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Dark Horse Espresso
Category: Food Coffee & Tea Coffee & Tea [Edit]
215 Spadina AveToronto, ON M5T 2C7
Neighbourhoods: Alexandra Park, Chinatown, Downtown Core
(416) 979-1200
- Hours:
Mon-Fri 7 am - 7 pm
Sat-Sun 8 am - 7 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- No
- Parking:
- Street
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
83 reviews for Dark Horse Espresso
Review Highlights
"If I haven't said it before, I think I love communal tables."
(in 20 reviews)
"The staff are friendly and helpful and there is free wi-fi."
(in 6 reviews)
"Teas are done in a french press and are great quality."
(in 5 reviews)
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83 reviews in English
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Review from Rachael T.
Toronto, ON
1/8/2012
Everytime I walk by this place, it is always busy - it must be because of the open concept, beautiful interior, large communal tables, and a large assortment of goodies that are waiting to be indulged!
Apparently I just missed the huge lineup that was rounding out the door (thank goodness). I had set my eye on a london fog but the seasonal cranberry ginger apple cider caught my eye at the counter. I couldn't resist. The barista was super friendly, and seemed to love what he was doing, which made me even more excited about my drink. They were honest that the drink wasn't overly sweet and the flavours were balanced.
At first sip, there was a huge hit of ginger, which I do not mind.... slowly, the cranberry and apple flavours emerge leveling all the tastebuds on your tongue. I was very satisfied with the entire cup and wish they had a larger size for future. I love mulled cider in which you get little pieces of apple and fruit closer to the end of your cup.
I didn't try the latte that S had but it must've been good because he didn't even offer to share :)
The chocolate butter tart looked SOOO good - will have to get it next time. -
Review from Justine H.
Toronto, ON
Restaurant: Dark Horse Espresso Bar
Cuisine: Coffee/Tea
Location: Chinatown
Address: 215 Spadina Ave
Price Range: ~$10
1: Poor 2: OK 3: Good 4: Very Good 5: Excellent
Food: 3
Service: N/A
Ambiance: 4
Overall: 3.5
Extra information:
*Large seating area
*Free wifi
*Lots of pastry/sweets option
*Specialize in Coffee, Tea and Espresso
I noticed this place when I was on my way to a restaurant in Chinatown for lunch because of their giant windows with the screen print, Dark horse Espresso Bar. I started drinking coffee more so recently (by coffee I mean Americano, mochas or lattes don't count!!) so I've been on the look out for a cool coffee spot other than Starbucks I can enjoy.
Once you walk in, you can see that this location is huge with high ceilings and roomy seating area. I was surprised to see they also had a 1/2 floor behind the counter. There is a silver plate decoration attached to their counter and it's just BEAUTIFUL.I am not much of a artsy person so I never really pay attention to interior decoration, but something about their counter really intrigued me.
With the brick wall and communal tables on the 1st floor right beside the giant windows, it seemed to be the perfect spot for people working on their laptop or reading a book.The 1 and 1/2 floor seating area had more regular tables and sofa for chill and relaxing atmosphere.
One of the few cool drinks option I noticed was the Hot lemonade and Cold espresso.
Ordered: ESPRESSO - N/A
*My mom has been on the search for good espresso ever since she tasted the 'authentic' one in Europe so I ordered a espresso for her
*Can't really comment because I didn't drink it but she said it was good
*I noticed they don't have brown sugar option at the side table though, some people prefer brown sugar so they might want to consider providing it
Ordered: REGULAR PECAN BUTTER TART - 3/5
*Small tart (maybe a size of your palm) for $5.50
*A little pricey for it's size
*Comes in regular or chocolate flavor
*This would be very good with coffee (Americano anyone?)
*Buttery Tart outside and gooey syrup inside
*It was overall very sweet, probably one of the sweetest pecan tarts I've ever tasted in my life
*I found the inside to be a little too syrupy, I prefer sticky filling over syrupy
One of the things I really liked about the Dark Horse Espresso Bar is that they don't play loud music inside their shop. I love Starbucks and I will never betray them but sometimes their music is just too loud which makes people talk louder. Maybe it's because I was sitting on one of the communal tables but there were lots of people studying which made it really relaxing and quiet.
Summary:
This would be the perfect spot to grab a coffee and a sweet either you are here alone to read a book, or meeting a friend to catch up. Beautiful interior (love the high ceiling, brick wall and their silver plating on the counter) and good coffee? I don't think I can ask for more! -
Review from Marie M.
9/25/2011 2 Check-ins Here
Best espresso ever in Toronto from a franchised establishment. Mon connaisseur d'espresso did not fail me and was right. Fresh, hot, rich, bold, smooth with earthy tones... everything anyone could want in an espresso could be found in a Dark Horse espresso, best enjoyed in their signature brown espresso cup on a matching saucer.
