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Crema Coffee Co.
Category: Food Coffee & Tea Coffee & Tea [Edit]
3079 Dundas St WToronto, ON M6P 1Z9
Neighbourhood: The Junction
(416) 767-3131
- Hours:
Mon-Thu 7 am - 8 pm
Fri-Sat 7 am - 9 pm
Sun 8 am - 8 pm
- Price Range:
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$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
33 reviews for Crema Coffee Co.
Review Highlights
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"The red velvet cupcake that I had was absolutely perfect." In 3 reviews -
"Now I can't enjoy a latte anywhere else." In 13 reviews -
"...and knowledgeable, not to mention: cuuuute baristas." In 7 reviews
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33 reviews in English
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Review from Allison T.
Toronto, ON
12/1/2011 2 Check-ins Here
Look, I like Crema. & you like Crema. I don't even know why I'm discussing this. Maybe because we all like it so much, it can get a little crowded & overbearing at times.
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Review from John M.
Toronto, ON
2/7/2012
I'm happy with the coffee I get at Crema. My cortado always tastes great and tends to have some impressive foam art. And the staff is usually fun and friendly.
So why isn't Crema my first choice when I go out for coffee in The Junction? One reason: The Stroller Patrol!
I can make coffee at home. Espressos too. If I'm going our for a coffee, I want to take a seat, read a paper, catch up on the internet, people watch out the window, chat with my partner or whoever else I take, and most importantly, relax. That's tough to do when getting from the front door to the bar usually involves running a gauntlet of prams. Don't get me wrong. I'm a fan of gauntlet-running. If someone wants to make a Takeshi's Castle themed restaurant I'd be the first in line. But that's not the vibe I'm looking for in a coffee house.
Good on Crema for doing such a good business. I love that they've been able to expand across the city. Too bad this particular location just doesn't feel like where I want to be. Thankfully, there are other places to get coffee in The Junction that are more my speed. -
Review from Maddie R.
12/13/2011
Crema has great coffee. We all know that! The service is also good and the sandwiches are very awesome (way better than the sandwiches at The Good Neighbour! Sorry TGN..I really love you but you need better sandwiches).
The atmosphere for those wishing to linger could be a little better though. It can get really really hot and the wifi is hit and miss. Today I didn't stay because of these two factors. The heat was making me sleepy despite recently consuming my double Americano. (I'm sure it has to do with the old building and those old school rads!)
ZZZZzzzzzzzzz -
Review from Erin B.
I had the best soy latte of my entire life at this Crema Coffee Co. I don't know how they did it, but it was creamy and smooth with just a perfect hint of sweetness and not a bit of the earthier heaviness that often accompanies a soy latte. Heaven.
The cafe was uber busy when I arrived and the room seemed quite loud, as if every noise was somehow amplified in this space. The grinding and banging and dinging and chatter weren't particularly relaxing. It started to settle down a bit while I sipped my latte, at which point I was better able to enjoy the cozy cushioned corner where I perched to read and people watch. I'd go back often if I lived in the neighbourhood. -
Review from SP M.
Toronto, ON
8/6/2011 6 Check-ins Here
Let me start by saying that I am not a regular coffee drinker. I adore latte's and prior to Crema I was a long time Starbucks latte fan...say, once or twice a month I'd have one.
After moving back to the Junction last fall I popped by Crema and MY GOD their latte's are TO DIE FOR. I don't know what it is they do...or what sort of magical things go on behind that counter. The breakfast sandwich is heavenly as are the scones (Maple Oat or Lemon something or other are the best).
I can't say enough good things about this place. Go there. -
Review from Dishan W.
A very solid 4.5 stars for me here!
I finally managed to find time to visit Crema! It was one of few passport stops I'd heard of before my journey to collect the 24 stamps in the passport and one I was afraid I might miss out on because I am NEVER around that area. And my experience at the other Crema downtown had it's ups and downs, so I did not know what to expect.
I walked in and saw 3 couples with strollers/baby seats! That was definitely a first for me at a coffee spot, I was surprised to see that they even had those tall baby seats. Is that normal for coffee shops??
It had a very nice clean polished look and feel about it, not the most charming of spots but I really liked the staff members here who chatted about the passport program, the junction and drinks and they were very friendly. Definitely the reason that I'm putting this in the 5 star category.
I really enjoyed my latte too definitely one of the better ones I've tried of late, and got myself a fig and pistachio cookie! (One of the best things about the coffee passport is also the fact that some of these places have great cookies!) Judging from the cookie, I would be very curious to try out some of their other food items which did seem a little on the pricey side, but something tells me it might be worth it.
