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Aroma Espresso Bar
Categories: Food Coffee & Tea Food Bakeries Coffee & Tea, Bakeries [Edit]
500 Bloor St WToronto, ON M5S 1Y3
(416) 536-7750
- Hours:
Mon-Fri 7:30 am - 11 pm
Sat-Sun 8 am - 11 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
76 reviews for Aroma Espresso Bar
Review Highlights
"I heard their hot chocolate is really good too."
(in 7 reviews)
"Fresh, crumbly shortbread sandwiched around dulce de leche."
(in 4 reviews)
"The alfajores cookie was pretty interesting."
(in 3 reviews)
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76 reviews in English
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Review from Maheen M.
1/30/2012
My SO and I dropped in at Aroma to get some work done. Our default coffee shop is usually Starbucks but the one on Bloor was packed. We decided to check out Aroma since it was next door.
The atmosphere is an upscale coffee shop with mood lighting. They have an extensive menu where you order various caffeinated beverages as well as something to nosh on. We opted for an americano and brewed coffee for our working session. The coffee was wonderful! I like the fact that they use glass mugs if you are staying in.
The free Wifi was slow but it did was efficient for checking emails.
My recommendation would be to find a seat before you order. The place was packed on a Saturday afternoon with lots of students working away. -
Review from Lisa C.
Toronto, ON
12/6/2011 2 Check-ins Here
Their hot chocolate IS really good! I was told by a colleague to try both this and the almond croissants (almond paste smeared on either a butter or chocolate croissant) and I loved both. Though I wouldn't recommend both at the same time - that might be overkill.
I've also had the Americano. It was unreasonably delicious. And I love the little piece of chocolate on the side.
A word on getting a table: If you have a meeting, I would suggest going a bit early to snag one. This tends to be a very busy spot and they aren't always speedy with clearing tables here. But what they lack in cleanup, they make up for in friendly service!
Happy sipping. -
Review from Mauricio A.
Toronto, ON
11/28/2011
Fun fact, there are some locales in Toronto that I could swear are *cursed.* Not because of some horrible poltergeist or existential issue. No, it is simply because the locale is so poorly located/designed that almost everything that opens hardly gets past the 6 month mark before it goes out of business.
For example, the locale on the northwest corner, west of Bathurst and Bloor. It went from a McDonald's, to being closed for ages, to a Chinese restaurant, to a Latin Bar, then to a Latin/Sports bar to another nameless Asian place to now a Japanese (possibly Fusion) place. There is also another place in Scarborough that has been 5-6 restaurants in about 6 years.
So Aroma was one of those places. There use to be a bar there for ages, and when it went under, the building looked so much like a nondescript office building that anything that went there would have to blow a lot cash in order to have a profitable business. As they would have to change EVERYTHING about the place. That is the only way to break the curse. Stick in very large amounts of cash to remodeled the entire place and hope it pays off in the end.
Well, they did just that and it surely has paid off.
It looks nothing like it did before!
It is a very modern looking cafe, with lots of dark browns, blacks and some nice red accents. This locale has tons of seating and as such it is always packed. They also have free WIFI(!) and it is be the location for my friends and I to chill on a Sunday afternoon while chatting tech & life talk. While warming up on lattes and sharing the funniest video/story of the week on our laptops.
The drinks are good although a bit expensive, however they become irrelevant as the location/decor provide a more than ample place for friends to meet and chat. More so than any snobby, burnt tasting Starbucks.
This location, steps away from a subway station and it's excellent ambiance make it for the place to go when looking for a cafe in the hood. Although it might be a little too low-key for a coffee date, so for that go elsewhere, like Insomnia, across the street. But for a hangout with friends, this is a great place.Listed in: 30 Day Movember '11 Challenge
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Review from Natalie T.
East York, ON
11/20/2011
VIBE
Located in the heart of the Annex, Aroma is packed mainly with students; that said I've seen many a freelancer or old folk on their lap top here. Good luck getting an outlet or some decent lighting, however. I will have to give the award for worst lighting to Aroma, especially the back section of their Annex location. Their Eglinton location is really nice - a bit more spacious than its downtown counterpart. That said, the Annex location has a great patio if you're lounging in the summertime.
