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Mercury Espresso Bar
Category: Food Coffee & Tea Coffee & Tea [Edit]
915 Queen St EToronto, ON M4M 1J4
Neighbourhood: Leslieville
(647) 435-4779
- Hours:
Mon-Fri 6:30 am - 8 pm
Sat 7:30 am - 8 pm
Sun 8 am - 8 pm
- Price Range:
-
$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- No
- Parking:
- Street
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
48 reviews for Mercury Espresso Bar
Review Highlights
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"Good Cappuccino, nice staff." In 9 reviews -
"...ask to make sure whoever the barista is, knows what he/she..." In 6 reviews -
"They have a great Americano." In 7 reviews
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48 reviews in English
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Review from Corey D.
Mercury Espresso Bar to me is like Te Aro's ruffian little brother.
Let me set it up for you. They too do amazing things with beans for Leslieville, but have an added gruffness that gives the place quite a personality. The day I was there it was loud and in your face, but not in an obtrusive way. It reminded me of a fair where there is SO much to see, SO much to do, you wonder how long you'll be able to tolerate it, but you also can't imagine yourself anywhere else. Both gents working that day were delightful! Hilarious, accommodating and good for some chit-chat. And can we chat about the facial hair sich here. Everyone is so coiffed, so trimmed, so beard-y.
They have free WIFI, a decent selection of tea and play some pretty mean jams. I wouldn't suggest you have your next work meeting, interview of Skype sesh here, but if you're looking for something with a lot of character and charm, and by charm I mean put 'em in a headlock and give them a nuggie charm, this is your place! -
Review from Eric T.
Toronto, ON
I love their iced cappuccinos! It's the perfect blend of espresso and milk. While an iced cappuccino isn't a proper bar drink, it is delicious way to get your caffeine on a hot day. Most places make them waaaay to milky. These guys get it right! They're non-iced cappuccinos and americanos are also first-rate. It helps that they use excellent beans from kick-ass roasters like Social Coffee Company and George Howell.
I also love the decor, hipster baristas and great patio, but the lack of A/C indoors and no visa make me sad. -
Review from Michael F.
ON
In a neighbourhood with 5 very good independent coffee shops within walking distance, Mercury is my favourite.
For me, it's all about the coffee, and this is where Mercury shines. My drink of choice (an Americano) comes out perfect, with a natural sweetness to it and just the right amount of crema on top.
After being exposed to a daily Americano from Mercury, I found it difficult to have one from places like Starbucks again. This place truly turned me into a coffee snob.
It does make a difference which person makes your drink. I find some employees at Mercury do a much better job than others.
There are two things keeping this place from a 5 - first, it 's incredibly hot in there with no air conditioning. I'm told they might have it this summer, so we'll see. Nobody wants to come out sweating after going into to grab a morning coffee.
Second, they made the sizes smaller. Yes, I know it's the same amount of espresso. I liked the larger cup. It allowed me to grab a large, go for a walk, and have it last for a while. -
Review from Graham T.
Toronto, ON
Mercury is my favorite coffee house. I have been going there since it opened.
Staff appear cooler than you because they are in fact cooler than you. -
Review from Tina H.
Super friendly, lots of energy... Must be all that perfectly pulled espresso.
Cortado was very awesome. Chocolate chip cookie was pretty good. Decaf Americano was kinda bad, but it's very rare to find a good decaf so they're forgiven. They said it was the best decaf espresso in the city... I can't say I've tried another but if that's the best then that's a sad state of affairs for decaf espresso. I love the taste of espresso, I just don't want to get jittery if I stay for more than one drink.
Atmosphere is not the most conducive to working because the unrecognizable (by me) music is a bit loud and people are talking above it, and when the sun set it got extremely cold, but their wifi is fast and reliable. I didn't see any outlets but I didn't stay long enough to need one.
I must repeat that their cortado was amazing. It was extremely delicious and one of the top ones I've had. Cortado or flat white and a chocolate chip cookie is my favourite combo and these people did it right. If you want tasty espresso based drinks, here's a great spot. I'll definitely be back (but not when it's too cold out). They're friendly and the espresso is delicious. The atmosphere may not be as nice as the nearby Dark Horse but I prefer this place because they have better cookies. -
Review from Sharon F.
