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Moonbean Coffee
Category: Food Coffee & Tea Coffee & Tea [Edit]
30 St Andrew StToronto, ON M5T 1K6
Neighbourhood: Kensington Market
(416) 595-0327
- Hours:
Mon-Sun 7 am - 9 pm
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Price Range:
-
$
- Parking:
- Street
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
73 reviews for Moonbean Coffee
Review Highlights
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"Front patio is great for Kensington Market's favourite..." In 8 reviews -
"...a great selection of fair trade coffee, tasty pastries and..." In 4 reviews -
"I would definitely recommend MoonBeam Coffee to coffee..." In 6 reviews
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72 reviews in English
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Review from Robbie G.
Toronto, ON
When I absolutely MUST have an above average cup of coffee, Moonbean is the place to go. I sometimes splurge and get a Cafe Mocha, and must say, they are amazing. Rich with flavour. And I'm not talking crappy nestle quik taste..I mean it exudes hints of real coacoa, blended into a perfect froth of caffeinated goodness!
My friend has an addiction to their Jasmine Macha latte however that's all heresay, as I'm strictly a coffee guy. Hands down my favourite coffee shop in the city. The neighbourhood (kensington) always makes for great people watching while enjoying your beverage too. -
Review from Joyce T.
Mississauga, ON
5/16/2012 1 Check-in Here
This is by far the best iced blended macha latte I have in Toronto. Not too sweet. Strong macha aroma. Just don't expect too much about presentation. I also ordered an apple danish, delicious as well.
I will be back for sure. -
Review from Athena Y.
Toronto, ON
4/29/2012
The coffee here is awesome, and there is a huge selection of both coffee beans and loose tea leaves that they can brew on the spot for you. The cafe itself is also very lovely - the inside is cozy, the back patio is gorgeous when the weather is good, and the staff is both helpful and friendly.
The pastries, however, are very mediocre, but apparently the sandwiches are good, so I'll try that next time. -
Review from Susan C.
Toronto, ON
3/23/2012
This is one of my favourite cafes to go to, especially my favourite one in Kensington Market!
The atmosphere of this cafe is so welcoming. There is more than enough seats for everyone in the summertime - they have two outdoor patios (one in the front and one in the back) and two rooms for indoor seating. The barista and staffs are very friendly, which makes it nice to hang around. Absolutely a great spot to just sit and chat with friends!
This cafe is like any other cafe, along with coffee beans and loose leaf for sale! They have a good amount of baked goods, especially a variety of muffins. I have tried a few of their lattes and they are delicious. However, their muffins are just okay - nothing special.
The prices are reasonable, not too frightening compared many individual cafes I been to!
Definitely will be coming back over and over and over again! -
Review from Phatty G.
Toronto, ON
3/10/2012 1 photo
I don't drink coffee on the regular because I have an absolutely addictive personality and good coffee is hard to find. I refuse to drink crappy coffee but this is one of the few places in the city that I look forward to having a cup of joe.
I'm not going to get into the different coffee flavours they have since everyone has their own preferences. Every day there will be a few featured brewed coffees. But if you don't want any of those, they have a huge selection and you can easily open up a jar to smell the beans before choosing one. The staff there will grind and french press your order.
They also have a good selection of tea and various other drinks as well (I think more so in the summertime). If you need a cookie, brownie, or whatever, they have that as well.
The decor is not much, but its a cozy, small cafe. It isn't trying to be Starbucks or Second Cup and has been around for as long as I can remember. I don't come in here to spend my time on a laptop so it doesn't really matter. I just want to come in, pick up a cup of coffee and get on my way. There are some small tables here and there towards the back, as well as a patio during the summer.
I LOVE THIS PLACE. I LOVE THEIR COFFEE. -
Review from Jessica M.
Toronto, ON
2/11/2012
This place is quite cozy, a favorite cafe of mine located in Kensington market. I ordered the Herbal Peach Iced Tea and it wasn't bad - the peach flavour was subtle but not overwhelmingly sweet. It even came with a real peach.
The atmosphere is comfortable with seats by the window and more in the back and the staff seemed knowledgeable about their products.