They change the wifi password here very often they tell me so don't be surprised if on your repeat visits the old password fails on you. I just wish they weren't so far away from everything to do with my life.Listed in: Caffeine Adventures!
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Review from Michelle G.
Toronto, ON
12/20/2010 1 Check-in Here
Like the Crema Coffee Co. on Bloor, the soy latte I ordered from here was delicious. Though if you're expecting coffee art, you might not get it. I certainly didn't, but luckily that doesn't really matter much to me.
They baristas are friendly, helpful, and competent, and when I bought an Indie Coffee Passport here, one of them had a few suggestions for other places on the list to visit (which was extremely helpful, and I'm looking forward to taking advantage of her coffee wisdom.)
There are adequate outlets (well... okay there are six, and I got one, so for me, that's adequate) for us computer folks, fast free wifi and places to sit. I noticed one gluten free/vegan option in the collection of sweet baked goods at the counter, hopefully they improve the selection on that front. Though people looking for gluten free or vegan baked yumminess with their coffee can just cross the street like I did, and grab something from Bunner's Bake Shop.
My only complaint is that they normally charge extra for soy milk, but I avoided that issue by using the indie coffee passport.Listed in: Indie Coffee Passport Stops
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Review from Jennifer K.
Markham, ON
12/30/2010 6 photos
Crema Coffee Co. is one of the cafes that participate in the Indie Passport.
The deco is white and simple with tables packed closely together since Crema Coffee can be quite crowded with customers parked themselves using their Free Wifi enjoying their beverages. The deco is not too homey or rustic.. just clean and maybe too clean for my taste. IKEA style clean!
The staffs here are really nice and cheerful... with smiley faces... and the bubbly cashier kept talking to my friend admiring his Indie Passport while people (me and some more) lining up waiting to be served.
The Cappuccino is A-OK always love those latte art since I cannot do it myself :P The Oolong tea was in loose leaf tea form served in a French press, no yucky tea bag!! AAA-OK!
Why bother going to Starbucks across the street when you can go to Crema!! -
Review from Renata R.
Used to be awesome. The last three times I went there, service was poor, tables were packed, and the mocha served on the Starbucks across the street tasted much better. WHAT'S WRONG WITH YOU?
I took a friend there, to show him this nice cafe, and he had problems with his order, but even so he FINISHED HIS COFFEE before I could have my latte done. Not that he was fast, my latte took about 15 minutes. A latte. They served five orders before mine, and my friend ordered with me.
Something similar happened yesterday when I had to wait a long time for a mocha that tasted basically like milk. I usually don't add sweetener to mochas, but I had to. Frustrating. If you read my previous review, you can see how I used to like this place a few months ago. No idea what happened. I had to be consistently badly served to think about writing a bad review.
I really hope they change things there. Next time I'll go to Starbucks.Listed in: Coffee & Muffins
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/27/2010
You don't even need to ask for a dark evil black short coffee. When you ask for a espresso, they… Read more »
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Review from WaYnE c.
Maple, ON
12/21/2010
Old busted wooden door feel and the aged black mailbox gives you an idea not only what this place is about but the overall neighbourhood. At least this time around I can open this busted door knob. For some reason this place reminds me of Mercury Espresso on the East-end with the corner location and the large windows and the setup as well.
I'm not a fan of the lay-out as the Tables in the Cafe are quite compacted which leaves very little space for Travellers to pass through therefore one must go through the treacherous pathway know as the Original Q. Do you know about this factor? It's quite common especially Downtown area.
The hungry and cold customers wait forever in single-line get to see the full and satisfied customers squeeze by them on their way out because the Entrance/Exit is super narrow so you can smell what they ate while they pass you and give you the "L"oser sign.
In a Cafe environment, I'm sure eventually I'll be like my sugar-loaded Friend and pour the whole cup of hot Coffee onto someone while I tightrope my way through these places.
As for the Cappuccino, the first one was a piece of Art that didn't take so long that the original creator passed-away. I did notice that while the Barista poured, the second guy was overlooking his work and guiding him through.
2 Baristas serving me that is what I call service which is too bad because the next person in line would have to wait until they finish admiring my Cup before continuing to theirs. It's a nice Beverage indeed but just not my scene.Listed in: Coffee Drinks
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Review from Lauren L.
Toronto, ON
3/4/2011
Big big big big fan of Crema right here.
