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Rooster Coffee House
Category: Food Coffee & Tea Coffee & Tea [Edit]
479 Broadview AveToronto, ON M4K 2N4
Neighbourhood: Riverdale
(416) 995-1530
- Hours:
Mon-Fri 7 am - 7 pm
Sat-Sun 8 am - 7 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- No
- Parking:
- Street
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
35 reviews for Rooster Coffee House
Review Highlights
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"my kind of roast from Te Aro." In 7 reviews -
"Lots of seats and lots of space, big communal table." In 8 reviews -
"Dog friendly patio - and kind of a cool patio." In 3 reviews
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35 reviews in English
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Review from Laura C.
Toronto, ON
Maybe its premature of me, only been in here fore 5 minutes, but I think I found one of my favourite coffee/cafe/workspaces.
Right across from Riverdale park, I've passed by a lot and it's apparent its a neighbourhood haunt.
The homey and rustic feel, plus the friendly staff make you feel at home, and among strangers, but strangely familiar.
Ok, I'm swooning, but it helps that they have a Green Tea Latte. I find this so rarely in North America, They don't serve it at Starbucks (like in Hong Kong), but they do have it at Second Cup. Rarely you see it in the indie coffee houses. I'm impressed with the list of hot beverage conctions that they have including
- Toasty Almond Latte
- Walnut Green Tea Latte
- Matcha Green Tea Latte - it's a bit more milky tasting than I would like, but still yummy
- Chocolate Mint Latte (omg.) i need to try this
and of course with the option of Soy Milk.
Tons of the usual coffee options like lattes, cortados, etc etc.
Also.
Hot Apple Cider
Hot (or Cold) Lemonade (which I also need to try)
Hot Cranberry Apple
They also have tons of munchies like cookies, macaroons (the coconut kind) and savouries like empandas. I can see myself spending an entire day here.
Large communal table at the back, and it's full of boardgames. I think I might be back here one evening. And I'm currently sitting in a leather arm chair at perfect height, comfy but not too comfy I will sleep. I have surfaces to put my things and I'm being quite productive (except for this review).
Free Wifi, free parking (between 10am-2 and 3 onwards) on Riverdale one street south. -
Review from Courtney B.
Pickering, ON
This place is great! Came in here to meet a friend for coffee and it was PACKED. I loved that it was right in a residential neighbourhood -- that added to the homey feel.
I ordered an Americano and the coffee was fantastic. I would have bought some beans but I was going out after and I didn't want to tote them around. I loved that they had the crossword to work on at the counter while you waited for your drink.
My only complaint is that it was hard to get a seat, but I think that's probably just a winter issue. In the summer, you could sit outside or take your drink across the street to the park. But really, can you blame people for wanting to enjoy tasty coffee and a cozy environment? -
Review from Vivek S.
This is a very calm and inviting space. A few two-tops near the back, and a large communal table. Music is very chill and the service is top-drawer. And one can't say enough about Rooster's glorious front patio and location across from Riverdale Park.
There is a lot on the menu. In addition to espresso you can also get hot chocolate, apple cider, brewed coffee, tea, etc. They sell roasted beans and have handy notes about what it is best to use the beans for (press, espresso, etc.) Among their many treats I spooted a very enticing wheat-free, dairy-free cookie.
Lots of points for the service here. I had spent my last $20 (on something edible no doubt), and the Rooster is a cash only establishment. No sweat, they just made me an IOU. The cashier wrote my name and value of my debt on a post-it note and placed it in a journal with similar notes. I felt like I was buying feed at a general store c. 1842. But it was great that I could enjoy my beverage and come back with the money at a more convenient time.
I will definitely return!
Obligatory Title Pun: COCK-a-doodle-DO visit this place.
Menu Readability: The menu is written on a framed chalkboard behind the counter. They also have typewritten notes around the snacks.
Need to mention: There is a Scotiabank and Dundas and Broadview (450m away), and a CIBC and RBC at Danforth and Broadview (950m away).
What this place teaches me about myself: I got through this review without making any cock jokes.Listed in: Top Coffee Shops, Lions and Tigers and Bears, Cash Only
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Review from David D.