PS. You can even purchase your own loose leaf tea and coffee beans to go! -
Review from Joshua H.
Toronto, ON
2/25/2012
This place is such a big MEH.
Coffee ok.
Sound system - below par/ really distorted.
Decor- kind of sheisty, but in the way you expect from a Kensington place, so not really that much of a drawback.
No wifi? WTF? Freekensingtonwifi broootal.
No plugs? WTF? I had to plug my laptop into the ONLY plug in the place, connected to the coffee grinder... circuit overload anyone?
Lots of coffee beans for sale? Cool.
Cheap pastries? Cool!
Kensington vibe? Good.
So. I echo whoever said: if you are looking for a place in the neighbourhood, but you are too lazy to walk two blocks northwest into the market, or two blocks southwest to Queen and Spadina, or you just need a COFFEE RIGHT NOW and you are on St Andrew St, then this is the place for you! Otherwise, MEH. -
Review from Peggy W.
Markham, ON
1/16/2012
There have been two occasions where I've ventured into a cafe alone, only to be dragged back into the same cafe with dining companions later the same day. The first time was last Boxing Day at a Second Cup; the second time, it was at Moonbean Coffee, and it was busy on both occasions.
For my first visit, I had a vanilla rooibos--the vanilla flavour was subtle but still came through, which was more than I could say for the chocolate coconut chai I had at Voulez-Vous Cafe. For my second visit, I got what was possibly the last vegan gluten-free chocolate brownie for the day to go with a gloriously unhealthy espresso supreme, which was a shot of espresso topped with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream and further crowned with whipped cream (or, as I would like to call it, a red-eye ice cream float). The brownie was tasty albeit slightly hard; the over-the-top espresso supreme was what made the day for me.
The menu is written on a blackboard in three sections in a rather dizzying format--while the kid-in-a-candy-store feeling that I get is pretty thrilling, the fact that other people are in line behind me and I'm dizzy from trying to pick something from the menu might not necessarily thrill them...
I think I'll try out a latte or cappuccino, to see what kind of latte art the baristas (very friendly ladies!) are capable of on my next visit...
(Random factoids:
1. All this time I've been spelling it MoonbeaM Coffee and making cheesy puns about laser beams on the moon... nope, I'm not winning any spelling bees any time soon...
2. Apparently Moonbean cafe has been recommended by some European guidebooks on Toronto.
3. For gluten-free folks: Besides the gluten-free vegan brownies, Moonbean now also has gluten-free fruit rounds... -
Review from Mauricio A.
Toronto, ON
1/23/2012 2 photos
Moonbean is not a bad place at all. However I do think this Indie Cafe really shines a lot more during the Summer when their cute patio at the back takes centre stage. I would highly recommend coming here on a Summer afternoon, with pen and paper, get a latte and write the afternoon away or maybe with another friend and catch up. It has that laid-back kind of vibe.
During the winter when you are *forced* to seat in indoors, a lot of it's low-rent decorations, old wooden tables and cheap plastic chairs become quite noticeable. All of the sudden you realize the place is not well insulated (brrr...) and that there are coffee bean sacks on the way to the washrooms. Not to mention the washrooms are on the main level so if someone goes the the washroom and comes out, well, you might get a solid whiff as you walk to the back area where most of the seating is located. Which brings me to the point that Moonbean is seriously lacking seating. Although in fairness, you get a bunch of people with books and laptop bums just seating there looking creative. Although in all fairness, I did suggest earlier that you could come here and write, thus taking a seat.
Now the Cafe itself is not half bad and they do seem to have a recent selection of teas and organic pastries and the like. The food is somewhat overpriced and matching Starbuck's prices on that regard.
If I was a local, this could be one of my Cafe's of choice if just out of sheer convenience, However since I am NOT a local, Moonbean -even with it's hippie Kensington Market vibe does not bring enough to the cup to set itself apart from the multitude of Cafes in nearby Little Italy, Queen Street West or elsewhere.
Recommended IF you are in the hood. -
Review from Helen Y.
