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Sam James Coffee Bar
Category: Food Coffee & Tea Coffee & Tea [Edit]
297 Harbord StToronto, ON M6G 1G7
Neighbourhoods: Palmerston, Bickford Park
(647) 341-2572
- Hours:
Mon-Fri 7 am - 7 pm
Sat 8 am - 6 pm
Sun 9 am - 5 pm
- Price Range:
-
$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- No
- Parking:
- Street
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
44 reviews for Sam James Coffee Bar
Review Highlights
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"I had an espresso, and it was as one would wish." In 16 reviews -
"I really want to try the siphon coffee sometime." In 5 reviews -
"A half pound of take home beans runs you $9 bones." In 3 reviews
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44 reviews in English
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Review from Isaac Y.
Toronto, ON
12/19/2011 5 Check-ins Here
Sam James makes the best coffee in Toronto, bar none. Being one of the most decorated barista in Toronto, and not letting it go to his head helps. The place is understated/cozy. And don't you DARE to park your car in front of the store!
If you have the palette to appreciate a good coffee, do yourself a huge favour. Go to SJCB and order a cappuccino, and skip those favour shots or soy milk non-sense. You will love it. Even better yet, just get an espresso (and never add any sugar to ruin it!) -
Review from Elvis A.
Sam James name cropped up consistently when I was searching for good cappuccino in TO. A few folks even went as far as saying its the top spot for this hard to master drink.
So with high expectation I trekked all the way up here. The location is somewhat accessible as its a 5-10 min from Bathurst station (apparently there is another express location right on Bloor street).
The setup is nice and cozy with a few seating spots and a small preparation area.
The Menu interestingly consists of old school and new iteration of drinks (cappuccino is under old style so one doesn't have option there to try it the "new" way ) there is not much to play here as they have standard sizes for espresso drinks. Prices are vey reasonable for espresso drinks (cash only though)
The serving size is small by modern standards for cappuccino. Interesting thing is that even though cappuccino is labeled as old style it is served the modern way (wet cappuccino) with latte art and all.
The latte art was decent on the drink with crema nicely spread under the nicely frothed milk so good marks for presentation here. Now for the main drink first sip didn't go down well as milked didn't have the sweet finish one desires and the espresso had a rough finish. After a couple of sip it mellowed out a bit but overall not much of an improvement.
Drink was 2 star IMO with a half star added for value. -
Review from Ksenja T.
10/3/2011
So I came here this Sunday afternoon, very chill vibe. It was freezing outside so the warmth and smell of coffee just engulfed me as I entered this small joint..It is really small indeed...not very many places to sit but a great grab and go type place. Diverse crowd, ranging from university students to adults and children...seems like a neighbourhood hot spot.
LOVE the little nick nacks on the wall, especially the old family photos...or the little plaques ie. "booze is the answer." I had heard great things about Sam James, so I had high expectations.
We got two lattes. When I said "one non-fat latte" I was given a look. I KNOW this is not Starbucks, this is a real deal coffee place. But what can a girl do? Don't hate me because I want non-fat milk. Is that a crime? It turns out the lowest they carried was 2% which was FINE. The latte was GREAT, I could have easily drank two. Will definitely come back, maybe even try one of their treats. -
Review from Lisa C.
Toronto, ON
8/24/2011 2 Check-ins Here
Love SJCB!
I'm a regular as it's on my route to work, but I would actually go out of my way for the vanilla latte here. I've heard rumours that they make their own vanilla... to be confirmed.
At times I've had service that leaves much to be desired, but I suppose I'd be a little frazzled too if I had to contend with the lineups that often happen here.
I would agree with Rafi on the croissant front - they just don't compare to Nadege or Clafouti. However, one taste of the oatmeal cookies and they will forever the effect on you that a bell has on one of Pavlov's dogs.
If you're looking to take home beans so you don't have to make the trip each morning, I highly recommend the Guatemalan or the Ethiopian Yirgacheffe.
Tip: Cash Only -
Review from jenna m.
10/20/2011 6 Check-ins Here
Sam James Coffee Bar
Sam James located at 297 Harbord Street offers in my opinion the best coffee in town. Situated on of my favourite streets in the annex, Sam James brews a delightful array of coffee based beverages including but not limited to: espresso, lattes, drip coffee, and cappuccinos. Several non-caffeinated products are available as well. The vanilla extract is apparently made in house and is totally delicious-I strongly suggest the vanilla latte, which is prepared with such beautiful care by the lovely baristas. A half pound of take home beans runs you $9 bones. Bring cold hard cash, no debit services available. Street parking available on Harbord right across the street.
Sam is a super cool cat. His strong knowledge of fine quality coffee is abundant. His subtle charisma is even more abundant. Sam James offers some delicious baked goods as well. I recommend the oatmeal cookie. The decor is very kitsch and authentic. Seating is limited in the coffee bar; however, in finer weather you will often find people chilling on stools in front of SJ. Prices are reasonably within market value and totally worth every penny. " Sam James coffee, mornings just suck without it!"
But make um understand its Westside foe life!
Thanks so much for you time! -
Review from Nikkita F.
Stratford, ON
7/28/2011 1 Check-in Here
It is as good as it gets.