East York, ON
The eternal debate among Leslievilleans is where to go for their coffee - Mercury or Te Aro Roasted? The little grungy guy or the spacious giant with fresh roast in your face? Being exposed to loud indie music, or trusted moody pop? Random bluegrass double bass or monthly cupping seminars?
Though I don't live in the area, I definitely sink a lot of coin into Leslieville. Since my life has yet to revolve around a stroller, Mercury is typically my preferred spot of the two, despite having a pretty significant stamp card at Te Aro. When my favourite barista at Crema (Yonge & Bloor) migrated to Mercury, I followed him because apparently it was one of the best placed to obsess over coffee in the city.
Not that the environment or people have much to do with their espressos. The drinks at Mercury are at the top of the Toronto espresso food chain. They are the rulers of the Serengeti, so to speak. Try a cortado and you will see. It is thick and creamy with a balanced flavour that brings out the espresso but softens the bitterness.
Don't let anyone tell you otherwise; Mercury is worth a visit.Listed in: Best Cortados in Toronto
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Review from Jennifer K.
Markham, ON
I really feel for the friendly guys that work inside Mercury Espresso Bar! It was so hot and stuffy inside. I was sweating while sipping my Cappuccino ($3.50) with no air conditioning or fans....
I ended up taking refuge on their outdoor patio. Luckily their wifi signal was strong enough, so I have no problem uploading my photos using my Yelp App.
I wish there are more electronic outlets, as my phone was almost dead and in great need of charging.....
Cappuccino was A-OK! But the things that impressed me the most are the friendly staffs... I will be back! -
Review from Lisa O.
Toronto, ON
I love this place!
They serve freaking fantastic coffee. I can't even bring myself to drink nasty ass Starbucks Americanos anymore, thanks to this place.
Highly, highly recommend if you're into coffee that tastes good. They also sell beans you can't get anywhere else in the city, if you're into making your own at home. -
Review from Faye C.
This is a neighbourhood gem!
The folks at Mercury know their coffee. Love love love love love their americanos. They recently changed the size though..."it's the same amount of espresso..now with less water". Either way it's definitely delish and worth visiting.
It's a little cold now to use their patio - but it's definitely a crowd favourite!
PS. their ginger cookies are amazing -
Review from Aaron C.
Victoria, BC
I'm really torn when it comes to my feelings for Mercury.
On one hand, the espresso lover in me wants to rave about their place. They are true lovers of their craft and its reflected in their beverages. Whatever you decide to order, the likelihood that you will walk away with a finely crafted beverage that is incredibly delicious is very high. I'm personally a fan of their lattes and cortados, which have never disappointed me.
The staff is also knowledgeable and friendly, and can generally answer any question you may have without pretensions.
On the flip side; while a purveyor of fine espresso they may be, a warm and friendly atmosphere for sitting in is something I've consistently been left without. I love to sit and enjoy my espresso beverages in a nice and friendly environment, and that's often why I opt for the much more inviting Te Aro just down the street. Every time I've gone to Mercury, the music has been at an uncomfortably high level. Paired with their lack of sufficient AC in the summer months, sitting inside proves to be far more arduous than I'd like.
To sum it up; if you're looking for a quality espresso to go, Mercury is a great bet. If you want a good, relaxing environment to go with, maybe head for neighboring spots Te Aro or Darkhorse. -
Review from Vivian W.
I agree with other yelpers' reviews.
Not enough outlet, so it's not a good place for you, if you plan to do some work on your laptop.
It's a retro design, so no A/C...really stuffy during the hot summer
Also, I don't like their chairs at the bench that's facing the window. The chair top is made of torn straw, so they stick to your clothing and bags (my laptop bag was a victim after that day)
I had their Americano and Cortado before, the Americano was OK...the Cortado was good.
And, they only accept Cash! -
Review from Erwin M.
what else can i say. excellent coffee. Had the flat white and the mocha and they were both prepared as great as I could possibly expect. easily as good as the best i've had in Toronto. Now I get why this place has such high ratings.