Vancouver, BC
11/22/2011
ORGASMIC!! jasmin macha latte with almond milk ..
my bf's fav is either latte or mocha, it is delicious beyond belief..
i think i found my fav coffee shop in toronto after two years of search..
:) -
Review from Dishan W.
10/23/2011 6 Check-ins Here
Moonbean is one of my more frequently visited cafes. My favourite coffee shop at university got their beans from Moonbean so titles such as "Midnight Darkness" and "Forest Whisperer" were commonplace to me even before I ever stepped in to Moonbean.
Despite my familiarity with their coffee beans, they still have a large menu both for drinks and snacks, and can easily be intimidating especially if there is a line up forming behind you. Like most of the more popular coffee spots, when this place gets busy in the morning it's not a pleasant spot to be in then. But most of visits here have been very pleasent, very friendly staff and quick service if you order food.
I used to have an aversion to their large glass mugs they serve latte and other drinks in but have slowly grown accustomed to them. They have a good number of seats available including a back area and a back patio.
To sum up, this is one of the best places for coffee at Kensington and a joy for a coffee drinker to see that they actually offer more than just a couple of different flavours of drip. -
Review from Vivek S.
Updated - 10/25/2011 2 Check-ins Here
My return visit to Moonbean was a better experience for sure. Their brewed coffee is definitely solid and it's nice having a few options to choose from. It was a madhouse on my visit which meant that service was rushed and frazzled, but still friendly. I really liked the medium central American blend they had going.
Being a madhouse also meant barely anywhere to sit except on an impossibly small two-top by the roaster. It was swell. Once it quieted down however, it was a mellower experience. I'll have to time my visits carefully.Listed in: Kensington Market, Indie Coffee Passport
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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9/14/2009
Contrary to the opinions of friends, I didn't enjoy my first experience at the revered Moonbean of… Read more »
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Review from Peter T.
Toronto, ON
8/11/2011 95 Check-ins Here
Working from home means that I don't have many reasons to leave the house but Moonbean Coffee Company is a regular exception.
Running out to grab a double is often the first thing I do when I wake up. Even before showering or taking the dogs out (sorry dogs).
I'm predictable and unimaginative with my double americano but on occasion will have a soy matcha latte, hot lemon soother or one of their yummy juices if I'm feeling out of sorts. All the drinks here, especially espresso-based, are of the highest quality and prepared with attention to detail.
Food is good. I like the super bagel (breakfast bagel with egg, cheese and tomato and spices) and tuna melt the best. They have vegan options too if that's your thing.
Front patio is great for Kensington Market's favourite pastime - people watching. Back patio is great for reading a book and wasting away the afternoon (look for the rocker chair). You'll find me at least once a week in the back working on my laptop (tethered cause they don't have wifi) early in the morning when I can't sleep.
Definitely a favourite of mine. I recommend this to everyone. -
Review from Jonathan C.
Oakville, ON
11/22/2011
I tried the brewed coffee on a Tuesday morning and can't say I understand the hype and high ratings on Yelp. It was ok, but nothing extraordinary. The one caveat is that I had the last drops of the brew, so maybe I got a bit unlucky with the bottom of the pot.
Or maybe I need to try one of their lattes or stay awhile to drink my coffee in the coziness of the place (though the ambiance isn't particularly inviting), but I'll have to get it an average rating, for an average coffee. -
Review from Selene n.
Toronto, ON
11/17/2011
This is probably one of my most fave spots in the city. I've been going here for over a decade (oh god I'm old) and still bring people here all the time. The coffee is amazing and they have a huge drink menu, all of which can be made with soy milk. They're also super accommodating - once I asked for a fair trade, vegan iced frap type of drink and they brewed fresh coffee to make it for me since they didn't have any FT on hand!
For their general coffee, they have fair trade - at the same price as regular. They also have vegan snacks (though not gluten-free vegan, *sniff sniff*). There are tons of teas that you can have brewed (I recommend the belgium chocolate rooibos if you like things that are amazing and delicious) and they can also be bought so you can relive the magic at home.