Markham, ON
When it comes to making and serving quality coffee, Rooster Coffee House takes it seriously. If THEY are not satisfied with how they prepare your coffee, they'll dump it out and re-do it again. True story.
The staff are very friendly and welcoming. This place is a coffee enthusiast's dream, delicious pastries, comfortable sofas, long communal table, and a gorgeous view overlooking the Riverdale Park.
Coffee made from Te Aro Coffee Beans. Ordered a cappuccino, and came with a neat latte art design. It was smooth, down to the last drop. It was my co-worker's birthday and when the baristas overheard us talking about it, his latte was on the house.
Seriously, how could I have missed this and gone to Tim Horton's for the past few months.
Lucky for me, this coffee shop is minutes away from my work place. Looks like I have a new addiction!Listed in: 30-Day Yelp Challenge:…
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Review from Bec R.
Scarborough, ON
I love Roosters. I could, and have sat here for hours at a time. Took both my partner and my cousin here. It's great. Nice music, nice atmosphere, nice views of the park, good selection of baked treats. My only fault is that there isn't enough seating and no eftpos!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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2/1/2012
I have been to this coffee house twice now.
Whilst I enjoyed the coffee the first time, the second… Read more »
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2/1/2012
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Review from Angela C.
York, ON
I wish I lived closer! I love doing work, having a date or catching up with a friend here. The options of a comfy armchair, big communal table, patio or window bar stool make it ideal for any scenario. They only take cash, so that's the only downfall. But the kind barista let me enjoy my beverage and food and then bike down to the bank to get cash later!
My partner and I came here on our first date and played Scrabble on the big table. It will always have a special place in my heart :) -
Review from Avitania B.
Toronto, ON
Rooster Coffee House gives me something to crow about! (Har, har.)
First, the coffee: it's simply awesome. I had the best iced latte since leaving Seattle. It was silky-smooth, rich, and made my toes curl in delight. Thanks to Rooster's iced latte, I am considerably less homesick for Seattle than I was before I visited. So, yay!
The shop itself is nice, though seating is limited for parties larger than 2. There aren't too many chairs up front, and there is one longer table in the back where multiple people could sit. But it can get a little crowded for close conversation.
The baristas are great, and the pastries are delicious. But definitely try that latte. -
Review from Natalie T.
East York, ON
One of my favourite, if not my favourite, coffee place in the city. The quality is great, the staff friendly and the clientele fun too.
It is as close to a second living room as you will get. The way Shawn and Dave have decorated this place truly makes you feel at home (and wanting to take all of their cool stuff home with you).
Sometimes it's hard to get a seat in the place but even if you're taking your joe to go, the view of the downtown skyline is hard to beat.
I hope it's around for a long time. -
Review from Emily K.
Toronto, ON
Great coffee shop on Broadview!
Have been here a few times, even took some friends visiting from out of town to this place when we went for a walk. They make some amazing drinks. Their staff is super friendly and I love the latte art that they do.
The patio outside is very nice and overlooks Riverdale Park. While I have both gotten coffee to go from there and sat out on the patio, I definitely recommend giving yourself enough time to just sit back and relax at this place. It's totally worth the time! -
Review from John K.
Toronto, ON
BACKGROUND:
Riverdale is the quiet streetcar suburb just far enough from the hustle and bustle of downtown, but close enough to see it from atop Broadview Avenue. Enter the Rooster, where for a solid year now, I've passed by every day on my voyage in and out of downtown. Vivid red umbrellas in the summertime, the warm inviting glow in the winter and always the tantalizing smell of roasted coffee; why haven't I made time in my day to surrender to this potentially wonderful getaway?
EXPERIENCE:
I very easily dismiss most cafés as pretentious; catering to a fairly uptight brand of customer and staffed by baristas with serious attitudes.
The Rooster is anything but!
Good coffee and friends are always the orders-of-the-day at this fine Riverdale establishment. This is truly a neighbourhood joint, as the customers are people that live in my community. Not a resident? No problem! The friendly and welcoming environment created by the baristas behind the counter give the Rooster the potential to be a home away from home, even if you don't live down the street. Four-legged friends also feel right at home with dog bowls and fresh water out front on their patio in the summertime, and doggie treats ready-to-go inside.