I ATE
I've been to Aroma a few times and their quality is top notch for a café. In cold weather, I opt for the hot chocolate. It's one of my favourites. They add real mini chocolate bars in the drink for an extra sugar rush. They also give you a mini chocolate on the side (as with most of their drinks). I like that added touch. Their iced Aroma (light) is always great for a brain freeze (in the best possible of ways). What I really like about Aroma, however, is that they don't skimp on their menu. Their sandwiches are hearty and healthy. I always get their chicken salad or their salmon and cream cheese sandwich. Both will fuel you if you're hanging out for over two hours (yes, guilty!).
OBLIGATORY CATCHY REMARK
Smell the aroma and get over here quick. But if you require some light (and also don't want to go blind) I'd taste test their Eglinton location -
Review from Julie Y.
Toronto, ON
12/11/2011
They have great coffee! For all students, great atmosphere to study and free wifi (remember to ask for the password at the counter), but sometimes it does get a little crowded in the coffee shop, so sometimes no seats are available,
In addition, their food is amazing, must try their chicken sandwich and caesar salad! -
Review from Reynold P.
Toronto, ON
10/14/2011
The aroma at Aroma is wondrous. It's such a comfortable and casual place to have your afternoon fix. This location is big and the layout is spacious. I enjoy sitting at the bar, it makes me feel like I'm important somehow.
The drinks here are good. They make great lattes and cappuccinos. In the summer I had their lemonade with fresh torn mint leaves, it was certainly refreshing and much needed under the weather.
I heard their hot chocolate is really good too. I've seen them prepare it while sitting at the bar. They fit big pieces of chocolate in a cup and pour hot steamy milk right on top. It looks amazzzzzzing (with 6 z's).
Not to mention that you get a small piece of chocolate with every cup of steamy whatever-you-order.
Overall, Aroma is a great place to meet and catch up with friends. It's a casual but sometimes crowded environment. Large windows let you people watch and the patio let's you enjoy the breeze whenever possible.One thing that I almost forgot, there is a fireplace in the back too! So it's great in the winter. -
Review from Jorge L.
8/30/2011 1 Check-in Here
I was here last night and I've always been impressed. This is a better version of Starbucks with more neighbourhood feel (they hire the locals, oy!). The servers are friendlier and the coffee is at par with Starbucks.
Lately, my Starbucks taste bud is dissipating and moving towards to more organic and local coffee.
There is a free wifi inside so do not expect to be seated when school starts - this is like a library with tons of keyboard-pushing students that order one cup of coffee. It can be noisy at the back due to loud music (perhaps to annoy chair hoggers) so make sure that you stay to the front of the cafe.
They serve coffee in mugs and not the environmentally-disastrous coffee cups. Think business class seats on the plane. I am pretentious I know, I still buy Starbucks Americano weekly.
The mini chocolate that comes with your coffee is a nice touch but is generally useless - why do you need chocolate with your coffee?
The price is reasonable, the chairs are comfy and the space is big.
Come here and have battle for your seats. It's worth it.Listed in: Over a Cup Of Coffee
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Review from Eric W.
Toronto, ON
12/5/2011 1 Check-in Here
I like aroma a lot more now that I can get it downtown in the new food market in eaton centre. they make de-lish coffees, the signature aroma coffee is my favorite. it has a chocolote melted in the bottom,, and i usually save that for a after coffee treat, as it heavenly
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Review from Ayesha A.
9/29/2011
This place is always packed, almost none of the outlets work and its loud and kinda filthy....
But I really like it.
I like the staff, although it seems there's a high turnover rate because I never recognize them except the manager.
They're quite friendly, though.
The breakfast salad thing is bad but I love the tea, etc. and the fact that the hot drinks all come with a chocolate totally totally makes it awesome. Even the little water cooler is cute.
The patio, when the weather is nice, is loooooooovely.
And at the end of the day, no matter what, despite the lack of outlets, space and cleanliness, this place is still vastly superior to the two alternatives on the corner: Starbucks and Second Cup.
My vote will always go to Aroma. -
Review from Kathy H.
Mississauga, ON
9/19/2011
BUSY.. came here at 6 or maybe 7? It was full, but luckily we got a table! It was my first time to Aroma (this was a year ago), but I've loved the concept and remained a fan since :)
On that evening though (a year ago), the tables were hardly cleaned... crumbs and empty cups were still there, plus the wrapper of Aroma chocolates. My friend put all of that away for me, thank you thank you.
