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Balzac's Coffee Roastery
Categories: Food Coffee & Tea Event Planning & Services Venues & Event Spaces Coffee & Tea, Venues & Event Spaces [Edit]
55 Mill StBldg 60
Toronto, ON M5A 3C4
Neighbourhoods: Distillery District, West Don Lands
(416) 207-1709
- Hours:
Mon 7 am - 7 pm
Tue-Sat 7 am - 8 pm
Sun 8 am - 7 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Private Lot
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
57 reviews for Balzac's Coffee Roastery
Review Highlights
"Delicious latte is all I can say really."
(in 14 reviews)
"Maple syrup latte; delicious."
(in 3 reviews)
"There's a massive chandelier and big wooden doors."
(in 6 reviews)
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57 reviews in English
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Review from Jewel Y.
8/27/2011
Finding Balzac Coffee Roastery was another pleasant surprise, Toronto definitely has a great cafe scene for sure! After not so impressive organic cappuccino at nearby Livia, I decided to throw it away and buy another coffee at Balzac Coffee. I loved the shabby chic decor, I love this type of beautiful retro coffee house!! If you are going to have a cup of coffee, you might as well have it in a classy environment like this!! And most importantly, the quality of coffee was excellent, strong and flavorful!!
In summary: Good coffee, reasonable price, friendly staff, and beautiful ambiance. A must- visit if you are in the artsy Distillery district!Listed in: Toronto
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Review from Elvis A.
The setup is gorgeous for this cafe. Old historic building with a super high ceiling and the rustic furniture make for a nice ambiance.
I ordered a double shot cappuccino and requested I be allowed to take my mug out as I was planning to enjoy it with a cigar on a nice day like today.
Kudos for the staff to accommodate that. I asked my drink have sweetener added in first no problems there.
They had a mix up though and made my drink in a to go cup. I guess it was due to them training a new person, no problem I was offered a new drink.
The drink itself was OK. No latte art to speak off (maybe due to someone new under training) The espresso shot itself was decent and was somewhat mellow. 2.5 Stars and if you add half a star for the ambiance I would bump it up to 3.
Something that needs to be rectified there is no WiFi!! -
Review from Nicole H.
Toronto, ON
10/20/2011 1 Check-in Here
I'm a bit torn about Balzac's - which is why i'm running with the middle-of-the-line 3 stars. I'd like to give it more! Because despite the lovely Distillery District setting, the wonderful & kitschy/retro coffee related decor and just how welcoming the cafe is in general, I feel the coffee itself isn't up to scratch.
I thought getting a latte in a big ol' bowl would be super exciting, but in the end it was a bit sad - too much milk, not steamed super well, and the coffee's flavour ended up just being an afterthought amongst it all. So it could be super! I'll have to go with something smaller and more likely to let me actually taste the espresso next time, I guess. But I should reasonably be able to get a latte I can enjoy.
I'd like to go back and give Balzac's another go, because it seems like they could be great, as they are already now a nice spot to stop while you wander the area. For now, though, they're just okay in my books. -
Review from Juliana H.
Toronto, ON
10/17/2011
Great coffee, beautiful building, bad lay out. Having previously lived in the Distillery, this was my go-to caffeine joint. During the summer if you go early enough, it is great to sit outside on their patio. If it's too cold, it's cozy on the mezzanine overlooking the first floor. Second choice is the top floor proper. Lastly, the ground floor. This brings me to the lay out problem.
Because Balzac's is in a tourist attraction, it gets very busy. The lines pose a problem because they obstruct one's pathway to pick up a beverage from the barista and to access the cream, sugar, and lids station. If you are sitting at a ground floor table closest to the counter, you are afforded a view of a sea of buttocks as others wait in the line then try to squeeze by after they pay. And then there is the stairway - another issue with unsteady patrons climbing with very hot beverages whilst others attempt to exit. It can go wrong oh so easily.
In peek tourist times, it is almost impossible to grab a quick coffee and get on with your day. And that is why, despite the fact that I love Balzac's, I cannot give it five out of five. Its own popularity is its downfall. -
Review from Bec R.