Fantastic and warm decor that plays on the theme of our favorite morning bird in a tasteful-not-tacky way, and a fabulous view of Toronto with streetcars gently rolling by, make the Rooster my go-to morning happy place.
I will admit to driving, rocketing, biking and walking by the Rooster far too many times in the past. Now? It's become a staple of my daily morning routine. This is a place that truly cares about the quality of the coffee they serve, as well as the shared experience the brew uniquely creates between friends in a down-to-earth, neighbourhood café.
Five stars. xo -
Review from Jennifer K.
Markham, ON
Rooster Coffee House is one of my favourite Indie Coffee Passport stop!
Maybe just walking along Riverdale Park breathing in the fresh air on this late Sunday afternoon just put me in that good and ready to chill mood? I know I will love Rooster even when I saw their storefront. Big floor to ceiling windows overlooking the park.
When I walked in, the place was packed. But I did not feel that it was busy nor noisy, everyone were talking so softy.. and I felt that it was so quiet?! Busy full of people and quiet.....
This is also the only Indie Coffee Passport Stop I got myself a treat.. those mega cookies displayed at the cash right in front of me were irresistible...and they have Nutella ($1.75) cookies... I just have to get one!!
Cappuccino with latte art... my kind of roast from Te Aro...In a nice cup...from a friendly barista... all positive experience for me!!
Sitting at the communal table enjoying my cookies with my coffee... heavenly sweet. -
Review from Isabella L.
Toronto, ON
Drink: Miami Haze
I read about this on Toronto Life and holy moly macaroni was it sensational. If I were to make up a story as to how this was discovered it would be one day barbie grew a brain and suddenly decided to become an aspiring entrepreneur so she comes up with this great idea of opening a coffee shop, but since she's still a girly stick thin daughterofa kate moss, she puts a total T w i s t on it and not only does she colour her latte PINK, but she needs it to be sweet and aromatic... so the ingredients are things like almonds, cinnamon, organic vanilla extract and beetroot.. topped off with steamed milk. These are all ingredients that just SOUND like it clicks together, but more importantly it tastes amazing.
Good job, Barbie.
I mean, Jay Galbraith.. (:Listed in: Indie Coffee Passport Stops
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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10/9/2010
C O F F E E P A S S P O R T S T O P (#17)
Drink: Soy Green tea latte
Atmosphere: The view is… Read more »
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10/9/2010
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Review from Allison T.
Toronto, ON
I love how friendly the staff is here. They're just generally good natured, it seems. There is humming, singing under their breath - the occasional volume-raising of a favorite song (this time it was Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeroes - Home) - & ...oh. The drinks. Their mocha? Is decadent. & of course, topped with a fancy swirly design.
Free wifi, outdoor seating if its nice enough outside, & binoculars near the window seating to spy...err...casually watch park goers across the street.Listed in: Indie Coffee
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Review from Nick S.
Six word review:
They make good raspberry iced tea! -
Review from WaYnE c.
Maple, ON
Maybe it's a Feng Shui thing for me, while I enjoy the Te Aro brand Cappuccino but as I sat on that comfy Leather Sofa the bright light from the outdoors made me look like a Deer caught in Headlights. It did help with reading Newspaper.
This Riverdale neighbourhood shop faces DIRECTLY the Riverdale Park and the floor-to-ceiling Windows made it very absorbent to natural light. Sounds like I hate sunlight, doesn't it? LOL
Okay, If I give Te Aro 4 *Star* when I look at the bottom of the cup for Crema, Rooster Coffee deserves 3.5 *Star* or slightly higher 3.75(?). It still has that distinct Te Aro flavour everybody loves.Listed in: 3.5 ***Stars***, Coffee Drinks
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Review from Joel B.
Toronto, ON
After spending too much time in the hipster coffee shop scene of the west end its nice to experience the down home atmosphere of this Riverdale coffee shop. Great little spot with a great view of the skyline. The coffee didn't have that burnt taste of someone who might be new the the roasting game. Even though Starbucks has been around their coffee has a horrible burnt taste, well they were far from that. Great rich, smooth latte taste.