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Review from Kevin W.
East York, ON
I`m gonna start off by saying Mercury revolutionized the way I look at and enjoy coffee! I went from drinking shit to being a huge snob about what I drink and now there are only a few places I go for a good cup of coffee.
My drink of choice at Mercury is like a lot of people, an Americano, and it is always good. I have had some disappointing Lattes, and some poorly steamed milk but the espresso is always boss. Unfortunately since the departure of Co-Owner Matthew Taylor I personally feel like the quality is slipping and that sucks! I feel like only half the staff even give a shit about making good drinks, I`m used to the people there thinking they are cooler then everyone else, it was okay because they made the best drinks in the city! Now, not so much... It`s ridiculous that I order a large Americano and its only filled 3/4 full, if that. They just stopped putting as much effort into it, maybe they think they can just ride on the cafe`s stellar reputation but I`m getting a little tired of being disappointed. So basically I`m saying give a shit about every drink you put out because that`s why people go to your shop, to get the best. -
Review from Vivek S.
This Leslieville local is a big ol' room that smells like sweet, sweet coffee. It's like a cube of caffeine. Their brewed coffee (pressed actually) is in their own words, "not terrible" so I'd suggest an espresso instead. It's in their name after all -- and they do it very well.
I've had a few of the espressos but my favourite is the cortado. On one occasion they made and remade it while I watched in rapt attention as they try to get the pour perfect. Though this might seem amateurish, it's far from that; they just really give a shit about serving a solid coffee. Plus, it's fun to observe what's going on behind the scenes.
Though they have free Wifi (the password is on a George Bush playing card) this is more of a chill spot than a work spot. Outlets are hard to find, the music is pretty loud, and the layout isn't too conducive to productivity. But if you want to killer coffee in Leslieville, go here. Do not delay.
Obligatory Title Pun: MERCURY will get a RISE outta you.
Menu Readability: Two large chalkboards with childlike printing.
Need to mention: Everyone who works here has facial hair. Is this a rule or something?
What this place teaches me about myself: I can't get enough of the sound of a steaming wand.Listed in: Queen Street Address, Top Coffee Shops, Leslieville Locals
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Review from David M.
Toronto, ON
These people take their coffee seriously. They won't even serve a macchiato, cortado or espresso in a to-go cup. You gotta drink it there, the way it should be.
I'm a fan.Listed in: Coffee
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Review from Original E.
Toronto, ON
It's a Goddamn treasure chest!
Now and then I like to spoil myself, these cats know how to spunk up a coffee.
Forget about the yuppies, they can wipe my ass for all I care!
I'm just talking bout the nectar of Gods, the smooth jolt of caffeine oozing through your veins, ahhhh...
Barista with the starched moustache (also neatly gelled hair) has it right, ask him a coffee question and 9/10 he'll have an answer.
http://www.youtube.com...
Mercury Espresso has my respect: "been there way before the posers moved in, and me sure they be there long after they gone."
They're the O.G's of coffee art along Queen East.
Only other place in town that I would put them up against: Jet fuel Coffee. -
Review from Danielle D.
Toronto, ON
I've stopped by here for brews every now and again, but a few weeks ago decided to "dine in" and partake in a macchiato, a definite luxury for somebody who is lactose intolerant!
It's really annoying when places carry soy or almond milk for coffee drinkers to pour as a milk substitute but don't offer lactose-free milk to still get that excellent foam-age for lattes, cappuchinos or what have you, but Mercury won me over by offering it for my macchiato and then making one that was totally kickass.
What resulted is a happy little camper reading Michael Chabon with a rich, nutty, sweet macchiato at the low-bar table.
Warning to ladies in skirts: the stools at the high-bar table are made of BURLAP and will itch you through your tights, BELIEVE ME. -
Review from Rachel L.
Toronto, ON
I am a serious espresso drinker. Mercury is an espresso bar. I ordered the eponymous drink and it was one of the highlights of my week. A nice roasted initial sip that ends with an amazing fruity aftertaste. Perfection.
After I finished my drink, I went up to the barista and thanked him for sharing his craft. He thanked me for making his day. Trust me, the pleasure really was mine. -
Review from Eliah H.