Moonbean is also open till pretty late for a cafe - I think like 10. The patio in the back is amazing and between it, the front patio and inside, there is tons of seating. But it does get super busy - particularly during cold weather when the back patio is closed and the front patio seems less appealing (by virtue of being outdoors).
I tried to stray this summer and try a different place for coffee, but about a month in I came right back! Mmmm Moonbean...I might just go there right now! -
Review from Yi Qing S.
Toronto, ON
9/12/2011
I went there on a Sunday afternoon with a group of five other friends. As soon as we walked in, the owner (or whoever it was that was in charge) greeted us and we went to claim a table since it was pretty busy.
We ended up sitting at the back patio area. Some people have commented that people smoke despite the signs put up that say not to, but I didn't notice this. We sat in a shady area near the end that was quite pleasant and quite perfect really, for an outing with housemates.
I got myself a small, ice-blended latte and it was good, if not a little pricey for its size. I wouldn't give it any points for presentation but the taste itself was exactly what I was looking for - frothy and refreshing for a hot day out. The others all got themselves some form of coffee or another and a few of them got slices of cake, which looked so delicious that I was annoyed at myself for having eaten so soon before. Two of them commented that the cake was, indeed, delicious, and the other remarked that it was "too sweet", so people who are not much into very sweet cake, beware I guess.
The service was also rather prompt for how busy it was. I was half-expecting them to forget or mess up my order somehow but our entire table ordered and got our respective food/drinks without a hitch. Not that "not screwing up" is a level of service one should strive for, but in this case I think it serves most people's needs quite well. After all, that's all you need when you're a student and and just want to get a strong cup of joe in a self-service joint.
I will be coming back again! -
Review from Rainie L.
Markham, ON
1/8/2012
For years I was wondering what's with the hype of this place. And then I visited one Saturday afternoon a few weeks ago. And now I'm a fan writing up a review on yelp. Sure the coffee is really good. I love their Guatemala and Ethiopian roasts. And I really want to try their Heaven roast and their flavored coffee next time I visit because they smell AMAZING! But it's also the vibe of this place. It shouts indie coffee house. It makes me wish I lived closer downtown. I just love how Toronto is filled with independent coffee shops popping up all around town. My dream come true :D
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Review from Yumiko K.
8/7/2011
My local friend took me to Moonbean Coffee Company. It was a small, crowded, and pretty eclectic cafe with a nice front patio as well as a decent-sized back patio with sparrows that seemed to be constantly fighting over a muffin wrapper.
There were a wide variety of drinks. My friend had a cup of coffee, and I had refreshing iced tea. We spent at least a couple of hours hanging out in the back, which was pleasant with the exception of a couple of smokers despite of the non-smoking signs. Yuck!
I also got a couple of borekas (feta and spinach, and feta and olive). I liked the spinach one better, but they were both pretty delicious (and perfect for breakfast!). -
Review from Ayesha A.
5/26/2011
Conformists beware: there are some seriously...interesting people that frequent this cafe.
It kind of adds to the atmosphere, although it can be slightly distracting for anyone trying to study.
Typical of what you'd expect at a Kensington Market cafe, there's a nice selection of vegan baked goods, along with fair trade coffee and a wide array of teas.
There's a nice backyard that's usually quite full during nice weather. -
Review from Marie F.
Updated - 3/21/2011 6 Check-ins Here
Sometimes great company makes all the difference in the world...
The first time I went to Moonbeam I was meeting up with a 'friend' known for her shitty attitude and my life sucks persona. I didn't think it made a difference but just recently I went back to Moonbeam to meet a friend for coffee and the atmosphere had totally changed.
My phyllo/cheese bagel was awesome, my latte tasty and the staff simply adorable. *Sighs* sorry Moonbeam... let us never fight again :-)Listed in: I'll Sleep When I am Dead...…
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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3/19/2010
Great coffee but they place was just ok.
I liked the patio in the back but I can see how crowded… Read more »
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Review from Kat T.