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Review from David M.
Toronto, ON
Coffee guy Jay (do coffee guys like to be called baristas, or has Starbucks ruined that title?) was so helpful, friendly and skilled when introducing me to a Cortado, that I had to bump this up to 5-stars. He takes his coffee seriously!
For quality of the coffee, and comfort and decor of the space, this has become my favourite coffee shop.Listed in: Coffee
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/19/2010
Nice interior, comfy patio with nice view of park, excellent coffee and limited but delicious, well… Read more »
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8/19/2010
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Review from Mitch S.
Toronto, ON
Absolutely wonderful! This has been my second stop since receiving my indie coffee passport (look this up) and I'm blown away! As I was approaching this place going North on Broadview there was nothing around then suddenly a bustling patio at Roosters!
The coffee is wonderful and whether you're inside or out the atmosphere is very neighbourhoody and clearly frequented by regulars. They seem to offer a weekly espresso roast that changes weekly and always sounds delicious. This week it's Atomic Roaster with a chocolate and berry tones.
Come check this place out! -
Review from Kat F.
See all the green to the left of the marker on that there Google map? Yeah. It's a park. And you have full view of its gorgeosity directly from Rooster Coffee House's sweet front patio. As I took photos and absorbed everything I loved about this brand new addition to Riverdale, an RCH regular tapped me on the shoulder: "please don't blog about this. It's busy enough here already." Ha!
Board games, orange AND cucumber infused water carafes, a large communal table for your gameplaying, essaying and laptop needs, free wi-fi, slick baked goods...truly a coffee shop enthusiast's dream. Owners are likable and welcoming, and I loved the cappuccino that I ordered. Will definitely be back pronto!Listed in: Reliable Wi-Fi In Toronto, Caffeinate Thyself
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Review from Nicole H.
Toronto, ON
A quick stop-and-go on my Indie Coffee Passport. I ordered a soy latte which was disappointingly cold and weak. I would hope this was a one-off cock-up!
The place otherwise has a lot of charm - mixed and matched seats/couches, a little outside seating and a communal table toward the back. They also have a small selection of snacks & other non-tea/coffee drinks.Listed in: Caffeine Nation: The Toronto…
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Review from Dani L.
Toronto, ON
I do love Rooster.
Handcrafted drinks (beans by Te Aro - need I say more), yummy sandwiches (by the fabulous Loic on Queen), really friendly staff, reliable wi-fi, and super cosy environment.
I think I have more meetings here than in my office.
One thing, Rooster - you'll get another star if you add rings to tie dogs up outside. Right now, people are using tables and chairs - super dangerous, especially with the street right there. I've seen a dog boot across the street with leash attached to a chair.
Otherwise, I love you Rooster. Never change. -
Review from Will L.
Toronto, ON
Absolutely gorgeous cafe!
Went here with some other Yelpers for a East End Coffee Crawl. Shawn, one of the co-founders of this place, immediately recognized me as she used to be a Te Aro compatriot before she opened Rooster. I gave her a high five for remembering me.
Anyway, as I said, this spot is gorgeous, as it overlooks Riverdale Park and is great for a morning meetup or a date for that matter.
Their Americanos are fantastic as they use Te Aro's Big Bro Espresso beans, which I thoroughly enjoy after getting on this coffee enthusiast kick.
would definitely recommend this place to anyone who's looking to check out awesome independent coffee spots across Toronto :) -
Review from Kelly L.
North Vancouver, BC
Staff are awesome and know their customers by name. They make a great cup of ginger honey latte! Would definitely go back and hang out on their patio in the sun again.
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Review from sarah l.
Rooster was busy on the Sunday that I visited and has a completely different crowd than the other local espresso bars. It's full of nice people who live in the area and want to chill on the patio with their dogs on a Sunday morning.
The good:
- GREAT selection of baked goods... some from circles and squares bakery (as you know my FAVORITE muffins in Toronto.. BAnanananananananana chocolate chip).