Scarborough, ON
2/11/2012
Really didn't like this place. Too cramped, couldn't move, no where to sit, service wasn't great
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Review from Rainie L.
Markham, ON
1/12/2012
This place is awesome - great energetic vibe, it's busy but not chaotic, it's full of charm, and the latte is really good and strong. Highly recommended!
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Review from Yvonne T.
Balzac's is located in the Distillery District. The decor is rustic, with high ceilings, and wooded furniture. The coffee counter is abundant in biscottis, cookies, cakes, croissants and other pastries.
Green P parking is probably the most economical way to go, or if you're lucky enough, you may be able to snag a 15 minute parking spot to just grab your coffee and go.
We ordered a Café Latte and a Double Cappuccino with a Vanilla-Ricotta Croissant and Vanilla-Almond Biscotti.
I will not call myself a coffee connoisseur but everybody knows what they like. The coffee at Balzac's didn't strike me as particularly superior to coffees I've had at other places. The cappuccino was okay. The latte was better, but it wasn't hot enough. The croissant was soggy and the biscotti was stale.
For a total of $16, I would say I didn't get great value for my money. The gold standard is still Tango Palace Coffee Company on Queen Street East for me!Listed in: All that talk about nothing...
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Review from Donna M.
Toronto, ON
12/29/2011 1 Check-in Here
Love this place. Rustic charm, cool vibe. There is more in store above, than just high ceilings. Be sure to check out the second floor, where there is additional seating. Great coffee too. Oh, and gluten free cookies available. Yay.
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Review from Melissa F.
Toronto, ON
7/19/2011
This place is kind of awesome.
Definitely a tourist or weekend spot for sure. But if you come during the weekday you'll be surprised at how nice and quiet it is and you can get a lot of work done.
the balcony seating is a special bonus and i'm sure all the other reviews will say that this place is worth coming to JUST for the beautiful room.
Things that may or may not have been mentioned in other reviews:
*The school desk seating at the base of the stairs is adorable and YES- I do sit there and YES- it is amazing.
*The baristas are fantastic
*The pastries are really good even though you're more likely to go to Brick Street Bakery a couple doors down
*The weekday makes this a nice place to have a meeting or read- but no wifi
*They have frequent flyer miles aka- stamp cards for an eventual free coffee. -
Review from Rafi N.
Toronto, ON
8/5/2011 2 photos
Balzac's is an historic coffee shop in the Distillery district. The look will take you back to the early 20th century, but the price is modern day. I came with a friend on a day of wandering.
*** FOOD & DRINK ***
We ordered a medium Cappuccino and a brownie.
* Medium Cappuccino *
The cappuccino is good. It is creamy and has a nice firm coffee taste but it's not overpowering.
* Brownie *
The brownie tasted like any generic brownie from a package. It was chewy and had some walnuts in it.
*** SERVICE ***
Service is good. There are a bunch of young women working behind the counter taking and making orders. They're pretty quick and pleasant.
*** ATMOSPHERE ***
This is the big selling point for Balzac's. The historic look is enough to pique anyone's interest. There's a massive chandelier and big wooden doors. The walls have old advertisements hung on them. They don't allow pictures, but rules were made to be broken.
*** PRICE ***
A bit on the overpriced side for a generic brownie.
* Medium Cappuccino | $4.00 *
* Brownie | $3.00 *
*** FIN ***
Balzac's Coffee Roastery is a place that must be visited. You can go for a drink or even something small to eat. However, the main attraction is the historic value, which you won't find anywhere else. If you're in the Distillery District, definitely pay a visit to Balzac's.Listed in: Psychoactive Stimulants
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Review from Hana B.
8/14/2011
A beautiful cafe, with a pleasant ambiance. Friendly servers, and decent walnut biscotti.
My latte however, was made out of burnt espresso beans and was bitter. I usually don't add anything to a latte, and I had to add cream AND a teaspoon of sugar to this one to make it drinkable. I almost judge it to be worse than Starbucks on a good day.
Will not be returning. -
Review from Adam B.
5/31/2011
I'm always interested in checking out a city's local coffee scene and when I was in Toronto's Distillery District for my annual sojourn to Mil St. Brewery, I happened upon this place and decided to see if what's seems to be TO's most elite microroaster would be like to the palette of this elite Yelper.