It's my neighbourhood coffee shop, and they keep the good vibes going with a low-key atmosphere and requisitely delicious lattes and baked goods. The croissants are flaky and buttery, unlike so many other places' offerings which are doughy and unappetizing, and the scones... *Homer Simpson-style drooling*
But most importantly, the staff remembers who you are (or at least they do in my case), and that ensures that I will go nowhere else in the Junction for coffee. I love the neighbourly vibe, which they cultivate by being mega-friendly, and also by endorsing lots of local businesses.
Can't wait for Crema to open their downtown branch. I want this sh*t near my office! -
Review from Eliah H.
Toronto, ON
11/17/2010 1 Check-in Here
Crema Coffee Co. makes for a welcome addition to the Junction for those who love a deliciously brewed caffeinated beverages. I can easily say they serve some of the best espresso based drinks in Toronto. The baristas are friendly and competent in getting the full potential out of their Epic Espresso beans. Yum.
The place is brightly lit but not uncomfortably so. With free WiFi access it's popular among the student and MacBook crowd as well as artzy types and locals looking for a comfortable place to meet 'n greet over coffee. Aside from coffee you can order tea as well as a variety of snacks like muffins, scones, tarts and the like. Note that the snacks here tend to be pricey, but perhaps no more than what you'd find at Starbucks. Crema Coffee Co. also offer a repeat customer card for a free beverage like many of the indie coffee houses.
I recommend this place, it's a great cafe. My only beef is that I wish their pastries weren't priced so high. Note that this location doesn't have the Clover machine, that's the other location near Bloor and Yonge. They do have French Press coffee available through.Listed in: Eliah's Big List of Go To…
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Review from Nicole H.
Toronto, ON
10/16/2010 2 Check-ins Here
Saturday afternoon at the Junction location of Crema sees a lot of traffic, but thanks to a (reasonably) quick turnover of stay-in customers and a good amount of seating (inside and out), you can grab your coffee and sit back & relax without worrying about where to park your bum.
Despite the throngs of families, couples & loners like me, the cash & barista staff were friendly & quick to serve. They balance their time well between the folks getting coffee to-go and those who order to sit down. Crema's coffee is really fine - my soy latte was nice and creamy with no bitterness, and really went down a treat. They have plenty of baked goods on offer (including some Sweets of the Earth cupcakes if I spotted correctly?), but I was happy to keep it to just me and my latte.
Last notes - washroom (downstairs) includes changing area for babies in the Ladies; free wifi too (you need a code). It's a good location for the neighbourhood, but I might be sad if this were Toronto's only Crema. Thankfully the Bloor location means I can enjoy this terrific coffee more frequently (and share the space with a few less kidlets, which is helpful when i'm undercaffeinated).Listed in: Caffeine Nation: The Toronto…
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Review from Isabella L.
Toronto, ON
9/13/2010 1 photo
C O F F E E P A S S P O R T S T O P (#2)
Drink: Mocha (One size)
Atmosphere: Another simple-looking coffee shop. Reminds me of Sweet Flour Bake shop with its' brown colouring and contemporary design. There were a lot of people today, because of the Junction Arts Festival, but they still maintained great service. The cashier was adorable and had a welcoming smile not like some intimidating baristas. Thumbs up.
Verdict: The drink was okay, I think it wasn't as strong as I'd hope it to be. Tasted a bit watered down. On the other hand, the design was so warm and pretty. It's always a shame destroying coffee art, but hey, tasting the art is always a million times better. Overall, it's a nice cafe, but from where I live, getting there is really a journey, so I don't think I'll be visiting again as there are better places and mochas.Listed in: Indie Coffee Passport Stops
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Review from Kat F.
6/18/2009 1 Check-in Here
Who knew The Junction would be so bustling on a Tuesday afternoon?
Crema Coffee was absolutely crammed with locals for the several hours that I spent working using their strong and reliable wi-fi. Lots of people having business meetings, reading books, working on their computers and SAHMs with their tots (a bit of a minus but not enough to deduct a star - noise cancelling headphones are a godsend!).
The decor is classic, with vinyl seat cushions, grade school style pupitre chairs (you know, the wood ones) and beautiful masonite dog portraits along the cafe walls. There's a cute tip jar on the counter that declares "Bad tippers are lame in bed!" and a sticker on the front door of a dinosaur yelling "Doorasaurus says roar, shut the door behind you!"
I worked along to Death Cab For Cutie's "Plans" and The National's "Boxer". Great soundtrack for working. Staff is friendly and knowledgeable, not to mention: cuuuute baristas.