Toronto, ON
For those who love coffee, perhaps a little too much (hee hee), Mercury Espresso Bar is one of Toronto's main go-to cafes for the best of that liquid black magic. I think what makes Mercury such a hit with coffee drinkers is that not only are their baristas knowledgeable about the coffee they serve and quite skilled at pulling espresso shots or getting the Chemex brewed just right, but also that the owners are hardcore coffee geeks who are always on the hunt for the tastiest roasted coffee beans.
In fact, just recently Mercury switched from Intelligentsia coffee, considered one of the best suppliers of roasted coffees in the world, to Terroir Coffee located in Acton, Massachusetts simply because the owners felt the beans superior. Any which way, the customer stands to win with a yummy cup of coffee. Not only, they welcome customer feedback so that they can fine tune their offerings.
Prices are on par with other indie coffee houses. The establishment is small but cozy and unpretentious. Staff are friendly and enthusiastic. I will knock'm a half star though for not having any regular brewed coffee available for take out past 4PM (they're open till 8PM). With considerable competition in the area Mercury still stands out and I recommend you dropping by. 4 1/2 stars.Listed in: Eliah's Big List of Go To…
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Review from Ksenja T.
During our Sunday afternoon stroll in Leslieville, we decided to get two lattes from Mercury Espresso Bar instead of Te Aro just to try something new. Very unpretentious spot, relaxed vibe and the aroma hits you as soon as you walk in. The baristas had cool style, thumbs up for the confident one with the low cut shirt (and hairy chest on display :p). The lattes were pretty good, not bad, but not the best latte I've ever had. I would definitely purchase them again though. They sure beat any chain.
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Review from Cameron O.
Toronto, ON
As a die-hard coffee snob and unashamed starving artist, I discovered well over 10 years ago that coffee-houses would send me to the poor house. Even including milk, beans, grinders, cups, and high-end Italian espresso machines between my wife and myself we have saved in excess of $25,000 by NOT buying our coffee while out on the town every day. (2 lattes * 7 days a week * 52 weeks a year * 10+ years = ouch!)
That being said, if I do find myself in the area, I can't help myself and walk in to have a latte. Not only is it delicious, they have free wi-fi (ask for the password du jour) and the barristas are highly skilled. They still use a proper "semi-automatic" machine where the barrista has to be skilled in the preparation of the ground coffee. (Starbucks switched to "1-touch" super-automatic machines a few years ago). If the barrista's touch is off then you can get a ruined shot... which I've never seen them do.
They do have a small selection of pastries but I just come for the beautiful coffee.
NB: they apply a dash of cinnamon to the espresso before pouring the milk. This helps richen up the colour of the crema (brown foam on top of espresso) giving the barrista more contrast to work the latte-art.
This place will be one of the few places that can make a coffee even the most die-hard coffee snobs like myself can enjoy.Listed in: coffee coffee coffee coffee
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Review from WaYnE c.
Maple, ON
Second spot on the "Kat F - Miss U Crawl" is a place that Kat F. even put her mark on the door. They have a "People LOVE Us on Yelp" sticker on the right door. Look up at the ceiling and notice that they have lights that are probably designed so it's representative of some Solar System. The lights at the counter are made of Kitchen Sinks and like most other Cafes, they have paintings by someone hanging from the wall.
Cappuccino($3.25) was the beverage of choice, however at this time I have to say it's not one of my favourite. It was still nicely Crema'ed but you'll notice the larger bubbles all around the top. Another thing is that it had more bitter/sour taste than what I wanted, but I won't take points off from this as I had a Sweet Pie just seconds before this drink. They do have a smallish outdoor seating area.Listed in: Coffee Drinks
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Review from Shaleen S.
Toronto, ON
I love Mercury. This place sets the bar for coffee shops in Toronto. Their espresso is out of this world. I used to work close by and didn't realise how good I had it! Every time I go to a coffee place now I compare it to Mercury.
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Review from Jason S.
Toronto, ON
Best coffee in Leslieville.
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Review from Kat F.
NOW OPEN TILL 8PM EVERY DAY.