I've always loved Aroma for serving my cappuccino in their adorable mugs. Their pastries look delicious too. Quick service. Great atmosphere. So 5 stars for them.
Aside from that... this location... was really busy and had diiiirrrrty tables :(
Again, 5 stars for Aroma! but 3 stars for the ewwww table!!!! I didn't come back to this location since that one time, as I live pretty far. -
Review from Rich L.
7/11/2011
By name alone I was expecting your standard fare coffee shop but this has a little HGH thrown in. It has a sizable menu with plenty of option for a good size meal or snack. I went with the small chick pea salad and it was much bigger than I thought.
The wee fee was good speed which was important to me since my smart phone doesn't work here and I was trying to yelp about where I was going to go next.
Nice service, no nonsense, fresh looking bread, and bold coffee. -
Review from Vivian W.
8/23/2011
I love the atmosphere there. I have been to a few different locations so far...Bloor, Donmills and even one in Berlin, Germany.
They have free water which quench your thirst, so you can still enjoy a nice hot coffee even in the hottest day. I also enjoy the personal touch that you get, they ask for your name and gives you a piece of chocolate with your coffee. -
Review from Alex x.
NORTH YORK, ON
5/22/2011
Service was mediocre.
That being said, everything else was good. I enjoyed having my *real* pepper mint tea (with mint leaves) in the patio/terrace area. Perfect for when you've had dinner in one of the restaurants in the Annex and you want to relax and chat for a bit with a couple of friends. Mind you, Bloor W is a little bit noisy, but if you can get past that, this spot is excellent to enjoy some good company on mid-summer nights.
I really recommend finding a table in the patio; good for people-watching and really relaxing! -
Review from Sean W.
Toronto, ON
2/27/2011
Even though they do not have plugs for computers, I still give it five stars and here is why:
- my favorite decor. It looks like the Elephant-era White Stripes opened a coffee shop
- the chocolate that comes with the coffee is a nice touch
- they had free wi-fi while everyone else still made you give a credit card
- There's dudes there now, but there was once a time when it seemed like only cute girls were allowed to work there
- the chicken salad is expensive but worth every penny -
Review from Martin W.
3/8/2011 1 Check-in Here
I really enjoy the food and the service here. I have never been disappointed with either. What I do not like is the prices, they are far too high. A coffee and a sandwich will run you $13. At least that's what I paid today. I bled a little inside when I paid the cashier. That is craziness. Its not like they sprinkled gold flakes on my plate and massaged my feet while I ate (although both would be cool).
I enjoy eating here, but due to high prices only occasionally. -
Review from Jonathan S.
York, ON
3/10/2011
On a Bloor block that's chockablock with coffee shops, Aroma rocks.
OK, enough free styling. A few steps from Bathurst subway station, Aroma offers a unique coffee shop experience to an otherwise well-caffeinated section of the city.
Sandwiches arrive on home-baked bread. The slices are long on area but short on depth, available in white, brown and multigrain. They are politely filled with whatever you desire. Avocados are ripe, boiled egg slices are perfectly creamy, smoked salmon is still slightly chilly. There's a lot of pickled items nestled among the options, and combinations that you won't find at Tim Horton's; an interesting combination of western staples with a middle-eastern twist. Half-portions are available for a light lunch or solid snack. Even the small salads are big enough to share; loaded with fresh veggies and abundant protein. While I rarely crave salad, when the urge strikes, the Aroma salad with tuna and feta cheese gets the job done nicely.
Desserts range from good to awesome. Alfajores combine everything good in the world except chocolate. Fresh, crumbly shortbread sandwiched around dulce de leche. A perfect end to a virtuous lunch, or over coffee if you're one of those people who can't order a cuppa without a little something on the side. Sugar-free baked goods are also available, making this a suitable place to take anyone who watches their carb intake.
Coffee offerings vary from a straightforward cup of medium-strength joe, to fancy lattes, cappuccinos and mochas. A wee bit more expensive than Starbucks, their espresso blend is smoother and packs a less assertive punch with lower acidity. Good enough to drink without sugar, complimented by a free milk chocolate square. To those who would hate on a place that offers free chocolate, you have no soul.