I had a large chai latte with soy milk ($4) and a homemade apricot and cinnamon iced tea (unsweetened). I was happy to see that they had liquid sweetener and I injected my drink with a shot of it. They also have a self-serve water cooler, which is a nice touch when the lineup is out the door and you don't want to burden the baristas with your water request.
As for food, they have desserts from Wanda's Pie In The Sky (brownies, dulce de leche, cookies) and cupcakes from Yummy Stuff in Parkdale. The red velvet cupcake that I had was absolutely perfect!! I was so happy to see it in the display case that I almost lunged for it. They also had - wait for it - a MAPLE BACON CUPCAKE. I didn't dare try it, but can someone please, and report back? -
Review from David M.
Toronto, ON
1/5/2010
I have one complaint about Crema. Now I can't enjoy a latte anywhere else. These are by far the best I've had. You can taste the coffee. Other places serve warm, tasteless, milky drinks by comparison.
Start with high-quality beans, take it seriously and know what you're doing, and this is what you get.Listed in: Coffee, 5-star Reviews
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Review from Sonya K.
Toronto, ON
7/13/2011
I come here for their near-perfect cap. I rank Crema, Bisogno and Sam James as my 3 favourite indie cafes in the city. Crema's caps are quite delicious.
I love the environment, the tables, cushions, and art work. I love that I almost always see families here and a very unpretentious clientele.
Why 2 stars you ask? Although this place draws quite a friendly, laid back crowd, the staff are particularly snooty - CONSISTENTLY. As a matter of principle, I try to come here less often as a result.
If anyone at crema reads this, you really shouldn't tell people how a coffee should be drank in a condescending way and remember I am paying for my drink, you are not doing me a favour by making me one.
Oh - and please, try to smile every so often.
I end up at Sam James almost daily. I love their caps just as much and love the warmth of Sam and the gang. -
Review from Shelby G.
Toronto, ON
2/21/2010 1 Check-in Here
I have nothing against Starbucks (many moons ago I worked in one) - the coffee and espresso served at one generally always matches what would be served at another location 1500 miles...er...kilometres away. But a few weeks into decompressing at the same homogenized Seattle Siren shop for the last few weeks, it was time to branch out and find something with a bit more local flavour.
Crema is a welcome drop of artisan-crafted espresso beverage and pastry located in the middle of the Junction. If you don't know to look for it, you might actually miss the shop and walk straight past it (as I did). Upon entering you'll find a steady crowd of Junctioneers, sitting with their friends, family, work or pleasure reading, enjoying their beverages in a clean, simple but well done corner shop. The light brown floors, local art and alluring aromas all fit the necessary stereotypes of the coffee-shop genre, but manage to do so with balance, without teetering over the edge into pretentiousness.
Even when very busy, the baristas greeted me with a smile, friendly hello and a nice bit of chit chat. When I pointed to a curious pastry and asked what it was (a butter tart), I was answered with a smile, a knowing definition into why this particular butter tart was specifically good, and a brief conversation about my origins and coming to this city. I ordered the tart with a regular cappuccino, and managed to secure one of the two remaining tables.
After a slightly long wait (only one barista was actually preparing drinks), I received my wet-style cappuccino. It was served in a proper ceramic cup with a standard art design in the foam.
It washed away any problems I might have had with waiting an extra 3-4 minutes for my drink. It was perfectly crafted. The milk was steamed in a way that allowed the natural sweetness to hit my tongue, balancing out a very well pulled and not-too-strong espresso. I was able to savour my beverage for only about 20 minutes, looking up from my book every few seconds to enjoy just a sip more. The butter tart was also delicious, going perfectly with my coffee. It might be just a smidge too sweet for my taste, but this is a personal preference, and not one of which I am completely convinced.
As a transplant from another city, I think that finding the right coffee and tea shop is a key to finding the correct neighborhood in which to live. After stopping into Crema Coffee Company, I'd say that the Junction jumped up a few spots on my list! -
Review from Kim B.
ON
11/27/2008 7 photos
Crema definitely has a great atmosphere, equipped with beautiful decor, large windows and lots of places to sit (plus free Wifi).
However, I got a latte for my boyfriend from here and he said it was mostly foam, and I found the staff to be a little bit...slow, not so much in the making of the drinks but just....in general.
But I did try their "On the Waterfront" tea blend which was really refreshing (minty and smooth) and again, it's a really cozy space (although busy because people sit, get free wi-fi, and never leave), so I think I'll go back if I'm in the area again. -
Review from Jenny M.