I had one of their lattes which had a good rich flavor and aroma. Would it make me veer away from those Maple Latte's over at Second Cup? Probably not but it is a good, strong latte.
I bought a pound of Balzac's Blend beans for my girlfriend in LA who's a much bigger coffee snob than I am and at first she didn't like the brew at first but it grew on her. It's a Marble Roast and maybe I should've purchase the darker Mocha Java Blend instead. Still, a very satisfying coffee.
Place is a bit funky and a bit small, too. I'm not sure if it's TO's best brew but I haven't tried all the challengers just yet. -
Review from Crystal E.
Calgary, AB
What a great find when wandering the Distillery District! I am very glad we tried this place and can't wait to visit here again. Delicious latte is all I can say really.
Obviously, the inside of Balzac's is amazing and was completely busy when we were there and I understand why. The service was great and we didn't wait very long for our drink at all even though there was a line-up. I've added a photo of my latte, which to me was just a piece of art really - yes, I love coffee too much, I get it. Give this place a try if you are in the area, if not for the coffee, for the feeling of leaving Toronto and the concrete city behind.Listed in: Coffee Time!
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Review from Dimitrios D.
7/28/2011
It's a beautiful coffee shop location; in a renovated warehouse with expansive ceilings and large brick and mortar walls with exposed wooden roofing.
The coffee (I got a latte) was delicious though the accompanying cookie was just okay for my taste buds (it was too dry, but looked cute while ordering it). -
Review from Cass S.
Toronto, ON
9/19/2011
Ironically, I have decided to give up coffee for a month, the day I'm writing this review. As far as cafes go, however, Balzacs is undeniably a Toronto gem. Apart from the hip location and charming building/interior design, Balzacs takes coffee really, really seriously. You won't find too much to eat here, or a tea list a mile long, but it's a coffee roastery, that's what they do here, and they do it well. Also, the staff are some of the most personable people I've ever met.
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Review from Raymond W.
Toronto, ON
9/3/2011
The Distillery District is not a place I frequent, the history in this part of town doesn't interest me.
I never pay for parking here. It's Green P, but I just don't pay. I refuse.
I was driving a very important person around town, and he decided to have a coffee here. This is actually the only business in the Distillery District I've visited, I just don't like the area.
Upon entering Balzac's, I immediately realized that this is anything but my scene. I would imagine writers, editors, freeloaders and poets coming here, anyone but the company executive I was with.
The first floor made me uncomfortable, as most open-concept floorplans do. There were propaganda era art spontaneously placed on the walls, and a chandelier that I felt made the space feel busy.
There is no décor to this establishment, as everything was left to it's original industrial galore. Even the pressure gauges to what once it was measuring remained conspicuously by the corner. The paint on the brick walls have all cracked away, and the windows had bars on them. If the building was restored, it would look like a factory out of the Soviet Union era, but it wasn't. There was a rustic feeling to Balzac's, a sense of freedom from structure. It was unintimidating, intimate even. The second floor was a separate entity from the first, and sitting here gave me a sense of pure relaxation. Nobody here looked like me, they all dressed differently. Usually this is a bad sign, but it didn't matter here.
I ordered something like a maple coffee or something of the sort, it was damn good. The bar was neatly organised with modern and vintage coffee making instruments. The staff were leisurely..but I guess in a good manner. The two level of this cafe catered to two different kind of patrons. Downstairs for buzzing bees, and upstairs for the...the less busy bees.
I almost fell asleep if it were not for the aid with the executive constantly giving me hand signals of their readiness to leave.
I didn't get a ticket. -
Review from Vivek S.
11/22/2010 2 Check-ins Here
Blah, blah, Balzac's coffee is divine, it's life-changing, it's the ejaculate of the Gods, I've heard it all. This place could serve liquid hate in a cup, and frankly, I'd still pay good money just to sit here. As cafés go, this space is stunning and Torontonians should be proud to have access to so charming and unique a spot Balzac's. This Distillery coffeeshop is some 50 feet high with gargantuan windows and a large green door that's BFG friendly. Walking in will draw your eyes up; it's an overwhelming space.