7/20/2011
The espresso-based bevvies here are pretty good. If there isn't a table around the corner at the coffee bar, then this place is a decent replacement. I'm SO glad this isn't a Starbucks, but the ambiance is hit or miss. The plastic patio chairs out on the back patio are chairs and on a patio, but not cozy for long afternoons sipping the cafe au lait.
Beans also for sale, but less variety than around the corner, too. -
Review from Denise S.
This is a solid Kensington hangout. I've been here a few times and it always seems to be buzzing with activity. Staff are friendly and relaxed no matter how crowded it gets. On my last visit, I had a mocha latte. Most places use hot chocolate + espresso, but here they drizzle chocolate syrup along the sides of the mug and then add espresso and steamed milk. Slightly different and it makes it important to really stir everything, otherwise all the sweetness ends up at the bottom. They do a great job with the latte art:) The barista made a leaf shape and then used chocolate syrup to add a flower on the side. The ruggies are buttery and delicious!
Even in the cool fall weather, they keep the front patio open. It was raining, so they put up a big tent/umbrella thing. The space isn't that big, but they arrange the tables in a way that maximizes seating. I'd describe the decor as 'shabby chic'... or maybe just shabby? No matter, it suits the unpretentious vibe.
They are also participating in the Indie Coffee Passport this year, so that's one more reason to check it out! They're also open later than most other independent cafes.Listed in: Cafe Culture
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Review from Anna C.
Toronto, ON
1/23/2011
This is my fave of all the coffee shops in Toronto, and it's an added bonus that it's in my favorite neighborhood in the city to boot. It's always my first stop when I go to the market.
First of all, the coffee is just superb whether you're getting one of the convenient self-serve coffee options, or ordering off the menu. These guys also cater to vegans. Yay! My fave drink in the winter is the soy latte and in the summer I go for the blended ice soy mochaccino. They have loads of fresh vegan eats too: little breads and cakes, cookies.
In the winter you can enjoy the cosy warmth of the cafe, and in the summer there is the impressive back patio or you can people watch on the front patio (if there's space).
While you're there, grab up a bag of fair-trade organic coffee (the selection is very impressive) to take home.
The staff are friendly and very tolerant and helpful if you are retarded at using the coffee grinder like me (although I'm getting the hang of it).
This place can get packed which is understandable considering it's such an outstanding place. -
Review from Caroline W.
Scarborough, ON
1/20/2011
Moonbean is a cute little cafe in Kensington that I find myself frequenting.
The vibe is cozy and welcoming, and is usually filled with university students from the area. It can get very busy, especially on Fridays and the weekends. With that said, sometimes it can be difficult to find a table if you're looking to sit down and enjoy your coffee.
Typically I'll order a caramelccino or a cappuccino, both of with are great. The flavour of the coffee is very pleasant and my favourite in the city. There are a lot more options to choose from on the menu, including tea.
I am not a tea lover, but Moonbean does have a variety of teas to choose from for those who do enjoy it.
In terms of food, they have a variety of choices as well. The burekas are good, as are some of the danishes that they have in stock (which to my experience, has been mostly on the weekend). I would not recommend their muffins, which to my experience have been very dry. Their vegan bread slices aren't that great either, and they're overpriced (around $3 each). They come in flavours like date walnut, chocolate chip banana, and pumpkin which sound enticing, but they are very bland tasting and dry.
To conclude, the people working here are very friendly, I never feel intimidated going into the cafe, which has been the case with other cafes I have been to. Moonbean is definitely a favourite. -
Review from Isabella L.
Toronto, ON
9/29/2010 2 photos
C O F F E E P A S S P O R T S T O P (#11)
Drink: Large Soy Jasmine Latte
Atmosphere: Oh man, the menu is overwhelming! It's directly above the counter and it's HUGE with everything written with chalk. Took me a good 2 minutes to decide with my head tilted back and mouth open lookin' up. (Rest assured, I did not look foolish by myself as there were 3 others doing so). But yeah, it was a rainy day yesterday and this place was packed! They have many baked treats and what not, but I did not get to take pictures of this place because I was in a rush.