Their olive oil orange cupcake was amazing too: light and not too dense, it had a spongy texture with just the right amount of orange. I thought it was lovely, but my espresso connaisseur didn't think so.... maybe he's right or maybe I was just hungry from skipping lunch that afternoon.
For amazing espresso that will not disappoint, visit any Dark Horse location. Try the olive oil cupcakes too! -
Review from Grainne M.
Toronto, ON
1/22/2012 1 Check-in Here
Really enjoy the coffee here. It's proper, tasty, smooth and a nice change from Starbucks, Tim Hortons et al. The staff are mostly pleasant and they have some decent looking muffins, croissants etc. Nothing that I'd absolutely have to have-unusual for a carb craver such as me. Probably a good thing overall considering my expanding waistline.
Big/huge downside is the seating situation. People sit on laptops treating the place like their office while I circuit the 2 seating areas, pouting and trying not to scald myself. It's a pity that it puts me off going because it's not really Dark Horse's fault. It's a great place for a chat if you do find a seat so it's still worth a try! -
Review from Laura C.
Toronto, ON
8/28/2011 1 Check-in Here
I like the space here. Great for good conversation or casual meetings. The cappuccino looked amazing although I didn't get a chance to try. And bottled water and glasses did very nicely for me.
Odd that the washroom is shared by the others in the building, but not hard to find if you have the directions.
I know that this wouldn't be the most useful review, but I do like it in here. -
Review from Clare L.
8/5/2011
Things I love: Coffee, Ambience/Décor, Sweet Stuff (in no particular order) this place met all of my expectations for a good place to toss back the caffeine.
Coffee:
Espresso was tasty, smooth and then I went for an iced mocha afterwards, to give my semi-dulled senses a jolt due to a night of poor sleep at the airport, I love particularly how the mocha didn't taste like an espresso in cold milk, and a whole lot of super sugary bleh in it, but rather a nice dark chocolate that complimented the espresso rather than trying to mask it.
Ambiance/Décor
If I haven't said it before, I think I love communal tables. The only other thing I love more than a communal table, is a wooden, inviting communal table that you can picture a large family enjoying a meal together with natural light (think window), and warm, gentle glow from a non-intrusive light source (well shaded, non neon, non fluorescent light bulb). Chairs were a plenty, with many different shapes, comforts, couch-like, school chair like etc. exposed brick, wooden beams, lovely detailed framed mirror, wrought iron magazine holders, paintings -- loved all of it.
I loved how each table was different and promoted both animated group discussions, and intimate twosome chitchats. I loved the spacing between the tables, so you didn't feel like you were imposing on someone else's space, or overhear anyone's conversation. I love free internets!
Sweet Stuff
Sheep's Milk Yogurt with Fruit Compote, Granola, Honey Drizzle: I was both intrigued, and partially turned off by the idea.... so why did I order it? I love yogurt and granola for one thing, but then remember my experience with Sheep's Milk, I cringed slightly. I asked the barista for her opinion, and she sold it. She let me know it was not like the milk itself, it was a lighter taste, not as heavy as yogurt, and that she thought it was amazing, granola was crispy, and fruit compote was not too sweet. I had the option to have with or without honey and I opted for.
Got over my fear of Sheep's Milk and went for the first bite, and I LOVED IT. It was a lot like yogurt, but she was right, not as heavy, but still really filling. After seeing all the other goodies in the case, and even with my friend picking up a chocolate chip cookie, I still think that I made the most sold choice, (even though I eyeballed the salted caramel brownie til my eyes drooled). Side note: Chocolate chip cookie was a bit deceiving, looked moist and decadent, was a bit on the crisp side, but still good.
Desserts seemed to be made by a bakery called Circle and Squares, reasonably priced (coffee too) as per current market price. Oh and heck yes, I'd recommend this place. Dark Horse Wins! -
Review from Yi Qing S.
Toronto, ON
9/21/2011
A while ago I wrote a review in which I said that it was my first and probably would be my only 5-star review. Now I'm glad I said "probably", or I would've had to take back what I said, and you know how hard it it is to take back what you said on the internet. Because IT'S ALREADY OUT THERE. Well, in a cache somewhere, anyway.
Dark Horse is now officially one of my favourite places to get coffee, after having been there just once. I had walked past it a few times before finally going in, mostly because I had been short on time and rushing around running errands before, but mentally bookmarked it as a "to visit" coffee joint. And boy am I glad I followed through with it eventually!
The moment I walked into Dark Horse, I thought to myself, I have a good feeling about this. You know, like what Obi-Wan Kenobi said at the beginning of The Prequel That Shall Not Be Named, but with a more positive spin. It was bright, with high ceilings and an interior out of wood panelling, brick, and glass -- basically, the Mac-using, tech startup starting, caffeine-guzzling hipster's wet dream. It's smooth enough to attract a young, diverse, but respectable crowd, but not so smooth that you would feel out of place if none of the above descriptors apply to you.