Their mezzanine is fabulous and I would probably push someone over a ledge for a seat. Their delightful whitewashed walls often feature charming local art. There is a patio out front (which unfortunately faces an abominable sculpture), which is pretty busy in the summer. There's no wifi, so it's not a place to work, but an enjoyable place to chill.
And having said all that, I'll add: their coffee really is pretty good.
Obligatory Title Pun: (Too easy.)
Menu Readability: I definitely do not like the typeface on the board here.
Need to mention: Upstairs there is a mysterious and out-of-place glass door labelled "bureau."
What this place teaches me about myself: I have restraint: a Balzac's pun could have been one of the crown jewels of my pun career.Listed in: Top Coffee Shops, Distillery District Dropdown
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Review from Jennifer K.
Markham, ON
12/9/2010 5 photos
Balzac's Coffee Roastery yes is oh so neat!
I was so in awe when I see that huge chandelier right when I step inside the shop... (Phantom of the Opera Style! :P) Hey I even have the urge to just jump and swing on that! (Must me from the sugar overloaded from Soma earlier!)
The rustic design, the huge mirror behind the espresso bar gave me a sense I been transferred back to the Western Salon... hey where are those cowboys!
Upstairs though is a totally different theme of space. More relax and more artsy and more quiet!
This place was so busy on this particular afternoon and the line up for a chance to purchase a cup of coffee was just too long!
I guess I have to be back again to try out their coffee. But the uniqueness in the set up and decoration of Balzac's Coffee Roastery does worth a repeat visit! -
Review from Rana L.
I'm a coffee, hot chocolate, hot beverage gal. Really enjoyed being here. it's too bad they do not let ppl take photos :) The space was beautiful & must be amazing in the summer when the doors & windows are opened...It's easy to understand why artists would love to hang out here. It's like a little quiet sanctuary.
I hate when coffee tastes too bitter or too strong... but the kind they serve at Balzac seemed just right! Would def. come back if I'm in the area.Listed in: Sweetness to my soul
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Review from WaYnE c.
Maple, ON
10/21/2010
I enjoy that CREAKY door as if a Ghost haunts this shop but it's actually just a windy afternoon. The Classical music suits this place well with Violins and Piano. My Cappuccino ($3.09) was served in a nontraditional Motel style morning Coffee Cup.
There are 2 Elektra Espresso Machines but one of the classical one is more of a presentation item more than functional as the Barista uses the more modern of the two. The Tables, Chairs and overall setting is nice and AIRY as you notice the 2 open floors and the extremely HIGH ceiling.
The Stars that I've selected are more for the appearance that is visually overwhelming and curious for travellers and tourists that look at this structure and decor in AWE but definitely not a place I would frequent due to the strange comfort level nor the so-so drink quality.
If you're a Tourist, then definitely go take a stroll inside but that doesn't necessarily mean you need to make a purchase unless you are in there for such a purpose.Listed in: Coffee Drinks
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Review from Robin D.
10/10/2010 1 photo
Holy, you need to come here. This place represents cool and adds to the great funkiness of the distillery district.
Get your caffeine fix in an assortment of hot or cold drinks. Cold Americano is pretty good. Leave your sugar at home. Upstairs is quite comfortable and it is open so you can look down at the business of this great cafe. Or try sitting outside.
The best part is they do artwork on the cappuccino I believe. I am so sold! And trust me I will come here again. -
Review from Ryan T.
Toronto, ON
9/3/2011
A very beautiful cafe, with a converted indoor terrace from the old building it's in.
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Review from Renata R.
8/15/2010
Being there is already an experience by itself. The building is one of those distillery district victorian lofts, with decorated with posters, stylish bottles and vintage coffee stuff. You should at least visit the place.
I was served by a smiling and easygoing barista, who brewed me an amazing cup of espresso just the way I like it, and everybody knows how I love smiling baristas who make us feel special. They totally own my heart. We talked about dark espressos and I felt like I was the only customer there, and the place was not even close to be empty. You see, THIS IS SERVING COFFEE.
I didn't have their cookies because I went to OMG SOMA before, but everything there looks incredibly good and I was seriously tempted by the cookies. I NEED to go there again. With cookies. -
Review from Janine D.