Onto the drink. I really really REALLY wanted to like this. It has potential. The taste of my jasmine latte was just aromatic and lovely. I personally LOVE jasmine tea... maybe 'cause I'm asian... I don't know. But, damn, did the barista put WAY too much powder in it! Within my first sip, I already had that powder break down in my mouth. But as I drank more, it diluted better. Then it came back in the end. I had to let my drink sit so all the chunky powder would rest and slowly drink the rest of it. Sigh.
Verdict: If the barista learns to measure the amount of powder used, I'd come back for sure, but for now she needs to try her own creation and not just eyeball the measurements.
3.3
(It has potential or maybe 'cause of my Jasmine asian bias thing)Listed in: Indie Coffee Passport Stops
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Review from Nicole H.
Toronto, ON
10/27/2010 2 Check-ins Here
Tucked away and a little unassuming, I have walked by Moonbean many times and not bothered to go in. I guess from the outside it looks a little small or slightly dingy - once you are inside it's really not the case, and I wish i'd discovered this sooner!
A long counter on the left as you go in has a baked goods & other light snacks if you're after something more than a nice hot drink. The drinks menu is a huge board on the wall behind the counter, and covers an impressive range of not just tea and coffee, but things like smoothies & juices as well.
There to use my Indie Coffee Passport stop, I opted for a latte - this time trying almond milk, as I don't see it on offer in too many places. Quite a nice (and large) cup of joe - well flavoured and not overwhelmingly strong/bitter. I got a slice of vegan pumpkin spice loaf to go along with it which was nicely flavoured, but a little dry.
The atmosphere here is a nice mix of laid back, yet bustling. Plenty of activity from takeout customers, and a nice background buzz of coffee-fueled conversations filtering through from the depths of the cafe (the seating area seems to go quite a way back!). Could be a little difficult to grab a table at busier times, but as one person I was able to nudge in at a small table at the front near the coffee roaster. Service was no-nonsense but still helpful and friendly rather than brusque.
Moonbean's also got an impressive array of coffee beans for sale (which you can grind on premises), plus jars full of loose-leaf tea of all persuasions, should that take your fancy. I think i'd like to get back for a more prolonged visit to sit in and try some more of their drinks & treats (a reasonable amount of vegetarian/vegan stuff is on offer!), and maybe grab some goods to go as well.Listed in: Caffeine Nation: The Toronto…
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Review from Tanya N.
2/28/2011
This review is loooong overdue. I first heard of Moonbeam a few years ago when an old coworker would make freshly brewed coffee in the afternoon making me regret and ashamed of my cafe bought coffee. While I don't remember the exact name of his coffee blend, all I remember was that it had the word "heaven" in it. Enough said.
This place is almost always packed when I'm there. It can get extremely cramped in the front due to the tight space and so you either end up being sardined or just opted for waiting outside until the cash area calms down.
I love their lattes and they always have plenty of light snacks. It's the perfect place to start off your Kensington shopping or to relax when you're done. -
Review from Payal D.
Brampton, ON
9/13/2010
I thank my co worker to this day for introducing me to really good coffee here - until then I used to buy the bagged stuff from either starbucks or even (gasp) tim hortons. I didn't know any better, until I stepped into here upon his recommendation.
The fact that they provide freshly roasted beans, of ethically traded as well as organic coffee along with choice of freshly grinding or taking the beans whole home really does the trick.
Also, the morning buzz beans are highly addictive. I also enjoy their bagel looking creation (borka?) in both spinach and feta flavors.
Lastly, the patio does seem like a super chill place to hang out. I don't however, ever have the time to do so. I am only able to frequent this place during weekdays when I come to the city to work, I do sure wish they'd open another one out in the burbs.
D -
Review from Sahara A.
East York, ON
7/3/2011
I've been there three times. Once, on a date and the other two with friends. Frankly, it's great for both :)
I tried their London Fog, but it wasn't all too great. There was way too much vanilla and not enough milk - but maybe it was just me. I'm not a fan of coffee, so I won't comment on that (however I've heard great things about their free-trade stuff!) HOWEVER... THEIR MILKSHAKES ARE THE BOMB.