I got myself an Americano and herbed goat cheese scone, which set me back just over $5 -- pretty doable. The coffee was great, as expected, and came in a nice, sturdy mug, which I appreciated since I have the unfortunate tendency to knock hot drinks onto things I really shouldn't knock hot drinks onto, like books. Or my lap. Or, y'know, somebody else's lap. The scone was also good -- nothing fantastic, but it did the trick. It would have been even better if it had been warmed beforehand.
The seating in Dark Horse is another thing that impressed me. Though somewhat unusual for a cafe, it grew on me as I sipped my coffee and people-watched. In the front end -- which is where I sat -- they have two large wooden tables in typical "open concept" fashion, and it really works. They're a nice touch since you feel less like lone islands like you often do in most other cafes, but more like part of an archipelago. It is the kind of pleasantness that comes from sitting with others but not being obligated to strike up conversation with them. You can just as well sit at these tables and work at your laptop or read the papers or brainstorm with a colleague while enjoying a muffin. However, if you really want the more classic cafe atmosphere, there is another seating area out back that is somewhat darker but also more intimate.
My only complaint is that the two tables out front could use more frequently cleaning/busing. Also, while the fact that you can help yourself to water is nice, the bottles that you pour it out of are just ridiculous and impractical. These aren't 5-star deal-breakers though, just minor pet peeves.
I'll be back at Dark Horse in no time, and you shouldn't waste any time getting your un-Dark Horsed ass down there for a cuppa either. -
Review from Jennifer K.
Markham, ON
When I stepped in this Dark Horse Espresso, I felt like I just transfer to somewhere else.... I did walk pass numerous Chinese/Vietnamese restaurants, supermarkets.. and elbowed myself through crowds of Chinese shoppers on the Spadina..and Dark Horse Espresso's vibes totally calm me down..............
Mind you, if you are in a hurry...and just want something fast, go to Starbucks down the street.. Here the barista really really take his/her time... and you have no choice but to chill...
Watching him making my cappuccino and pouring the foam milk to make the lovely latte art... was such an enjoyment in itself!
Seating can be a little tight... I end up sharing the communal tables with others and overlooking the big windows out on to Spadina... a little piece of paradise which I cherish! -
Review from Laura T.
Toronto, ON
3/22/2011 ROTD 10/21/2011
Dark Horse is a refreshing space spot to relax given all the coffee joints in Toronto! The eats & drinks are great but the atmosphere is what really does it for me!
The big glass window front provides a ton of natural light inside, especially if you're working at the communal tables on the main floor. It's definitely boisterous inside, not a quiet work space, but great for chatting with friends or hammering out some group work. For a slightly more low key space, up a split level staircase is another area with individual tables and a quieter vibe. Still not quiet, quiet though.
They have semi-decent treats - I had a piece of banana bread that was tasty but a little stale. My chai latta was quite tasty, not too sweet, just the way I like it. The prices are average for a slightly upscale coffee place (it's no Tim Hortons), but the environment is funky and upbeat. Two thumbs up... or four stars on the Yelp-o-meter. -
Review from Mich L.
3/21/2011
I heard about the expresso art so I made a point to stop by here when I last visited Toronto. The inside of DH was interesting, I had never seen a small coffee-shop that had communal tables before.
I tried to hide my clearly tourist motives by ordering a cappuccino, but I couldn't help shyly asking if what I ordered came with expresso art. The male hipster barista immediately started laughing at me. Ha-ha. Um, I was being serious. He mockingly posed my question to his fellow female hipster barista sarcastically several times, as if I weren't still standing there in line. She replied that my order didn't come with artwork, while she proceeded to make foam art in my cup.
The resulting cappuccino was beautiful but I was turned off by the baristas' attitudes. Sure, I may have been naive when it came to ordering but it was my first time and I asked in a polite manner. I didn't presume to exude an air like I knew anything about coffee.
When I sat down at the communal table, several hipsters pulled their macbooks away from me and pushed up their big glasses on their face, muttering grumpily. That's cool, you can dislike me and the rest of the world, but I bought coffee and you're just hogging wi-fi and seats, so I'm not even going to pretend to sympathize with your "struggles." Your bohemian look is all bought full-price at Urban Outfitters anyway.
All-in-all, the cappuccino was aesthetically-pleasing and tasted all right but I would only return here if all the hipsters started taking Prozac. -
Review from Michelle A.
Toronto, ON
3/20/2011 1 Check-in Here
Dark Horse has been catching my eye from the Spadina streecar for a few months now, so I was very eager to try this out for a coffee date one Saturday afternoon.