I'm a committed coffee drinker, but even I have to admit my preference for Aroma's non-coffee beverages. Hot chocolate is sweet but rich with real cocoa and dairy. Teas hot and iced blow the big chains out of the water. Mint tea, a proper cluster of vibrant leaves floating in the cup, and a green tea lemonade slush stops conversation cold. We sip in shock and awe.
Ordering is different; you pay at the cash register, then claim your order once it's announced by the Barista over the house mic. I'd be lying if I didn't admit to making up names on occasion. I have yet to receive a Moe Szyzlak-worthy response.
As an aside, I have noticed some trolling regarding this particular chain of cafes, regarding the country in which they are headquartered. I'm not sure how appropriate it is to make political statements in a restaurant review, but since the food system has itself become a bit of a policy hot-button, I shall indulge just this once.
Aroma cafés are franchised. They are owned and operated by local business people.
Targeting Aroma or any other local business for the sake of an ill-informed, hateful campaign because of the background of their corporate parents is like boycotting Mandarin over China's policies regarding Tibet
The current campaign is filled with misrepresentations regarding Israeli defence and human rights policy, and seeks to make a factually inaccurate comparison with other countries. It is intellectually fraudulent and morally bankrupt. Curiously, those who try to launch such ill-advised campaigns seldom show up to protest the actions of other governments against their own citizens, much less a sovereign country's attempt to defend itself against its hostile neighbours.
Engaging in an informed discussion about Israeli (or any other government's) policy is entirely appropriate. Smearing local businesses because of their principals' religious, ethnic, or national background smacks of something else. Attempts to mask a political screed as a weak review speaks to the poster's lack of credibility.
In any case, I know where I'm buying my next latte. Thanks, Junior.Listed in: If I Can't Have My Coffee…
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Review from Tanya N.
4/10/2011 1 photo
This place has plenty of seating so while I've never had an issue finding a seat, I suspect that I've been lucky as this place is steadily busy. This isn't your quiet cafe to study or read but more so a place to catch up with friends.
Service is efficient and they call out your name when your order is ready so you don't have to idly wait around by the counter.
Good coffee and tea. Love the little chocolates they give with every drink order. Note - don't put it too close to your drink or rest it on top of your to go cup because it'll melt.
Their Alfajores cookies (coconut sprinkled sugar cookie sandwich with a dulce de leche spread in the middle) are great - not overwhelmingly sweet.Listed in: For the Love of Lattes
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Review from Josefa M.
Toronto, ON
12/29/2010
Finally! A place that not only serves good coffee (with complimentary, tasty chocolate), but delicious sandwiches and salads.
I do find it very busy most of the time, so on occasion I have had to make my order "take out" because my friends and I couldn't find a place to sit. I am happy they came to Toronto and will continue to enjoy those tasty little cheese danish. -
Review from Vivek S.
11/17/2010 1 Check-in Here
I always brace myself when places ask for my name, as my double-vee'd handle frequently reduces (white) people to incoherent mutters and near-epileptic spasms. So it was a pleasant surprise when Aroma only moderately butchered my name when taking my order. Kudos.
Aroma is an mod corner coffeeshop in the Annex, that's bathed in vermillion and black and mirrors. The friendly service here lacks the hipster-than-thou attitude found in so many of Toronto's independent cafés, and guess what: the coffee is just as good. My espresso was smooth and delicious, and I really dug my croissant.
There is plenty of seating, free wifi (password is printed on the receipt), a spacious patio (that is happenin' in the summer) and odd fireplace "thingy" that I'm sure will prove handy come winter. This place is usually bustling though, so good luck finding a seat.
Obligatory Title Pun: All roads lead to AROMA.
Menu Readability: It was readable, yo.
Need to mention: Every order comes with a cute piece of chocolate.
What this place teaches me about myself: Sometimes I wish my name was as easy as "Bob." (But hardly ever, really.)Listed in: Top Coffee Shops, Toys in the Annex
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Review from geraldine g.
Toronto, ON
3/17/2011
I had wondered about this modern looking corner espresso bar.
From all the reviews I can't really argue about what anyone has to say.
I was pleasantly surprised by of all things, the sandwich that the very helpful customer service person assisted me in picking.
