazing. He added cinnamon to mine and made sure I liked it after too. It’s those small thoughtful things that make all the difference. Large selection of gluten free/vegan treats compared to a lot of cafes.”

Address: 479 Broadview Avenue
Address: 343 King Street East
Address: 568 Jarvis Street

Phone: 416-995-1530

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HotBlack Coffee

 

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Taking into consideration its world-class coffee, innovative drinks, and award-winning baristas, we think it’s fair to say HotBlack Coffee isn’t serving up your standard cup of joe. Between its reverse osmosis water filtration system, carefully ground and measured drinks, and expertly sourced beans, the coffee here has been nailed down to a science. You can sip on all your favourite classics, like cappuccinos, cortados, and chai lattes. Applying the same level of precision to their food offering, you’ll find all-natural and daily made food, such as Power Bowls, ginger molasses cookies, and pecan butter squares.

Google Review: “Cute little opening display to order from. Miss being inside but their coffee quality, especially their cappuccino hasn’t changed one bit!”

Address: 245 Queen Street West
Phone: 416-840-6141

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Whether you’re already a fan of one (or more) of the aforementioned cafes or if you’re eager to sample their menu offerings soon, showing some love with a Google review of your experience goes a long way for the owners — and fellow Torontonians.

In 2019, a BrightLocal survey reported that 91% of consumers say positive reviews make them more likely to use a business. And by adding a detailed description of the service, photos of the food, or a quick star rating, you’re also doing a good deed for local businesses at a time when it’s needed most.

To learn more about how to give and get help as a consumer or business owner during Small Business Week and beyond, check out smallbusiness.withgoogle.com.

Note, this list does not include chains and only includes businesses that have a verified Business Profile on Google.

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