The prices and selection is very good. Not only do they have espresso and baked goods, but they also have large, gourmet sandwiches - which I always appreciate at a coffee shop! I had the green tea, which is loose leaf, cost $2 (flat) and comes in your own french-press style tea pot with a mug. I took a seat at one of the large communal tables, which was quite comfortable, although quite drafty/cold because it's right beside the door.
I suggest avoiding Saturday afternoons. It was a bit of a zoo from 2:30 to 3:30 with huge lineups and very few tables and chairs available. Due to its popularity, I think they're trying to discourage too much freelance-type work. While the communal tables were full of solo people reading and working, the wifi is only good for one hour and there aren't any outlets closeby.
Overall, the space is, visually, very appealing with plenty of bright bold colours. The main floor has two large communal tables, and a row of bar stools. The upstairs area, located behind the counter, has more of a relaxed vibe with more comfortable seats.The shop is located in a refurbished old building that also houses the Social Innovation Centre - it's a lovely workspace with a live plant wall, which you will explore if you need to use the washroom (it's out the doors and up the stairs). It'd be a wonderful spot to have closeby if I worked nearby or wanted a great drink to go, but I wouldn't go out of your way for it.Listed in: Coffee faves
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Review from Elvis A.
5/24/2011 2 photos
Having walked past this place a few times I wanted to try this spot. Finally I got to it today and ordered a Cappuccino. My friend had an americano and we ordered a Biscotti for good measure.First the Cappuccino Nice crema' on the shot. Good texture on the foam and as you can see from the picture a nice finish for latte art. As for the taste I think better than other joint around that area (hint hint Sense Cafe')
My friend commented that for an americano it was weak and she didn't get the coffee fix she desired (something to do with the taste being not to her liking)
As for Biscotti nothing to write home about. The ambiance is awesome BTW.
I would give 3.5 stars overall. -
Review from Tako T.
Toronto, ON
5/3/2011
This is a really great location to relax with a cup of coffee or to sit down and focus on getting some hard work done. The coffee is great and the snacks are scrumptious. They have the coffee shop basics down but the carefully crafted atmosphere is what really makes this Dark Horse location perfectly ideal.
Situated in China Town, this coffee shop enjoys an even flow of customers and seems to always have a seat for me to sit, no matter what time of day I walk in. The expansive windows allow for your body to bath in copious amounts of natural light when you sit down at one of the communal tables up front. Though these seats tend to fill up quickly with individuals keen on getting work done. Though, there is also seating in the back, behind the bar, for more intimate conversations catering to those who enjoy a cushy place to sit .
I got a mocha the first time I went here. My eyes felt like they were going to pop out of their sockets when I saw how much mocha syrup was being squirted into my cup. I asked the barrista to scoop some of it out since I do actually like to taste some coffee. Though, surprisingly my mocha wasn't ridiculously sweet, despite the barrista only taking out about a tea spoon worth of syrup. My drink was warm enough to drink right away but I would have preferred it hotter so I would be able to enjoy it longer.
Don't expect the hustle and bustle of a Starbucks here, as the staff here take their time to make your coffee while pleasantly chatting with you. If you're in a hurry you might want to grab a quick shot somewhere else. The espresso art will differ depending on how experienced your barrista is as their craft, mine was okay.
All in all come visit Dark Horse for the great environment! Everything else is on par, not disappointing but not entirely satisfying. -
Review from Dishan W.
11/13/2010 2 Check-ins Here
Been here twice now and both times were very pleasant yet different experiences. I love the huge glass wall facing the street and the second floor of seating.
I've not been to a whole lot of coffee places in Toronto but from the few I've experienced Dark Horse takes the prize for my favourite latte. It's the right amount of strength for me. Also had their mocha latte, which was good but didn't blow me away though.
After reading some of the other reviews I cant help but smile at the accuracies of the description on the type of people that are a majority here. I struck up a conversation with a person at my table who was working on her sketches and through that conversation we discovered that there were no outlets to plug one's laptop in (on both floors) which is a big flaw since the first floor was full of people typing away on the 2 large communal tables. But good in a way as it ensures that people don't spend ages on their computers here?
I've had their ginger cookie and sun dried tomato (plus a couple of other stuff) panini and they were both very well done. Not the greatest panini I've had but still spectacular. I wish the staff were a little bit more friendly though. They're not mean spirited by any means but just don't seem to go that extra mile, but it's always busy at the counter so maybe on quieter hours they would be different?
Since it's not too far from my usual downtown haunts I forsee the Dark Horse playing a larger part in my life, I'm just glad that it's great for sit in or coffee on the go as they do keep their line moving fast!Listed in: Caffeine Adventures!
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Review from jocelyn j.
Mississauga, ON
4/21/2011
Hmmmm....Dark Horse don't really know what to say except the environment is one to be awarded, however the coffee that day was nothing special, in fact not really that good. I asked for an americano and got a watered down espresso. Yes I do know that is what an americano is, but it did not have any flavour and was not what I was expecting as I have been told this is one of the better coffee spots in the city. I beg to differ an Americano with no crema???.