- Lots of seats and lots of space, big communal table!
- Great salvage wood - I love salvage wood... *sigh* [1]
- Really friendly staff - this is definitely a customer service oriented coffee shop. These folks were extremely happy to chat with us about where they got their wood slabs, their beans and what they make and bake in house.
- Infused waters - orange AND cucumber! That was pretty great.
- Dog friendly patio - and kind of a cool patio. I like how all the chairs are set up on two's and face the park. You can move them around however you like though.
- They have my favorite pop, Stewart's Key Lime Soda.
The bad:
- Nowhere to lock up your bike. I didn't see a bike rack and there are no city bike posts in front of the shop. A lot of people seemed to have trustingly leaned their bikes against the telephone pole in hopes that the patio crowd would halt would-be thieves... I don't know if I would do that (not that I have a nice bike or anything; I still don't want to have to get another one).
- Te Aro espresso. OK... so I know a lot of you love Te Aro's beans... and I like their drip beans but I don't like their espresso. Personal taste I guess, but I'm not feeling that bean selection. It would be acceptable if they used Te Aro beans as their house offering and had a rotating feature bean (why is Mercury the ONLY place that does this? It's SUCH a good idea.)
Overall, this place is great and I will DEFINITELY be back. I really liked almost everything about it. I hope there aren't a lot of children here in the summer (but I feel like there might be). And I will wear headphones.
-------------a-la susan c.---------
[1] Can anyone tell me the name of the place downtown on a 1 way street that sells salvage wood slabs? It's not urban tree salvage, but there is a different place. NEED to know.Listed in: Coffee in…, Turn Down Your Baby
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Review from Frankie L.
Toronto, ON
Love it. Feels homely. Latte excellent. Nice neighborhood vibe. Comfy leather sofas. Great place for quick coffee or longer hang out.
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Review from Tina H.
This is a nice place. Staff is friendly. I got a coffee in a French press, which is one of my favourite ways to have it. It was the last one on the list, the finca Alaska one, and it was really good. The barista ended up bringing me some milk but I couldn't ruin the coffee by putting milk in it, it was really good on its own and I was really enjoying it as is.
The butter tarts were super delicious. I had to skip out on the brownie that was in the fridge/freezer because the centre was frozen (but they seemed to not know that and they took them out of the freezer right away, which shows that they care!)
The espresso is pretty good, though I'm not one for espresso really. I've only had espresso that I liked once, and that was in Paris, so I guess it's hard to match that in Toronto, but in Vancouver where I currently live, there's some good espresso to be had so I was hoping to be blown away (but not so much).
Saw some guy actor when I was in there, I think. Not sure but I think I've seen him on TV.
Best part ever: the board games that are on the large (and lopsided) communal table. Scrabble... DELUX ONYX EDITION SCRABBLE... So much fun! I spent at least a couple of hours playing Scrabble with a friend and consuming caffeine and sugary baked goods. Perfect formula for diabetes but it was lots of fun.
The washrooms are also very impressive for a coffee shop.
The decor is pretty nice. Maybe a bit plain because of the white/light coloured walls but the dark hardwood and the tables made out of trees were pretty cool. Some marble tables. Leather sofa chairs, old briefcases for decorations. They did a pretty nice job with the decor, it's definitely a cozy place.
When I'm back in Toronto I'll make an effort to come back here, it's a nice spot for sure! They had me at Scrabble. -
Review from Judy M.
Toronto, ON
Have passed this place several times and finally stopped in to try it out. RCH is a great little spot overlooking the park. Staff were friendly and accommodating.
Sat out on the patio and enjoyed a latte, cappuccino and espresso. I like Te Aro beans so was happy with my drink. We shared a lemon pound cake, lemon ginger scone and a cinnamon bun. All were acceptable.
What makes this place special is the great view, outdoor dog friendly patio and great service. I will try the drip coffee next time. -
Review from Amanda L.
Toronto, ON
Five stars for a completely fanatastic atmosphere. Overlooking riverdale park, with a small patio out front and comfy chairs inside. A good selection of hot and cold drinks and very yummy looking desserts. The entire place is very tidy, especially the washrooms (I often use this as a barometer for the cleanliness of a whole place). I try to stop in here whenever I am in the neighbourhood!