Toronto, ON
3/17/2011
One of the best lattes I've ever had! Never had a bad experience, the staff is always friendly, and the atmosphere is bright and clean.
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Review from Shirley S.
Toronto, ON
6/29/2011
Visited the Danforth location - solid 2 stars for me !
The place was clean and empty which I actually liked but the espresso was TERRIBLE ! ! ! !
The barista made a good impression as if he knew what he is doing which raised my expectation for a good espresso however it was undrinkable. -
Review from Marie F.
7/6/2010 2 Check-ins Here
I have been passing this place via the 30 Lambton once a week for the last few months, with the intentions of one day getting off and grabbing a cup of joe.
Well today was that day and I even sweetened the deal with a cupcake!
I ordered an Ice Latte which was both strong, creamy and delicious.
My cupcake was an ultra moist Red Velvet cupcake (tasted like chocolate) with vanilla icing.
Inside was nice and cool thanks to the A/C but they also have a very large side patio area with lots of large umbrellas for shade. I am told there is Free WiFi; you just have to ask the barista for the code. -
Review from Joey S.
Toronto, ON
3/16/2011 4 Check-ins Here
Crema is a great cafe, housed in a former bank building in the Junction. The coffee is great, and the food is good. Their double Americano is excellent and they don't rush to make it, which I appreciate. My only complaint is that it closes at 7:00 p.m. Starbucks opened across the street from it recently, and does stay open much later. Anyway, between the large outdoor patio, and free Wi-fi, it is a great place to meet with friends, or even get some work done, along with a great tasting coffee.
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Review from Jay U.
Toronto, ON
Delicious coffee and interesting pastries and baking in an inviting but cramped environment made my first visit to Crema pleasant and worthwhile. Friendly baristas. Excellent red velvet cupcake.
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Review from Leslie-Anne W.
Toronto, ON
One of the best coffees in Toronto. The cortado is delicious!
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Review from John B.
Toronto, ON
These guys are doing a lot that is right. They've got the requisite Clover and quality coffee on hand. They also sell a decent selection of gear for the home brewer, including Baratza grinders and Technivorm machines. The place gets a little noisy and I'd like to see more on offer in the baked goods department, but Crema is pretty much a must-visit.
Listed in: Toronto's Best Espresso
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Review from Scott C.
Toronto, ON
2/21/2010
Wow! Another great little discovery. Coffee in the junction, a perfect wrap up to our day. I wish crema was in my area, very European. Closest to a cafe I love in Amsterdam.
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Review from Victoria S.
Toronto, ON
1/24/2011
i prefer to make coffee at home than purchase it in a cup... but i do sometimes, and this is my favourite place. i can honestly say that crema consistently produces the best americano i've ever had. and i would consider myself to be a coffee lover. one time i got a latte and it had a beautiful leaf design in it that i was so mesmerized by i had to take a picture with my phone so that it would last forever. the baked goods are unspeakably delicious. it's nice and bright in there. the art changes fairly frequently. the staff are great and in my experience they have humoured my bad jokes.
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Review from kai s.
Toronto, ON
Updated - 11/20/2008 2 photos
They have WiFi. I am moving in and living at Crema for a few months folks.
Listed in: My Neighborhood
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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11/11/2008 First to Review
I was running an errand in the slowly gentrifying and artsy Junction neighborhood and I was rewarded… Read more »
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Review from J S.
Toronto, ON
8/24/2010
I have to admit that Crema's basic brewed coffee isn't my favourite - a bit too acidic for me - and I find it odd that they only offer one blend. I guess the focus is on the other drinks, which is fair enough. Still, I love this place. There's a patio, a ton of natural light inside, which is great when you're trying to get work done, and best of all, they play good music (frequently The Pixies) without being pretentious about it.
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Review from JOdi M.
Toronto, ON
4/16/2010
The coffee is amazing and so are the various deserts! But, watching the barista make your latte is a painful experience that borders on either watching paint drying or a frame-by-frame movie depending on one's mood. To make matters worse, it's not one barista in particular; it's all of them. It is the strangest way to run a business. I would go there more often but I don't have the patience.
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Review from Beladonna S.
Toronto, ON
3/8/2009
Great coffee but very unfriendly and arrogant service from some barristers.
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Review from Twenty T.
Etobicoke, ON
7/11/2009
Great coffee. Great atmosphere. Great staff. Outstanding pastries.