I was unfortunately disappointed with the quality of the coffee as I need an americano to wake me up and as of late I am determined to find a coffeeshop that I can call a second home, and dark horse disapointed, maybe I expected way too much from all the hype but it didn't come close to the hype.
I gave this 2 stars, two of which are for the great interior and communal tables, something I have only witnessed while traveling through London's coffee scene. The staff was OK (doing their job) but not really engaging and when I ask what they were using for espresso I kind of got an odd look as if I was some sort of spy from another coffee shop.
The wifi was a nightmare and passing on my cell phone number to get a password is insane in today's ID theft world, get an unlimited plan .
Overall I was disappointed with the quality of such a coffee shop with such a great reputation but if you can sell coffee based on a cool environment then so be it, but that was the first and last of my Dark Horse adventures. -
Review from Vivek S.
Updated - 10/22/2010 6 Check-ins Here
It be-HOOVES you to try the 2nd floor mezzanine at Dark Horse. There is various seatings up there to accomodate the myriad moods of hip Torontonians. Kitchen style chairs, leather seats at coffee tables, easy chairs, and tables in both circle and square.
I didn't mention last this time: there is free wi-fi. You just need to get a password sent to your phone via SMS every hour or so. No biggie.Listed in: Top Coffee Shops, Lions and Tigers and Bears, Chinatown, Kommunal Kaffeeklatsch
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/9/2010
Dark Horse on Spadina is an excellent spot to grab a coffee and bask in a cool and inviting… Read more »
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Review from Rafi N.
Toronto, ON
12/31/2010
This is a really nice coffee shop. It is well decorated and looks like an authentic, hip cafe. There are plenty of seats on the ground floor and a few steps up on the second floor.
The smell when you walk in is good - like real coffee. I can't stand the stench in Tim Horton's and how it stays on your clothes.
The staff are friendly and helpful and there is free wi-fi.
The pricing is more than the typical chain, but rest assured, you're getting better quality.
I haven't tried everything on the menu, but I'll definitely be back.Listed in: Psychoactive Stimulants
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Review from Sara N.
9/8/2010
Uh.. Yee-uhm.
While trolling through the garment district in downtown Toronto with my Mum and sister, I needed a jolt of caffeine. Looking for fabric to outfit Nicole's brand new floor-to-ceiling condo windows, was no easy task. I have to admit, I was a tad jealous. New condo with a rooftop pool, right on Yonge and Bloor? My NYC apartment doesn't quite compare; but let's be honest, NYC isn't quite Toronto, either.
Anyhoo, as I was saying, I needed a happy-tasting and happy-feeling injection of caffeine. Dark Horse Espresso was my saviour. Loved the brick and wood interior -- had the feel and casualty of cottage chic with the modernity of a renovated industrial loft. My favourite were the sparkly chandeliers. Now about that coffee.. the cappucinos and lattes are frothy, espresso-y, and hot. Perfection.
The staff is friendly enough with a slight air of snootiness -- not necessarily in a bad way, but hey, they know their coffee is the shit. I don't take such passings personally and if you don't either, you won't be disappointed. The patrons that make Dark Horse their temporary office and working space are, what I would consider, Toronto cool -- an incubator of great ideas and conversation.
I usually feel at lost in the city I grew up in, not having lived here for quite some time; but places like Dark Horse remind me how easy it is to find myself again. Familiar, relaxed, yet brimming with creativity. Oh, and delicious coffee. -
Review from Lupillo R.
Toronto, ON
10/13/2010
This place looks so cool. I've wanted to go in every time I've passed by and today I finally did. I love the exposed brick walls, metallic counter, big menu, and the seating.
My coffee was very good and the caramel banana bread I ordered was great. I don't know if it was homemade but it certainly tasted like it. Prices were comparable to Starbucks or Second Cup but I found the quality here a bit better, especially the baked goods.
My only complaint is that I wish it were a bit bigger, perhaps another floor or something. Seating is limited and my friend and I ended up sharing a table with a girl who appeared to be doing homework. The free wi-fi and cool environment seems to make people want to linger long after they've finished their coffee. -
Review from Renata R.
8/27/2010 1 Check-in Here
You know, those places where you go to relax, work, write your yelp reviews, and, meanwhile, grab a cup of decent coffee and a muffin? Dark Horse is exactly for these situations.
I'm yet to have a coffee there that is truly amazing, but I like the ambiance and the food, so, whenever I'm around, I feel attracted to it just to ask for a cup of cappuccino and sit down, read my e-mails, relax... chillout.
This place WOULD BE GREAT if they had awesome coffee and baristas that at least talk to you.Listed in: Coffee & Muffins
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Review from Eleni D.