Holy shit, this makes me unreasonably happy. No longer shall I wander the city desperately searching for a non-chain cappuccino shop that's open past 6pm (harder to find than you'd think). I'm thrilled.Listed in: The Best Places To Eat, Shop &…, Reliable Wi-Fi In Toronto, Caffeinate Thyself, Cafés That Actually Have…
2 Previous Reviews: Show all »
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12/17/2009
Recently I'd really been missing the vibe in Williamsburg, NY, and without the budget to purchase a… Read more »
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12/17/2009
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Review from Keith B.
Eh, I'd say this is the cafe equivalent of Ronnie's in Kensington. The staff seemed totally uninterested in actually making my americano and more interested in talking with people (who weren't me.) Look, I'm all for the discussing the merits of neck beards and ideas on how to make our skinny jeans even skinnier, but at some point I would like my coffee.
The interior of this place is very unique. I liked the look, especially the paintings on the wall - I also appreciated the 'no cell phones at the counter policy.' Everything here has that retro/vintage look that hipsters get super hard for, and there is a surprising amount of seating for such a small place.
The other patrons were an interesting mix of hipster, people who looked like they couldn't afford a 'coffee time' coffee and yummy mummies (nice.) There was also actually a guy there who was dressed in all black with a stack of philosophy books beside him.
At $3, the americano was pretty tasty, though not the best I've ever had. I'll probably back at some point (possibly with some nietzsche and an ironic tshirt) -
Review from Miriam W.
The non-coffee offerings at Mercury are quite uninspired. I gave 'em back my chai because it tasted like water with a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg. It was replaced by a decent enough hot chocolate.
But hey, it's an espresso bar so I can't fault these dudes for much, especially given their exceptional soundtrack which featured some of my favorite early 90's dance hits on my last visit. -
Review from sarah l.
This is my five star coffee place. I started this review 3 months ago and that's all I wrote.
The good:
- 1% feature cappuccino
- the coffee
- the staff
- the anal leakage cartoons
The bad:
- the undesirable presentation of the food I always think about buying.. but never ever do
- the failure of a nuitBlanche coffee snow cone ferris wheel (fail again. almost -1 star for that but... I did start this review 3 months ago and it's not like I would have logged in to update it if it were already posted.)
I will go here again. You can probably cross paths with me here.Listed in: Coffee in…
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Review from Roanna Z.
This cafe caught my eye with it's character. The sign on the window misleads an unobservant passer by offering "Leather Jackets and Sporting goods" This original sign was revealed and then salvaged by the art appreciative owner of Mercury Espresso.
Organic and Fair Trade, this eclectic cafe has and individual feel to it while offering a good quality product. Chairs and tables at the side to sit and pause. Good Cappuccino, nice staff.Listed in: Connect the dots on a coffee…
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Review from Jon S.
Toronto, ON
Great coffee, but my god, the place thinks it's so hip it actually hurts. Ironically hipster staff who haven't clued in that being ironic and hipster just ain't where it's at anymore, and with a million signs over the counter that tell customers not to use cellphones while ordering or to not lean on various objects, it projects a seriously negative energy.
Srsly? Srsly. -
Review from Greg C.
Toronto, ON
OK, so I forgot to mention they sell the Black Cat espresso beans which rule over any other beans.
Also, Sunday morning they were playing the Zombies A/B sides in it's entirety! No debit is forgiven.
Rules!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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10/13/2009
4.5 STARS
I'd give them a straight up 5 for having the best espresso in town but the lack of… Read more »
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10/13/2009
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Review from John B.
Toronto, ON
I've been remiss in not reviewing Mercury. I found them early on and was readily taken with their quality espresso (Intelligentsia beans) and the groovy, repurposed-building (an auto garage, maybe?) style atmosphere. Like Kat F. noted in her review, they had a cool selection of music on hand. My girlfriend had a latte which she quickly slurped up (in noted contrast to the ones I make her at home, peeving me somewhat, ahem) and I remember my cookie being pretty tasty, too. I'd be a frequent customer if only I lived in that neighbourhood.