THEIR MILKSHAKES
ARE THE BOMB. I think I'm the only person who orders them too, haha. Banana's the best out of the three (Chocolate, Strawberry &Banana).
The venue is cute, however it's hard to find a spot when you're with friends. Very retro. -
Review from geraldine g.
Toronto, ON
4/2/2011 1 photo
I've been wanting to go here for awhile but finally, I made it!
It's a cute and comfortable indie place. It hasn't got an ounce of pretentiousness or that slick - or slickster modern look and no substance.
The coffee was good but didn't blow me me away like others have but what did was watching them roast the coffee beans. The smell from that was heavenly. I wanted a cup of whatever they were roasting so bad!!!. All I can say is I wish the smell of that roasted equalled the flavour of the current brew I had in my hand.
That being said, it does make me want to try another cup.
The staff are friendly and so cute. I thought they were sisters. LOL -
Review from WaYnE c.
Maple, ON
8/27/2010 1 photo
Moonbean was ONE of the first places I realize Coffee was not just available from Franchises. When I began learning about Espresso and Lattes, Moonbean was the first place I went specifically to to try an authentic professional Barista made Latte and some Espresso Beans. I found this place as the go-to place simply because they had a WEBSITE available which even allows for purchasing online.
Today, I went back again and enjoyed a Cappuccino like I did a few years ago but this time I dined-in and sat indoors instead of the Patio out front. The inside decor is similar to others where there is lots of Wooden aesthetics from the Tables and Chair to the Shelves.
Lots of Teas in glass jars on display as well as Coffee Beans. Muffins made on premises as I saw a large Muffin tray on the counter to be washed and cleaned. Cookies also looked like a good SNACK as well.
The Gentlemen that made my Double Cappuccino took care in the preparation as he pulled the shot into a METAL spout container while steaming the milk. In unison, the apprentice(?) Lady poured the shot into the glass while the Gentleman poured the milk with care.
Of no fault to Moonbean, I personally don't like carrying TALL glass of hot drinks towards my seat. I saw another customer that had a taller glass than mine and she had to take so much more care. The clear glass does look nice but as I saw at Dark Horse later, it can be hazardous and expensive.Listed in: Coffee Drinks
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Review from Ryan M.
Toronto, ON
12/21/2010
Moonbeam is an amazing place- the staff are incredibly helpful (especially when you're fumbling with the self-serve tea canisters), the food is tasty (get the spinach boreka), and the atmosphere is happy and inviting.
It can get a little crowded at times but that's less a jab at the facilities and more indicative of the spot's popularity. It's an especially great place to people watch during a busy Saturday afternoon (when the patio weather is a bit more accommodating, of course!).
And don't worry too much about the large menu on the back wall- best advice is just to point to something in a display case and order whatever drink you're feeling up for; the friendly staff will do the rest.
Enjoy! -
Review from Jim P.
9/26/2010
Great biscoti. Reasonable prices. Free wireless.
This place is like an old country store, with space out front, and people with their dogs hanging out front.
Nice people, prompt service, in a laid back and clean environment. -
Review from Jennifer K.
Markham, ON
9/21/2010 9 photos
Moonbean is a nice little coffee place.
Love everything here!
Great Tea selections: where you actually you can cross examine what inside each kind of tea, open the jar to smell it and decide if you like it then take it to the counter where they will make it fresh for you. No guessing involve and not from tea bags!!
Great Coffee selections: All written on the board... great selections.. I kept changing my mind while I was lining up.. (too many choices and by the time I order I changed my mind 5 times!)
The staffs here are so friendly and it is fun watching them making all the drinks...
The back patio is nice and cosy with umbrellas and a shaded area if you do want to enjoy the fresh air and stay away from the sun!
Extra 0.5 star because I use my Indie Coffee Passport here!! -
Review from Elvis A.
Another Coffee spot in Kensignton market whose popularity escapes me.
This place is busy with a capital B. Consistent flow of customers buying coffee beans, teas and other items.
It has a huge seating area with an nice outdoor place in front, some space in the back as well as the main floor.
The baristas are Japanese and play well on being "Kawaii" complete with "Hirajaku" fashion!