Toronto, ON
11/25/2010
I'll admit it: drinking my latte in this indie coffee shop makes me feel just a little bit cooler. Like I'm part of this young, hip, urban downtown crowd that shuns the big coffee chains and buys fair-trade everything (I'm not).
My coffee is always spectacular and finished off with pretty latte art, but for a place that has communal tables meant to inspire conversation and community - I don't see much of that. I hate to say it, but I've seen more people interaction at Starbucks. -
Review from WaYnE c.
Maple, ON
8/27/2010 1 photo
I stepped in the DOOR to walk towards the counter but there was a Barista with a broom sweeping up what looked to be a glass mug broken right in front of the counter. Stepping aside I waited for the Barista to dump the junk to order... Waited for him to clear the counter/tray full of empty cups to order...
When he asked, I saw Cappucinno to go. As he continued to put the empties away I waited. As he got ready and mingled with others behind the counter I waited. WORTH the wait as the shot pulled into the paper cup looked so amazing. He then made his signature milk pour and it was a work of art as most people have expectations for but don't realize how many hours it takes to perfect.
I had a previous ENCOUNTER here before where the Baristas where just as good and I took a seat on the upper level. It has its mix of CHIC lighting mixed with Wooden worn elements. I think it's not one of those places I can feel comfortable in, maybe I'm too RUGGED and uncool for this setting. Maybe I'm right!Listed in: Coffee Drinks, T.O.urist in Town
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Review from Lauren M.
9/21/2010 6 Check-ins Here
Kick ass espresso? Check
Amazing coffee? Check
Free wi-fi? Check
Bonus points for the modern, yet homey, decor.
Both my visits were at 7:50am, when this place is deliciously empty, so I can't comment on it being packed. -
Review from Giselle g.
Toronto, ON
9/17/2010
I like a good coffee and I think the atmosphere in which the coffee is drunk is extremely important, but Dark Horse didn't work for me.
First of all, I'm not a coffee purist. I like drip coffee, not americanos. Dark Horse doesn't have drip coffee on the menu.
So I bought a $3 americano, and I have to say, I didn't like it.
I didn't like how long it took the (very attractive) hipster boy to make said coffee. I also didn't like how there was no place to sit and drink it. This was late on a Saturday afternoon.
The long tables remind me of study halls. I didnt get any sense of a social atmosphere, as everyone seemed to be using a computer or texting like mad.
The experience left me feeling sort of alienated and annoyed at the same time. -
Review from Eric L.
3/1/2011 1 Check-in Here
Their Mocha Latte is just amazing. When I think about it, I hate paying 4$ for a cup, but every once in a while I guess it's ok to spoil yourself. Although there is rarely a place to sit, the staff is quick and they know how
to make some good stuff out of coffee beans. I'm not a huge fan of coffee shops, but I can tell this is a 5 star type of place. -
Review from Jason K.
Mississauga, ON
11/16/2010
Another review, another rant... This is getting way too ridiculously predictable.
I've come here twice and both times been utterly disappointed by the lack of knowledge and quality. The ambiance, of course, is quite good and likely the reason why this place is so popular.
The last time I went, I asked for a ristretto and was met with a vacant look and slack jawed "a what?". The other "barista" leaned over and said to her stunned workmate "it's a short espresso". Um, yeah, I mean NOOOOO
Well I didn't want to take my chances so I asked her just to make it however they usually do. What I got was a horrid, mouth puckeringly sour espresso with no redeeming bitter or chocolate notes. Thin and watery-- ugh!!
My friend got a cappuccino-- another coffee disaster. The barista had made a design in the foam, but the bubbles in the frothed milk were so huge it was more like some kind of Neolithic cave painting than latte art.
The actual building is quite cool, feels almost like a converted book store or library. But if you are going to include the words "Espresso Bar" in your business name, you really ought to be able to produce at least a 3-star espresso.
I haven't been to the one on Queen (right by one of my faves, Mercury Espresso Bar), maybe it's better than the Dundas location. -
Review from Christine D.
North York, ON
9/12/2010
The atmosphere...green, clean hipster. The staff... not all that friendly to be honest. Not quite sure if I like the giant tables out front...looks better than it is... I'm social, but I don't want to have coffee with 12 other random people... ;)
So why the four stars?...
Great great coffee...only problem... it's so good you'll want another! -
Review from Michelle G.
Toronto, ON
10/9/2010 1 Check-in Here
I went to here the other day. It had a lot of places to sit (most of which were occupied), free wifi, but no power outlets that I could find.
The latte I had was beautiful, but not super exciting flavourwise. I've been spoiled entirely by the Sam James Espresso Bar. The one from here, was probably the second best one I've had in the city so far though.
It seems like the perfect place for both hanging out (there are cozy spaces behind the coffee bar) and group work (they have giant tables by the windows) and it's a great location (close to Kensiginton Market.)