11/11/2011
i love this place.. awesome coffee and great atmosphere
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Review from Angela H.
4/17/2009
Let's be honest here...I've never actually been in this fine establishment. However, I've been insanely swamped at work, and had someone get me a coffee while they were picking up lunch in the Distillery. Usually I just get Starbucks (black coffee), since there are 1000 in this neighborhood, but Balzac's was a nice change. Organic brewed coffee, rich in taste, piping hot, and all at a fair price.
If i ever get to leave my desk again, perhaps I will take a walk over! -
Review from Greg F.
Toronto, ON
4/7/2009 ROTD 4/13/2009
Want to drink some of the best Organic blends in the city? This is your place! I had a cup of "Farmers Market French Organic Blend" today! I could actually taste the freshness, and the flavour of the pressed beans! Amazing!
Want all organic sugar / cream / milk? Your in luck - Balzac's only carries organic product!
Enter through the barn doors in the historic distillery district and enjoy the best cup in town! -
Review from Adam P.
Toronto, ON
11/17/2009 ROTD 10/13/2010
It's hard to add any new stuff to my review that everyone else hasn't already touched on. The fact that the shop is situated in a historic building gives it a mystique not found in many coffee shops. The fact that it has 2 levels makes it all the more appealing. One of the really nice qualities about this place is that it is quiet. The place was probably half full of people, but everyone was talking quietly with their company and there was no loud music playing in the background. It created a truly relaxing atmosphere.
Other reasons why I find this place so great is the fact that the baristas seems to care about the coffee that they make. Take a look at the designs on top of the specialty coffee's. Also, they have a seasonal menu. Maple syrup latte; delicious. I tried a cappuccino as well and what impressed me about that drink was you could actually taste the milk in the froth.
Reasonably priced, this place is a must try when hanging out in the distillery district. -
Review from Jay G.
Toronto, ON
4/18/2009
Balzac's Coffee Roastery located in the Distillery District is a pleasant surprise and an excellent compliment to a nice stroll through the area. Coffee and baked goods are fantastic. I was lucky enough to come in the morning and experience the coffee roasting. The delicious coffee aroma filled the air and added an extra element to my visit. The owner was very nice and she was happy to show me around to the coffee roaster and explain how they work.
The coffee here is fantastic and very fresh. Great organic blends and awesome baked goods to compliment their fresh coffee. I like to grab a sofa in the loft upstairs. This place is very welcoming and not at all pretentious like some other coffee shops. The staff are very nice and helpful. In the summer there is also a patio which is always a plus.
Overall, this is a great place to stop for coffee and a treat in this area. Located in an amazing historic building this place is not only delicious but very comfortable and charming. Recommend it to anyone who enjoys coffee but this place really shines with their location and decor. -
Review from Jenni B.
5/15/2009 1 photo
Balzac's coffee is the new crack - only not bad for you like narcotics it is easily as addictive, and I'm left wanted nothing but the "good stuff" from this point forward.
Nestled in the lovely Distillery District I was told Balzac's was a must go and that I simply must have a latte of some sort, no black coffee this trip. I saw "Mocha" and realized it had been ages since I had drank one so I gave it a go. This mocha is what I would describe as ambrosia (the nectar of the gods); as I sat on the terrace enjoying said mocha I noted it taste like dark chocolate, my best friend who will now be know as my Balzac's dealer, informed indeed it was dark chocolate.
I left Toronto with a pound and Balzac's blend and a pound of espresso - any overweight luggage surcharges due to the coffee easily would have been worth it. -
Review from Marie F.
4/30/2010 1 Check-in Here
This location is stunning: part art gallery upstairs, part commie propaganda saloon downstairs. I was actually in Liberty Village, and my friend said "let's go in here.. (the LV Balzac location)". I immediately got the idea to take transit all the way to the Distillery just so I could let him experience this location.
We went on a weekday and I was pleasantly surprise to see that the place was relatively empty (probably because it was a beautiful day and most people were drinking/eating outside). While sitting upstairs and looking out onto this ginormous chandelier I honestly forgot were were in a coffee shop!