Some interesting selection of desserts along with a doughnut shaped "Burek" something I haven't seen before.
Now for the main show the cappuccino though done in unique style (the espresso shot being poured in a metal container and then into a cup and then topped with milk) is nothing special. Not much latte art to speak of either.
1.5 Stars.
2nd visit I tried the Mocha Latte as the Cappuccino was pretty bad on the last trip.
Quite decent actually the chocolate was not overly sweet and latter art was good. I liked how they dressed up the whipped cream with chocolate syrup. Espresso had good crema. 3.5 Star for the drink -
Review from Deanna W.
6/14/2009
Super cozy and eclectic coffee shop in Kensinton market. Definitely one of my favourite places to visit in Kensington particularly when I need a refreshing respite from wandering/shopping in the market throughout the afternoon. They serve up a great iced tea-black or tea, not too sweet at all. And they have a killer selection of other beverages from iced frappe drinks, specialty teas to your regular espresso offerings. Nice front patio out on St. Andrew's makes for interesting people watching particularly when the bands are playing for Pedestrian Sundays.
A wonderul place to chill or to meet up with friends in the market. -
Review from Eliah H.
Toronto, ON
11/15/2009 3 Check-ins Here
Moonbean is easily one of my all time favorite cafes in Toronto. I'd say at least 70% of the coffee I brew at home comes from Moonbean. They have perhaps the best selection of worldwide coffees in all Toronto. Coffee varieties from Mexico, Tanzania, Indonesia, Yemen, as well as many other countries can be found here. Since they fresh roast on the premise your always assured a delicious cup of fresh coffee whether having a cup on the premise or taking a bag of coffee for home.
Aside from coffees Moonbean also has a large variety of fresh teas. Many exotic blends can be found especially from Asia. The establishments also carries a variety of pastries like croissants and scones (though a bit pricey) for patrons to munch on along with their coffee or tea.
The atmosphere is cozy and warm even when the place is busy. A perfect spot to warm up in over the cold winter months. In the summer they open a front and rear patio and you'll often find an eclectic mix of Kensington Market locals and visitors hanging out there.
Everyone who visits Kensington Market owes themselves at least one visit to Moonbean. If for anything to have the opportunity to sample some of the world's best coffees.Listed in: Eliah's Big List of Go To…
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Review from Matty K.
Toronto, ON
9/3/2008
The owner is a funny chap with a moustache, looks like a coffee company owner.
Don't forget the back patio outside, in a garden-y type of atmosphere with swinging benches.
Quite often there is marijuana growing among the plants around the place, but it is etiquette not to disrupt their existence, they are living creatures and a sign of the times and place. Even locals don't know too much, yet I don't mind Yelping it for the while. There are other, better secrets. For smoke-able weed you can ask any of the obvious people hanging out there.
All sorts of people meet here: rich and famous to crazies on crack. Most importantly it's a hub for ideas and discoveries. This is where many people come to work on projects. It is easy to spot a local from an outsider, because the outsiders think they are invisible.
After choosing from one of thirty tea types, you take a tea jar at the entrance and you give it to them, they make it for you at under $2 a cup. Some of these teas are more rare and wakening than a latte. Some of them have flowers pop up.
You will have flowers pop in your hair simply by coming here on a sunny or rainy day.
Open early to about 9pm.Listed in: Kensington Market
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Review from jocelyn l.
4/17/2011
Unpretentious little hippie cafe with friendly service. Seems to be packed all the time
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Review from Melanie C.
Oakville, ON
6/16/2009
Moonbean is one of my favourite coffee places in Toronto. I mostly go for the amazing lattes, but also enjoy the cozy atmosphere. The staff is very friendly, yet won't talk your ear off.
If you have a sweet tooth, I highly recommend the mocha. On a hot summer day, try one of their blended ice coffee beverages.
There's a good variety of fresh coffee beans to choose from to take home, at a very reasonable price. I like the fact that you can scoop as much or as little as you like, rather than being restricted to buying a full pound or even a half pound.
Great coffee, great location.
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