They do charge extra for soy milk, and it was the second most expensive latte I've had, but I loved the space and would definitely go there again. Of the food items they had available, I saw a couple vegan cookies from Sweets From the Earth which was nice. -
Review from Spiro P.
Toronto, ON
12/18/2010
I wanted to order drip coffee and was told that it's an espresso bar and that they don't have drip coffee. Fine, I asked for the french press and the barrista told me that they didn't have anymore because they were given out. I asked for coffee brewed with the siphon and she told me that no one knows how to make it. Finally, I was able to order a latte and I was not impressed.
Manic coffee on College and Bathurst serves a better selection of drinks and they all taste better. -
Review from Toronto L.
Toronto, ON
7/9/2011
the Toronto Lover system:
5 stars = Must visit!
4 stars = Really good. I take my friends here.
3 stars = Somewhat worth it... if you have nowhere better to go.
2 stars = Below average. Attend only when necessary.
1 star = Do not visit!
My review for Dark Horse Espresso on Spadina Avenue will be nearly identical to my review for Dark Horse on Queen Street West, save that this is the nicer of the two. If I could go to 4.5 stars, I would. Dark Horse Espresso is put together with such care and good taste that your expectations will certainly rise when you walk in. The atmosphere is lovely and comfortable, with open space and good natural light. Expect to see all types because of the location: students, tourists, businesspersons, cyclists... This will be a downtown staple, if it's not already.
Everything here is great. Try a sweet cookie bursting with delicious ingredients like toffee and almonds, and definitely go for the coffee. They can do anything you expect, including the standards: Americano, Cappuccino, Espresso, and they put a real effort into the beans and production of your beverage. Well furnished, quiet enough for a conversation, and cozy enough to get some work done. I recommend the large communal table near the front for the full experience as well as the awesome view of the street. Personally, I'd like to see everything on the menu cost $1 less, but you can't have everything. Almost perfect.
4 stars -
Review from Erin S.
Toronto, ON
9/19/2010
I walked by Dark Horse on one of my first days in Toronto, and it was so pretty that I immediately put it on my list of must-visit places. Made it in for the first time yesterday, and I definitely wasn't disappointed! The Earl Grey tea was delicious and made in one of those cute glass mini-bodums. And only $2 for a good amount of delicious, loose-leaf tea...I love it when I find places like that.
I found the big tables to be quite nice - everyone realizes it's a bit odd, but mostly they're there because they like it. So it's fine, and it feels nice not to isolate yourself in a corner sometimes! There were also smaller tables up in a mezzanine, I believe. I'll check that out next time. -
Review from Nicole H.
Toronto, ON
9/17/2010 6 Check-ins Here
* Food and drink
- They once had some great treats from Sweets of the Earth, but I haven't seen anything on offer from them in ages. Haven't tried the other food.
- Their brand of soy milk isn't great - i'm nearly always left with residue at the end of my drink
- Coffee is great when it's good, but i've had one or two bitter experiences
- Iced drinks are lovely (although with the soy milk issue it's ruined a bit)
- Teas are done in a french press and are great quality. Mm!
* Surroundings
- The building it's in is just generally lovely.
- Decor is very lovely - the old bowling lane communal tables are terrific! And the nice big front windows are great for ogling the world as it goes by.
- Up the back is nice if you want to have a sit and chat with friends, but it can be hard to get a seat; communal tables are good if you're on your own but i've had people sneer at me for sitting there with a friend or two and talking.
*Other
- Really handy to the streetcar and to Chinatown/Kensington.
- Great free use of washroom even if you just walk straight through DH - it's my downtown saviour.
I think if DH wasn't so hit and miss coffee-wise, then it'd grab that fourth star no problem. Change that soy milk, people!Listed in: Caffeine Nation: The Toronto…
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Review from Gillian A.
Toronto, ON
2/2/2011 4 Check-ins Here
This is my favourite place to get coffee downtown! Seating can be problematic, but the coffee is amazing, the barristas are really nice and you can even get your own coffee press to use while you're there! I may be a little *too* excited about that.
It's a great place to go and read or get some work done. Je l'aime. -
Review from Tae-Sun K.
7/16/2011
I really enjoyed this place. This was the first coffee house I'd ever been where they hand you your coffee with a french press. Brilliant! The coffee was so good and because I had the press, I could refill it without leaving my seat. Great location, in the heart of Chinatown.
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Review from Kat F.
Went back to Dark Horse for a second shot at getting some work done and was quite productive! It turns out that the one hour wi-fi limit is imposed by the building that houses Dark Horse, not the café itself. Phew! In exchange for a stunning ambiance and old world charm, I'll take the tiny quirk of having to resubmit a password request for free wi-fi once an hour.
If you can find a seat in this popular café, grab it and get to work! Popular spot to meet colleagues, friends and maybe even good for a date (but take note: it closes early).Listed in: Caffeinate Thyself
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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6/19/2009
I wish I had been able to spend more time at Dark Horse Espresso, especially after reading all the… Read more »
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Review from Pearl C.