I ordered a latte which was good, but the mocha my friend ordered was watered down and tasteless. We also got a peanut butter crunch bar that I wasn't too crazy about but my friend loved (I personally like the Magic Bars they have better). -
Review from geraldine g.
Toronto, ON
7/11/2010
Just go!
All i have to say is, wow! Excellent coffee and cool atmosphere!
My score is technically 4.5 because i want to only deduct half a point for having no wi-fi. I had thought it did so that was my only disappointment.
I have to agree with everyone else this place is the bomb.
If you are a coffee aficiando - you need to try this place. It will blow your caffeine mind completely to bits!!
You can also buy their beans if you want to repeat the coffee experience at home like moi. -
Review from Rosie S.
6/13/2009
One of my two favourite coffee places in East Toronto (the other is Jet Fuel on Parliament St.) - the atmosphere at Balzac's is the coolest. Artists are the most frequent patrons, and many a theatre meeting has taken place upstairs at Balzac's (where there are various couches, chairs, tables, nooks and crannies... and balconies... to settle on). Decorated with local art, there is a great vibe here.
The beans are roasted until they are nearly burnt - yummmm! On the days where they do their roasting, you can smell it as far away as Front & Church! The location is amazing - best place for a coffee date, whether it's with a friend or a lover. Also, it reminds me of Stratford (where the original Balzac's is).
It's all in the roasting of the beans.Listed in: Donnie & Rosie Dates!
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Review from Dani L.
Toronto, ON
4/16/2010
Unfortunately I went down to Balzac's because this listing told me they had WiFi. They DO NOT! :(
the coffee is pretty excellent, but the pastries are mostly Dufflet (the company Second Cup uses). Meh, indeed. -
Review from Joanne T.
Toronto, ON
12/14/2010
I can be quite a coffee snob, and I don't mean to sound elitist, but some coffee I will not touch.
Balzac has amazing coffee. All of it.
We also have purchased quite a few different kinds of beans to drink it at home as well. My favourite is the Fair Trade Nicaraguan.
But now that it is winter and freezing, I am loving their Ginger, Lemon, Maple Syrup Booster - soothing, warms you up and delicious.
A must try. -
Review from Denise S.
5/11/2010
Great atmosphere! I could read here for hours. I especially love the little table on the 2nd level balcony overlooking the entire cafe. Mocha lattes are decent. The chocolate pocky served on the side is a nice touch.
As others mentioned, there is NO wifi access. I read on some website that they had wifi, but they do not. I'm not sure if there are any plans to have wifi access in the future.
Watch out during the summer. I have stopped by a few times last summer only to find them closed for a private function/wedding. -
Review from Lila S.
Toronto, ON
10/13/2010
My boyfriend and I used to come in here on hazy Sunday afternoons, get coffee and the hot apple cider and play Scrabble for hours.
I love this place -- it holds a special spot in my heart and always will. -
Review from Briar G.
Toronto, ON
7/7/2010
Coffee perfection is...
My favourite place to latte in Toronto, one of the most beautiful spaces a coffee shop can have, and the staff is always making beautiful coffee art.
Love it. -
Review from Tara L.
Toronto, ON
5/1/2011 1 Check-in Here
I really love Balzac's. They stock gluten free cookies which are nice. The building is beautiful and I always leave a calmer version of my earlier self.
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Review from jennifer h.
4/24/2011 1 Check-in Here
Love! It was a cold, rainy day so I had the hot lemon/ginger/maple syrup drink (don't remember the name)soooooo good! The atmosphere is cool with the huge chandelier overhead. I would come here twice a day if I could! Would love to order something to eat. Great find!!!
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Review from Dawn M.
11/28/2009
I loved this little coffee shop - no time to linger though. Coffee (skim lattes) were great - we enjoyed them. Space was lovely and unique. Antique coffee paraphanalia spread around the place was fun to look at. Everything was clean and orderly. Yes, look at the designs on the coffee - a nice touch. :-)
Would I recommend? Yes - anyone who likes hot drinks, and is in the area should stop at Balzacs.
Would I return? Yup - it will be my first stop next time we are in the district, instead of my last - will make sure we allow time to sit and enjoy the space.