I usually order a coffee at these places to see how much care they put into the basic brew but I was feeling a little adventurous so i ordered an americano. I really shouldn't have but I did. It wasn't anything special. Damn. I really wanted a plain coffee too.
I had the chicken sandwich with arugula, mozzarella, mayo and peppers. Incredible. I haven't had a perfect sandwich in forever. I forgot about my coffee inhaling this meal.
Only thing I had to say going against it was seating. There was seating in the back but it was full at the time I went so I had to wait. Patience is the key you will get seating shortly. I just watched like a hawk for the first person to move. -
Review from Simika K.
8/17/2011
I am SO happy that I found this place! I just moved back to Toronto, and was on the look out for a good study/work place. I had been working from the second cup on University/Richmond which is good but this is a FABULOUS place. First off, the service is awesome - the baristas are all friendly, efficient and nice. Second, the coffee and the food is really good. They have plenty of options for a quick lunch. The ambiance and the layout of the coffee shop is perfect for someone like me. By the looks of the place, it seems to be a popular place. And no wonder: wifi, bold coffee, good food, good service - all in all , a winner! I'll definitely be back! :)
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Review from Danielle F.
Toronto, ON
11/2/2010
Had a chai latte here while catching up with high school bestie. The space is nice and big. Seriously, it goes way further back than one would think, but that's not where the bathrooms are. They lie somewhere is the middle are quite nice.
Ordering in fairly easy and straightforward. I like how they have the descriptions of drinks too so you don't feel like an idiot for asking or simply go with what you know. Since it wasn't very busy when we came in, the whole delivery process wasn't really necessary though I understand how it would be useful on a busy day. You order and then either take your seat or wait by the bar until someone says your name on a headset and speaker system. Then ya pick it up! After a little smell test we were able to figure out whose drink was whose and grab a seat towards the back.
The table had a dirty cup on in but we chose it for it's location by the window and amount of chairs. Heavy into our gossip session a man came around to tidy up and he took it away. He also asked if we still wanted our almost empty cups but I held on, not wanting to miss a drop!
The chai latte had a nice and foamy top with a heart on it! It didn't feel so "large" but it definitely stayed warm and lasted long enough so no complaints! The whole thing was nice, flavourful and milky. I felt truly in for the treat.
And the bonus chocolate! How nice of you, Aroma!Listed in: Coffee n' Treats
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Review from Min min T.
Scarborough, ON
12/29/2010
Aroma is an Israeli-owned chain that has become popular - through word of mouth - since its birth in Toronto. While I had heard many friends raving about this place, when I finally visited, I was still skeptical. Not my first pick for a hang-out, as I'm not a fan of decor here, but there are a few menu choices worth coming back for.
The bread here is baked fresh and offers the perfect texture. My vegetarian sandwich (apologies as I can't remember which I ordered) was oh-so-tasty, down to the last bite. The chickpea and egg salad was simply overwhelming in size, easily feeding a second person. Ingredients were fresh, although the accompanying dressing was plain.
The one thing that really bugs me though is what I've echoed for the Yonge/Eglinton location: the soy chai latte is appalling and a poor excuse for a drink.
Convenient location, but hit and miss on several factors. -
Review from Mariko M.
2/5/2011
Perfect place to sit when waiting for someone!
Came here yesterday because I had to wait for my friend.
There is a lot of seating - in spite of the hustle and bustle, you'll find a place to sit. Aroma Espresso Bar is like the Grand Central Station of coffee shops on Bloor.
I thought the staff were really friendly and they seem to be happy at work. Love that they put your name on the cup and call out your name when the order is ready.
Ordered the Pina Colada tea ... it was g o o o o o o d ! I found the pricing here quite reasonable too. 2.10 for any size of tea. They also have food so if you come in while in starvation mode, don't fret! You will be fed (granted you have the money to pay for it).
The Annex isn't my usual hang out, but I'll be back when I'm in the area next. -
Review from Cyrus B.
Toronto, ON
9/12/2010
A regular haunt of mine. Great chill vibe, friendly fun staff, and the coffee couldn't be better. Food selections are a cut above considering it's just a coffee shop.
Baristas call out your given name on loudspeaker so be sure to come up with a stupid fake name for everyone's amusement.