Toronto, ON
7/31/2010 1 Check-in Here
My favourite place to have someone make coffee for me. :) :)
From their americanos to their iced lattes, I've never been disappointed. I even took my bf's mom there once and she actually said it was the best coffee she's ever had in her entire life.
The ambiance is pretty good but, unless I'm there with someone, I don't usually get my coffee to stay.
They have a tasty selection of baked goods -- a lot of them vegan and not really my thing but the butter tarts are sooooooo very good. -
Review from Fabio N.
Toronto, ON
9/28/2010 6 Check-ins Here
This place makes you feel you're never cool enough to have coffee there.
As you might have guessed, this can be both good and bad. It's always full of hipsters with macbooks pretending to write a movie script or the next pop novel bestseller. Of course they aren't *real* hipsters because the prices are not low enough for that kind of public. On the other hand, most hipsters only pretend to look poor whilst riding $1000 fixie bikes fresh from MEC.
The decoration is really impressive, with large tables, ample spaces, lots of natural light and a rustic-chic feel. It's indeed a very nice place to hangout. Plus the localization is really good, really close to the Toronto Underground Cinema and other points on interest along Spadina.
The coffee is actually very good. Their espresso is a little on the acid side for my taste (Manic is still king!), but it's top stuff nonetheless. The latte is incredible, as are the cold drink options. Since it's on my way from work, I sometimes stop there to close the day on a high note.
Now I only need a fixie, ridiculous large glasses and a pose to be considered a regular.Listed in: Best coffee
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Review from Tammy Y.
Toronto, ON
6/9/2009
To be fair, I'm not a big coffee drinker. I'm the one who goes to Dark Horse Espresso to get a "seasonal" apple cider and a cookie. But hey, I figure that cider and cookie still leaves your customer with an impression, so here it goes.
Despite the fact that it was listed as "seasonal", I couldn't help but suspect that my apple cider was nothing but steamed Tropicana apple juice (as many a place does). However, the crusty remnants of powder along the rim would lead me to believe otherwise. Average.
Picked myself up an Everything cookie after getting a craving for a cupcake (all this talk of Sneaky Dee's cupcakes on here triggered my sweet tooth!). The cookie was one of those big flat crunchy ones - had chocolate bits, nuts, I think raisins. Altogether, it had promise, but perhaps too many flavours together negating one another out? Maybe because I secretly just wanted a cupcake. For the cookie and mug of cider ran me about $5.50 or so.
That being said, I didn't show up for the nosh. I just wanted to sit there and soak up the incredible ambience of the place - it's unlike anywhere I've ever been in Toronto. Can I say that it feels "very New York"? I shared the large communal table with a pair of webbish looking guys mulling over a laptop, a focused and furious writer, a sort-of trendy businessdude who was on his laptop and cell the whole time and evidently hopped up on too many french-presses, a new-age goth guy at his respective laptop wearing polarized sunglasses and headphones, and a couple of hip lassies gabbing about their gay friend.
So on that end, they certainly exceeded expectations. Okay fine, I'll give you guys 3 stars for that. -
Review from lindsay s.
Toronto, ON
3/29/2010
I won't be returning based on my first visit.
First impression:
- Everyone has an Apple laptop, all set up, looking like they've been there for hours and hours, sipping the same cup of coffee ... I guess everyone who 'works remotely' lives at this place. They all looked like they were painfully trying to look cool & hip.
- The communal table would be a great concept, if people actually got up and left every so often. (see comment above)
- Hipster heaven. Lots of Rayban sunglasses, early 90's Nike high top runners & people who look they were fully dressed at Urban Outfitters.
I think this is where they all go to commune.
- No eye contact by the would-be cute server guy, until i realized i don't think he's the sharpest tool in the shed, as he asked me if I wanted my 'iced coffee' cold. ugh. fail.
While this place is a wicked cool place (exposed wood beams, etc), the people who occupy the space kinda turn me off.
Plus, the service sucked.
Too slow & distracted 'baristas', who were too busy continuing there conversations to make me my drink in any decent amount of time.
Too bad my iced coffee was gooood.
Everything else turned me off.
Quickly. -
Review from Cat F.
8/9/2009
Great brew & ambiance! We ordered an americano, a soy latte and cranberry scone and all were great. I'm a huge tea drinker and so I was very pleased to see David's Tea being served here. The community tables, high ceilings and extra seating in the back are highlights in addition to the actual coffee. Service was good and I appreciated the lovely little leaf design in my foam.
I'm giving it 4 stars b/c although it was great, it is noticeably more expensive than Starbucks but not impressive enough to justify that extra cost. I also did not appreciate the strong smell of smoke that wafted in from smokers standing right outside the doors.
