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Broadview Espresso
- Price Range:
-
$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- No
- Parking:
- Street
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
18 reviews for Broadview Espresso
18 reviews in English
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Review from Suzie G.
East York, ON
11/1/2009
Broadview Espresso is my new favourite place to work - well, that is, when I don't need the internet to get said work done. As others have mentioned, this little café does NOT have wifi. From what I've heard, it was apparently a decision made by the owner to make this a place for conversation and contemplation, not a place filled with laptops. Fair enough.
So yes, while I do like to go to cafés to work online, Broadview Espresso is the best option when I need to do work without getting distracted by Facebook, Twitter, and, oh yeah, Yelp! The drink selection is delicious and varied, though I always find myself drawn to their fantastic Rooibos Provence loose tea. As for the treats, I've tried both their carrot cake (with amazing cream cheese frosting) and their chocolate chip cookies (the dough clearly has a large amount of brown sugar in it, and therefore is so awesome) and loved both.
All of the employees I've encountered there are super nice and chill and help foster a really positive, laid-back vibe to the shop. Their fantastic music choices also help with that, as on my first visit I was treated to a Cat Stevens greatest hits collection, and the second time was Sarah Harmer's three best albums shuffled together on someone's iPod. I love when I bring my own iPod to a café to work but don't end up using it 'cause the music choices are more perfect than my own!
Important note!: This place is cash only. And while they do have a cash machine in the basement, it's frequently broken. Fortunately there is a convenience store with an ATM across the street though, if needed.Listed in: My fave Danforth area stops
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Review from Jennifer K.
Markham, ON
Sometimes I go to coffee shop just to chill and enjoy a cup of coffee...
Broadview Espresso will be perfect as you won't see an ocean of laptop or people stays here for hours just watching youtube.
Nice, quiet and cozy... Love the west facing windows on a late sunny afternoon....
Americano ($2.50) has this nutty taste and great aroma...
Now I am all caffeinated and ready for my spin class!! -
Review from David M.
Toronto, ON
9/13/2011
**Review is for cortado fanciers.** ;-)
Popped into this place for the first time, and I really liked the vibe. It was a beautiful day, and their outside seating was well used and enjoyed.
They don't have cortados on their menu, but I asked if they could make one and they didn't hesitate, but there were a few inconsistencies when compared to the way other coffee shops prepare them. (I've had cortados at a number of different places - Crema, Rooster, Mercury, Mascot, the newly opened Bandit etc.)
Firstly, she asked if I wanted a single or a double. Never been asked that before, but probably because the others automatically pull doubles.
I watched the barista, and here was his routine; he pulled a double shot of espresso, and to that he added a couple of spoonfuls of foam, poured in some steamed milk, then added some more foam. This was all done in a small cappuccino cup.
I've never seen the drink constructed in this way and never had foam added to it. It is almost always served in a small glass and includes some art on the top (impossible when spooned foam is the last step).
That said, this is obviously a shop that takes it's espresso-based drinks seriously, and I won't complain about my cortado, because it isn't even on the menu. I also found the beans a tad over-roasted, but I hesitate to mention that as no other Yelper points it out, so maybe it was only my batch.
That said, I look forward to trying this place again and giving it a second chance.
*Really 3.5, but I'm giving them the benefit of the doubt.Listed in: Coffee
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Review from Kendra M.
Toronto, ON
1/7/2012
I got a delicious cappuccino to-go from Broadview Expresso today. They serve up some great coffee at this corner shop. I'm definitely going back to enjoy a coffee at this place soon.
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Review from Angela C.
York, ON
11/2/2011
The lack of wi-fi is its biggest downfall but otherwise has a wonderful, cozy vibe and really friendly service. They do great espresso drinks and my boyfriend's favourite hot chocolate ever!
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Review from Kat F.
7/18/2010 3 Check-ins Here
5 stars for the coffee - truly dynamite espresso and wet cappuccinos are made here using Classic Gourmet beans from just north of Toronto. At $3.25 (single) or $3.50 (double), cappuccinos here are cheaper than many other "indie" coffee shops and always expertly made.