Of note, I recently had the opportunity to take a "Barista Training Academy" session, hosted at Mercury (at their sister location) and given by one of the co-owners (Matt, I think). It was lots of fun to my coffeegeek sensibilities, and I got to see first hand Mercury's dedication to making a quality beverage. They are definitely part of the so-called 3rd wave of coffee, and deserve to be on your tour of quality coffee bars.Listed in: Toronto's Best Espresso
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Review from Marie F.
Today I had quite possibly the best Latte I have ever had. The foam was rich and flavourful, the base was strong but tasty and at about $3.
The WiFi was quick and reliable; you just need to ask the barista for the password and your set. I loved that there was a nice big leather couch and ottoman available.
My only negative comments would be that they don't take debit or have a bank machine onsite and the music. The sound was super loud and rivalled that of most bars I've been to. I don't know about you but I like having conversations over coffee, which is hard to do if you have to yell to get your point across.
Good place though... will probably come again. -
Review from Elle P.
$4.50 for a latte, but it's a double shot so the price is actually reasonable.
The iced latte was very good. Good strong espresso and they had simple syrup for me to add, which means that I can actually sweeten my latte (sugar just won't do because it won't melt). :)
The croissant I had was awful. The interior was like Wonder's white bread. All bready, no flaky buttery goodness. It was seriously disappointing.
Come get your coffee and latte here, but skip out on breakfast. Mercury has a funky hipsters-who-grew-up-but-don't-want-to/grungy/moto rcycle-gang vibe to it. You can hang out here, if you think Riverdale Perk is a little too yuppie for you. -
Review from Lee O.
Toronto, ON
Good quality espressos. I've purchase the beans to go and they make a great cup at home. The atmosphere and the staff seem devoid of the ability to make you feel welcome. You can stand in line for a long time and no one will even make eye contact with you. The music can sometimes be annoying because it's loud and super alternative, more for the staff than it is for the customers.
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Review from Anna V.
Toronto, ON
This is a real old school joint. It has that slightly soap-box feel of a "animal free" joint, even though thy serve milk.
To say it's a diner is not entirely true, it's more of the old school cafe type deal.
It's not very big at all, and they have the minimal cafe sandwich board options, but they make a really mean cappuccino or latte and they have soy milk, which means they're aces with me. -
Review from Leslie-Anne W.
Toronto, ON
Mercury Organic opened just before the glut of coffee shops was taking over the streets of Toronto. This coffee shop is consistent and makes a delicious latte. The indoor space is a bit cramped, it is a great place to grab a coffee and walk around Leslieville.
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Review from jacquelyn c.
Toronto, ON
Having worked at starbucks (where customer recognition and small talk is enforced in a military-like manner) I am always weary and defensive when a barista attempts to engage in conversation. Mercury is not that sort of place. The staff is always polite, courteous and willing to talk in a way that doesn't come across as phony or forced. That being said, this is not the place to go if you want your drink quickly. They serve organic, fair-trade coffee (latte, americano, etc.) that is consistently great. They also have a selection of baked goods that, unfortunately, are sometimes a little stale. And although the café itself is tad smallish, they have a nicely sized patio that's always filled with friendly locals. Mercury is good place to start a summer day in the east end. Oh...and the baristas play great music.
Listed in: Leslieville (The East End)
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Review from André C.
Toronto, ON
Fantastic coffee. Would give five stars for that alone. I like the vibe, the music and the attitude as well even though i am clearly not as cool as they think they are. Food is underwhelming, they could have had a wider selection of sodas etc. Also the fact that they dont accept debit or crdit card is just stupid. Grow up! Nevtheless i find myself driving from far away just to get a shot of their fantastic espresso and a cappuccino... Somehow i think this could have easily been turned into a five star place by just cleaning up a bit, turning the music down a couble of decibels and get some good but simple food that fit the quality of their coffee.
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Review from Mitch S.
Toronto, ON
Cool atmosphere and staff that definitely cares a lot about coffee! I really liked the fact that this place brings in some of the best roasters in North America as well as having a feature single origin espresso. I ended trying to house speciality, merk coffee...it was fantastic. Get this, this was basically a macchiato with a bit of honey at the bottom and black pepper flakes...I know this sounds strange, but it works really well, give it a shot!