Free Wi-Fi is a definite crowd draw. Tip: the "linksys" network is actually faster and more reliable than Aroma's network. -
Review from Marie M.
4/20/2011 1 Check-in Here
The Annex is no stranger to coffee shops and cafes as this Aroma location is surrounded by competitors: across the road from it is Second Cup, right next to it on the same side of the street is Starbucks and down the road is the Green Beanry. While I'd had coffee at the said competitors, I must say Aroma stands out the most, although it may not be the best place for an exam cram session.
Unlike it's competitors, right upon entry, Aroma already has a different vibe to it than its competitors, which is probably why it's not a great for studying. It has an edgy, retro yet modern feel, thanks to its red and black interior color scheme, tasteful furnishing with a coolness appeal, and upbeat music at a tolerable volume. In addition to the red and black, the graphics on the walls give the place an artsy fartsy touch... which isn't bad in this case!
In terms of seating, it has alot of seats at the front of the store and the back. The seating area closer to the front is brighter than the area in the back though. The back seating area is dim, so not a good place to read, but definitely a good place to chat with friends because it was definitely louder with more groups than singletons. Aroma also features a patio with red patio chairs, but it was raining today, so no one was out there. We just got rid of snow in Toronto, so the patio also wasn't fully set up.
Aroma features a full menu fixed high on the wall behind the cashier/ coffee bar. Unlike its competitors, it also has a full kitchen where REAL food items are freshly prepared... mostly sandwiches and salads, that type of stuff. The coffee drip is also reasonably priced, more or less similiar to the beverage sizes and prices you will find at Starbucks and Second Cup for a regular drip coffee. (Which is very smart on the business side, levels the playing field). The coffee also comes with a small piece of individually wrapped chocolate with the cafe's name on it. (I saved the chocolate and plan to give it to a family member or co-worker, whoever I see first and if I remember. I'm vegan and can't have the chocolate. The only reason I know that it's milk chocolate is because I asked a girl at the neighbouring table
Overall, although I tried really hard to study and didn't get much done, I still enjoyed my Aroma experience. What I found really cool was that they have a transparent water dispensing machine filled with lemon slices -anyone can help themselves to a cup of water. This cafe is very cute, has a good atmosphere and something different from the typical coffee franchises. The price of coffee is reasonable and priced strategically: for more or less the same price that you will find at Starbucks, why not try a smaller, different and good looking coffee franchise next door? Also, you can get real good that isn't pre-made and shipped from some factory far away. Although I wouldn't come back to study, I wouldn't mind coming back for a date with friends or a cute guy, or to read something that isn't a textbook.
*Hint, hint. Nudge nudge* to guys: Bring your sweetheart here! It's trendy, it's different, it has food, it plays good music, and you won't feel as lame or boring as if you were to say: "Let's go for *insert name of typical/ common coffee franchise*." You might score points for trying... like trying to be original/ different. Effort counts, it really does! -
Review from Jennifer K.
Markham, ON
12/7/2010 2 photos
Aroma Espresso Bar is such a pleasant surprise!
I did not realized that there are so much seatings at the back of the shop! We have no problem securing a table where we sipped on coffee and enjoyed some girly talk on this Sunday evening!
Both our Mocha Coffee and Cappuccino was nicely prepared and of course love that chocolate and the heavy mugs they were served in!
Free Wifi is great idea, it can be a curse for some if all they want is to have a coffee and relax, not trying to find seats where people are parking themselves for hours with their laptops. Aroma Espresso Bar seems to solve this problem with hardly any outlets to juice up your laptops... so did limit those extended hours long stay!
Service here is nice and friendly. Coffee is great. Plentiful Seatings.. I for sure will be coming back! -
Review from Johnathan N.
Brampton, ON
9/9/2010 8 Check-ins Here
Good place for a sandwich and a coffee along this stretch of Bloor.
Aroma's at coffee corners - an intersection with coffee shops on 3 of the four corners, and it's definitely the best of the bunch. Their coffee is well executed (I'm a sucker for Latte art, but it's quite drinkable even after you've ruined their pretty pictures) and their sandwiches are flavourful and fresh.
The place is deceptively large, but terribly organized - cramped near the bar where everyone waits for their orders, a small seating area up front, but then a rear seating area that is actually pretty roomy. Grabbed the table by the back once when a friend was at her wits' end - coffee and sandwiches brought her back around, I just had to sit still and let them do the work.