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Review from Rich T.
Toronto, ON
Just opened up a few weeks ago. Stopped by for the first time after work for a mocha pick me up. Tasty. For those in the area, seems like it will be a great spot to pick up some early morning fuel before getting on the streetcar (nothing else nearby). Also, looks like they may also have free Wi-Fi for those lazy afternoons when cabin fever sets in. Menu of items was still not up but it could be a neighbourhood hit particularly after tobogganing down Riverdale Park in the winter. +ives: solid coffee -ives: starting up so not the quickest service just yet. Will be back.
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Review from Luke A.
Fantastic coffee in a bright, inviting space overlooking Riverdale Park East. There are big comfy chairs and a large, handsome wooden table for the portable workers like myself with free wifi and a power bar thoughtfully close by. The staff are very friendly and ask everyone if they've enjoyed their coffee. Tasty muffins, scones and pastries are also on offer.
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Review from Ella B.
Toronto, ON
Great atmosphere love the comfy couches. The cappuccino here was wonderful, and I like that they have different daily blends. Among other cool things about this neighborhood spot, I was pretty impressed with their board game and water selection - regular water, cucumber and orange water. The Rooster has a really cute patio and free parking right outside. Free wifi is a nice to have as well.
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Review from Jay U.
Toronto, ON
Rooster is an outstanding coffee shop experience from the moment you get near the place, with a large and sunny dog-friendly patio facing Riverdale Park. The pleasant and knowledgeable staff have memorized my typical drink after just a few visits, and the espresso is first rate, especially when topped off with raw brown sugar. The decor is welcoming indoors and out, and they clearly know a lot about how to make great espresso drinks. I have become a regular and expect that they will be especially successful in summer weather.
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Review from Shawn B.
Oshawa, ON
It looks like it should be a stuffy hangout for folks with little dogs in handbags, but walk through the doors and the Rooster's minimal, modern décor and hip yet surprisingly friendly staff will make you wish you worked from home so that all your coffee breaks could be spent here on the patio, overlooking the best view in the city: Riverdale Park.
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Review from Christine F.
Toronto, ON
We live in Riverdale and prefer to support local business, and this is a fabulous new addition to the area. It is not only a beautiful space, but the coffee is outstanding and the owners and staff are genuinely nice, with no attitude about them. We visit whenever we can and so appreciate the effort to create a welcoming environment for all customers, including the little ones. It takes a lot of work to make it look this effortless and we really admire what the owners have created here. Highly highly recommended!
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Review from Sarah L.
North York, ON
I went to explore a new coffee shop with my mom and boyfriend that opened not too long ago, called The Rooster Coffee Shop. I remember driving by the space on Broadview south of Danforth a couple times over the past five months and noticing construction and something new brewing in the neighbourhood. Well the word on the street is that it opened in December 2009 by Shawn Andrews and her partner Dave. The result of their hard work and entrepreneurship is a super cute, modern-meets-French subway tile-meets-vintage looking coffee shop with fun board games, magazines and coffee table books met set in the backdrop of communal and individual seating. Two cappuccino and one hot chocolate later, the three of us felt satisfied and warmed by our selections. I loved the hot chocolate. It was rich and creamy and was generously covered with marshmallows. The two opposing coffee palates both decided that Rooster Coffee House's coffee was "nice," "dark," "flavourful," and they loved the little "leaf milk designs" on top. I can't comment because I have never had a cup of coffee in my life. My favourite thing about the Rooster Coffee House is its view through the big storefront windows overlooking the valley adjacent to Broadview. For the non-coffee drinker, they serve tea from Tealish (Queen and Walnut)Go check it out- it's a good alternative to Broadview espresso which is tiny and Si which is also tiny. This is a place where you can sit comfortably for the afternoon and have a meeting, lose yourself in a book or catch up with a friend. It's full of life and interesting things to look at. Rooster coffee shop is located at 479 Broadview Avenue and is open seven days a week early in the morning until dinner time.