However, in 2010 I must object to the lack of wi-fi (especially since it's a cute space and good location) as well as the erratic business hours. On multiple occasions I've come by for a capp 20-30 minutes before closing (which is already far too early if you must know) and the machines were "done for the day." Probably easier to just lock one's doors than to turn away customers in DIRE need of caffeine at still-an-early-hour, especially since nearby Si Espresso is an unacceptable substitute (besides, their coffee is unpalatable, they have similarly Draconian business hours and also no wi-fi - what is it with The Danforth???).Listed in: Caffeinate Thyself
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Review from Amy D.
Toronto, ON
1/28/2009 1 photo
For months there was neighborhood speculation about what the former porn shop on the corner was going to transform itself into.
The paper covered windows added to the excitement as people peered into get a closer look at what was the newest addition to the neighborhood.
The owner did not disappoint, as a coffee shop is a welcome addition to Broadview. The little shop that could has slowly made it's mark on a neighborhood that has been in search of a good cup of coffee for sometime.
The owner, a former waiter at Canoe has perfected the art of making the perfect cup of coffee. His skill with foam has resulted in a bustling shop with a true neighborhood feel.
The little shop has been busy since day one serving up coffee in conversation. The owner has made the decision not to have wifi in an effort to protect the space for just that, coffee and conversation.
I highly recommend this place as a meeting place or first date, although get there early to get one of the few tables available. -
Review from Shari M.
Toronto, ON
1/3/2010 1 Check-in Here
After having my nails done at Urban Nails, I decided I needed a caffeine kick and a snack, and after reading reviews of Broadview Espresso on Yelp, I decided to pop in and give it a try.
The decor is very cute and comfy. After deciding to get a take out, I kinda wished I decided to stay in. Next time!
I asked the baristas what they recommended as it was my first visit. They asked a few questions and a cappuccino was decided upon. A single shot capp set me back $3. Not cheap. More expensive than your Starbucks, but trust me, much more enjoyable. One of the best capps I have had in a while. I was also looking for a snacky/treat, but there was not much selection (odd cookie and vegan item), so I decided to pass. Was not sure if this is a regular, or because it was a Sunday afternoon.
I agree with Suzie G, that this place is more of a conversationalist spot vs a wifi work spot. There is a variety of seating and (a personal fav) local art work for sale.
I am looking forward to coming back with some friends to chat over double capps!Listed in: Give me my f*$%ing coffee!
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Review from Matthew A.
Toronto, ON
Lovely spot, close to home... fresh baked goods. Cash only
I don't really want to tell people about this Playter Estates gem. The service is at the speed of this two head espresso machine. The staff are nice, the atmosphere is low key ... the only thing missing was WiFi.
I thought I took a picture ...
Anyhoo ... I'm there a lot. Me and dog, me without dog, dog, without me. -
Review from Thom H.
12/30/2009 1 Check-in Here
Best espresso in the city! After having tried every coffee place on this side of the Don, I don't think I've ever had a espresso that rivaled this lovely place.
Unfortunately, when I go for espresso, it's often with either another person or a laptop, and that limits the number of occasions for which I find this to be the right cafe. If there's another person, we'll probably end up somewhere else, because the seating in BE is very limited and it's just not big enough to feel comfortable there for very long. If I lived right near by, i'm sure i'd feel differently, but Riverdale Perk or The One or Remarkable Bean are much more comfortable places to while away time in conversation.
So, I tend to go to Broadview Espresso when I'm grabbing a cup to go. Nice folks, nice music, great coffee. -
Review from Caitlin R.
Scarborough, ON
2/19/2010
I'm attending night school just a few blocks away from this place and was enormously grateful to stumble upon it. In an attempt to save money, I am taking the token route this month instead of my more favorable MetroPass- basically meaning that if I'm going somewhere, I'm staying there.