Quick recos: the avocado sandwich is tasty for veggie types, and their tuna's pretty decent as well. I've never had great luck with their meatier sandwiches but if you're jonesing for protein, hit up the Halumi. Always a good time.
Pro-tip: I know you want the multi-grain hippie bread for your sandwich, but I find the crust on their multi-grain *really* hard - unpleasant for a sandwich. Stick to whole wheat or even (gasp) white.
Extremely pro-tip: try the alfajores. Dunno how authentic they are, but they are delightful, and nowhere near as sweet as you're worried they'll be. Buy one for your date. -
Review from Tina H.
9/27/2010
Nothing in life is free, except the small piece of chocolate that comes with your coffee at Aroma! :o)
Their latte is the perfect temperature--not scalding like Starbucks. The espresso has a really nice flavour.
The alfajores cookie was pretty interesting. The shortbread was really soft and crumbly, and the centre was caramel-like--but having a Spanish-sounding name, I'm going to go with dulce de leche.
The croissants are awful. The plain ones and the chocolate (Nutella?) filled ones.
They have food too. Looks like a pretty big menu compared to other coffee shops. If you're into food and coffee, this place seems like a great place to go. Definitely beats out Dark Horse in the food department, and I would go as far as saying that the coffee is pretty similar too. -
Review from Miry W.
9/19/2010
I travel a lot for work and one of the things that excites me about a new city is checking out the local Aroma Espresso Bar! I've been NYC, Tel Aviv, and Toronto locations. I love Aroma!
The coffee is delicious. Breakfast is awesome. Get the breakfast sandwich or plate with whole wheat bread. If all whole wheat bread tasted like Aroma whole wheat, nobody would want to eat white bread ever again.
I'm definitely going back on my next trip to Toronto -
Review from Will B.
Toronto, ON
8/14/2010
I love this place! If I lived next to this cafe, I'd be spending my mullah on their lattes and mocha coffee! I've also had their chocolate croissant. Very good.. flaky and buttery just how I like my croissant! And that lil dark chocolate they give you with your drink... mmmmmmm.... yum-y!
My only problem with this place is sitting. Gets a little crowded with people taking up booths to spread their text books around to study. *sigh* -
Review from Kat F.
Updated - 1/23/2010 1 photo
OK, reality check.
Pain au chocolat should never, ever be filled with Nutella. And at Aroma, it is. I ordered the chocolate croissant and while the pastry part was sufficiently flaky and buttery, the filling (typically solid, slightly melty chocolate - http://en.wikipedia.or...) oozed out like one of those rude cherry blossoms that nobody in their right mind would ever buy.
Nothing wrong with Nutella, but it has no place in a chocolate croissant. A shameful offering.Listed in: Best Hot Chocolate In Toronto
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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3/25/2009
I'm not a coffee drinker but I consider myself a hardcore hot chocolate enthusiast, and I'm happy to… Read more »
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Review from Malaise L.
6/8/2011 1 photo
We went there about a month ago and got some croissants (amazingly good) and coffee (good) to go. Then last night, about 20 minutes to closing, we went in for late, late dinner. Owning a cafe mysef I felt a little guilty going in so late. If they were annoyed, the surely did not let on. They were fun and courteous and fast. My husband got a tuna salad half sandwhich and I had an avocado sandwhich, sans the hard boiled egg. Both on multigrain bread. My husband liked his sandwhich as I did mine. What would have made it better would have been if the bread had been toasted but even cold it was good bread. The size was *huge* and I thought maybe I would've been better off with half as well but in the end ate it all, of course (yes, I'm a pig).
About 2 minutes before closing a couple came in and started looking at the menu. They were still looking when it was announced that the kitchen was now closed. Their order was taken and when they (the couple) expressed concerns about being in the way the employees assured them that it was no problem. I was very impressed by their professionalism.
I'll definitely be back. I think I'll grab myself another avocado sandwhich and some more coffee on my way out of Toronto tomorrow. -
Review from Poof A.
9/26/2010
I spent way too much time in coffeeshops during my last trip to my hometown, and Aroma was frequently among them.