Which blows, specifically because my night school is beside nothing else but a stark, greasy Pizza Pizza and some high end South American restaurants. Neither of which I'd like to spend any amount of time in studying or reading.
This place (Broadview Espresso), is a breath of fresh air in contrast to its surrounding environment. Adorable wooden chairs and tables inside, and original art works posted on the walls (note: AWESOME colorful floral paintings are currently hanging if you are in the market for purchasing some wall art!)
It was a little discerning as I walked up to the place as the windows were completely fogged due to the cold (...I don't know how other places avoid this...) but on the inside, the Barista boy (and I'd assume owner) is wonderfully cheerful and welcoming- reminds me a little of a happy version of Luke from Gilmore Girls.
Their dark coffee is lovely and they serve their tea the hardcore way (scoop the herbs into a little mesh bag right before your eyes!). Have not tried any of the food, but looks a lot like your average coffee shop stop baked goodies.
This place is a sparkle of a gem in an otherwise iffy area. Highly recommend if you enjoy your coffee shops! -
Review from Elle P.
6/29/2010
I needed a little pick-me-up -- something cool and with caffeine. I stopped by Broadview Espresso because of the great things I read about it on Yelp. These yelpers did not lie. Broadview Espresso is indeed a little gem hidden off the Danforth.
I got an iced latte, which is their answer to Starbuck's Frappuccino. They premake the icy coffee slushee using their own beans and simple syrup. When you order it, they mix the thick icy concoction with milk, and voila, there was my very icy latte.
The look on my face made the server hurriedly reassure me that they made the coffee product and it wasn't a pre-packaged junk.
It was very sweet (sweeter than I would personally prefer), very cold, and refreshing on such a hot muggy day. And wow! Did it pack a caffeine punch. I was definitely ready for a full's day work after drinking that iced latte.
The cafe itself is homey and down to earth. It's a good place to sit and relax or to bring a laptop when you want to work outside of your home. -
Review from Alex B.
Toronto, ON
7/29/2010 2 Check-ins Here
One of the best coffee shops in the city. The owner is a great guy. The staff are friendly and a great group of people frequent here. Their iced coffees are great and while they look pre-made everything is prepared in house.
There is no WiFi here which is why it is only my sometimes office. You can "borrow" WiFi from other surrounding stores (who shall remain unnamed should they ever Google themselves) but the connection is spotty, slow and prone to dropping out. -
Review from Solecito G.
Toronto, ON
1/1/2011
I Just love coffee there;the only thing that I don't like it's the thin and small slices of cake that are served, they are expensive and could be a bit bigger.
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Review from Jj S.
Toronto, ON
10/7/2010
Stopped in there for a quick Americano and got taken in by a slice of pumpkin cake. Place had a steady stream of traffic from 9am Saturday morning until 10ish (as expected). Service was friendly, but more importatnly the coffee was fantastic. Pumpkin cake was a tad dry, but really can't complain. Wish this spot was around the corner from my place. Wifi would be nice, but I wasn't there long enough to notice.
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Review from Roanna Z.
6/10/2009 2 photos
What a BEAUTIFUL shop and nice spot to grab a good quality cup and maybe sit outside and enjoy the neighbourhood. A couple of doggies sniffed us up as we enjoyed the place. Nice treats for humans here.
Listed in: Connect the dots on a coffee…
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Review from Zeynep U.
Toronto, ON
3/29/2011
The coffee was excellent. I had already had a strong coffee today and so opted for decaf which I usually find a bit underwhelming in taste. It was very good. Great atmosphere and decor. What I liked best was how friendly the owner was. I am so used to the pretentious Mercury and was so shocked by his small talk my tongue got tied!!! I would definitely go back.
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Review from Gianni J.
East York, ON
9/23/2009
What a great little surprise!!! This has definitely become one of my favourite coffee houses. Great surrounding, great service AND of course, great coffee. It really does distance itself from the corporate feel of a Starbuck's. Very comfortable and homey, with a small town feel:)