Location is definitely one reason- across from a Starbucks and a Second Cup, this place easily beats both. The large drinks come in huuuge indulgent mugs and the coffee is consistently good. The croissants leave something to be desired, but the alfajores are awesome. It's a big space so you shouldn't have too much trouble finding seating, especially when the patio is open -
Review from Real B.
Toronto, ON
7/9/2011
Pretty good. Quick service. Delish enough food. Good combo options. I wish it was around when I lived in the annex!
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Review from Bijan V.
3/29/2009 3 Check-ins Here
Now this is what you call a Coffee shop! okay fine "Espresso Bar" whatever. Really really good coffee (try the Aroma Mocha coffee mmm..) and I'm not a big chocolate fan but the piece that comes with the drinks just tasted so good!
My only complaint is they need to clear tables much more often given how busy the place is; there's trays and empty cups all over the place. But who cares, Aroma is exactly what I look for in a fancy coffee place and it's not even that expensive.
Overall a great place to sit down with someone and have a chat over some coffee and free Wifi. -
Review from Jonathan W.
Calgary, AB
12/30/2009
This place seems to get a lot of hype. It is an attractive space and location. A great coffee place with a few problems.
The coffee, expresso, latte, hot chocolate, pretty solid. The croissants were also top notch. No complaints here. Reasonable prices and better than their Starbucks, Second cup competition.
As far space - packed and lacking cleanliness. The place is unfortunately stuck between a quick-stop or a sit-down coffee/cafe. The front cash is a cramped corridor and has a few standing/stools along the windows. In back, they have several round tables with very comfy lounge type chairs. Perfect for grabbing a seat, working on your laptop and sipping. But....
1) the wall plugs are capped to discourage campers. (I can agree with this except that it would be more effective if they just limited the wi-fi duration to say 2 hours? with purchase a la Starbucks)
2) the tables and chairs are left in shambles, crumbs, old dishes, which they have a person rounding to collect and clean, but can't keep up given the traffic
3) the bathrooms are a mess, toilets not working, bad odors.
If you're gonna be a high volume coffee shop, you have to keep pace, ensure the place is clean and bathrooms in working order. Uncap the plugs and upgrade your wi-fi to limit access, that way you discourage leachers and not all your customers. -
Review from Melanie C.
Oakville, ON
6/17/2009
We thought we were just going to Aroma for their coffee, but ended up ordering lunch. My sandwich was delicious! I didn't expect such goodness from a place that mainly specializes in coffee.
Coffee was perfect - very fresh, smooth and the right boldness. The little treat that comes with the coffee is a nice touch.
I couldn't resist getting dessert after lunch. I ordered a simple brownie from the counter, which I thought just had to be placed onto a plate for me. To my surprise, Aroma goes that extra step and warms it for you. It melts in your mouth. We only got one to share and were fighting over the last bite.
It can get busy, so expect a wait if you go during peak hours. Also, the tables fill up quickly so come early if you would like a seat. Most customers seem to hang around for a while. -
Review from Emily C.
Toronto, ON
8/13/2010
Aroma, Aroma, Aroma. I should give you three stars but since I like you so much I'll give you four.
Why should I give you three stars? Well, the coffee isn't that good and the music is just... well... awful. On a good day they're playing elevator music, on a bad day they're playing Ace of Base. Now, that's not to say I don't love Ace of Base (I'm a child of the 90s after all) but when you want to study, it's really hard to concentrate when all you can do is think about that time you were 9 and preoccupied with choreographing a dance to "All That She Wants" in your bedroom. The terrible thing is that I'll never know when it will be a good day (elevator music) or a bad day (90s pop).
Despite all of this, I still love you Aroma, though part of me feels like I've been suckered into it.
The staff there are usually very friendly. They try their best to get to know your name (which is easy, I guess, if you're a regular).
Helpful hints: bring ear plugs if you want to concentrate and get work done, order an Americano over their drip coffee, and always, always, always take the free chocolate they offer (why do some people refuse? CRAZINESS). -
Review from Maureen P.
Toronto, ON
6/28/2009
I've only been here once and I've only tried one thing from Aroma's menu. So I'm going to make this short and sweet (like me!)...
**Probably the best latte I've ever had!** Oooh and it comes with a cute little chocolate treat. Now, how awesome is that?! Very!