I know Sam from a million years ago, before he was a superstar Barista. I was so happy when I found out he was opening his own place. SJCB is a super fun little place, minimalist in styling, Unique with Personalized Art, very easy to go into, and the Espresso, Cappuccino, and Americano's are to die for! With a strong group of Barista Superstars working there, you get something fabulous every time. No Fast Pours, No Sour or Bitter Long Pours, All just Superstar Service and Quality. The Steamed Milk art is divine, and it is foamtastic by request. They also always have fresh treats. They do the laborious Siphon Coffee which is badass, and this is the first place I have ever seen that in Toronto.
I LOVE to point this out...
This shop is not dirtied up by a flood of MAC users trying to be all scene and show off how awesome they are. I like that so much! I am from a small place, where everyone drinks coffee when they are at a coffee shop. I have seen some people read books and the paper, and good on those people, Sam makes this place feel like home!! I also love that people skate board out front, and there are always cyclists zooming by and there are people from every walk of life in this place getting buzzed on caffeine.
SJCB and the Pocket are the only two places I will hit up coffee not created by moi at Chez Nikkita. Sam however suggests places & other barista's to try that he likes in the city, he is a spread the love kind of a dude.
Try Sam James Coffee Bar, one word description is QUALITY.
Note: There is no bathroom here, so suck it up, Hold it and unleash the furry elsewhere. -
Review from WaYnE c.
Maple, ON
4/6/2011 1 photo
- ~ Koffee Krawl ~ - # 1
As I step foot within SJCB, I met 2 of my Fav Yelpers HOARDing the corner territory in what others have noted as a TINY space. The word Teeny would refer to Sam James Coffee Pocket instead.
Not as Plain-Jame as the Pocket since there's unique antique-ish items thru-out but that's only if you have the pleasure to obtain one of the handful of seats. It's like SJCB is a catwalk for Hipsters to show off. One after another came in posing for the Non-hip me-ster.
Cappuccino($2.62) - The Milk/Espresso ratio made it Latte-like.
# Location
------l------------------------------------------- -----
? I Sam James Coffee Pocket
1 I SAM JAMES COFFEE BAR
2 I Cafe Pamenar
3 I Dark Horse (Queen W)
4 I Thor Espresso Bar
5 I Jimmy's Coffee( I Timed Out @@)Listed in: Coffee Drinks
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Review from Jennifer K.
Markham, ON
4/7/2011 7 photos
Sam James Coffee Bar is awesome! A great first stop to start off our Koffee Krawl!
Since most of our RSVPed Yelpers decided to slept in.. only 5 of us travelling all the way from uptown made it to this first stop. SJCB though small and have limited seatings, we able to park ourselves in the corner and enjoy our first cup of coffee!
Love the big windows overlooking Harbord Street... feels like that time just stop at this moment.. sipping great coffee with my fellow yelpers!
SJCB limited seatings does give it a different vibe compares to Linuxcaffe just more like a neighbourhood in and out coffee stop, instead of a place where people study... (should they be doing that in a library?)
My cappuccino was A-OK!! I have to say one of the best of the day... strong, nutter and have a nice after taste.... size is smaller but it is cheaper too!
Thanks Karl R for getting me my first cappuccino of the day!Listed in: Coffee, Tea or.........., Just Love Being Independent!
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Review from Robert K.
2/25/2011
I have nothing new to add here. Everyone has noted that the coffee is very good, the prices surprisingly cheap, and the space very small.
I was living in London for 2010, so I missed some things here in Toronto. Now I'm back and catching up. Late to the Sam James party. Yeah, it's good. I had an espresso, and it was as one would wish. -
Review from Erwin M.
6/12/2011 1 photo
at last, I finally get to visit a much hyped coffee shop and the barista who's part of that hype is actually present and running the show. In this case sam james.
definitely 5 stars for me. Trying to think how else my espresso could have been improved but I drew a blank. everything was spot on. I got to witness a little showmanship, very reasonable prices, perfect quantity, and above all, just great coffee prepared as best it could.
Bisogno alone used to be my fav place for coffee, and now I have two. -
Review from Tanya N.
4/6/2011
*3.5 stars*
My latte was good - milk was velvety but thought it tasted a bit too milky so it overwhelmed the espresso. The rosetta leaf the barista made was probably the best I've seen here and in Vancouver. It's a shame when I have to cover it with a lid.
Limited seating so I wouldn't come here expecting to find one. They have about 3 bar stools facing the front window and an indoor park bench.
Service was sufficient.Listed in: For the Love of Lattes, My .5 Reviews
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Review from Jen R.
Toronto, ON
3/12/2011
I'm loving the Coffee Pocket! I stop by when out walking our black Lab puppy. It's small enough that one early morning I was able to open the door- ask for my Americano and then tie the pup up - leaving him only for a short time while paying and oohing and ahhhing at their muffins and treats (if only there was something gluten-free).
I've just read that the Pocket opens at 6:30am weekdays, fantastic!
the coffee- sweet and dreamy. -
Review from geraldine g.
Toronto, ON
3/25/2011
4.5 stars for me.
This small space houses one giant coffee punch!
It`s one of those rare times where I can say all the buzz about a place is true. i admit, i came in with an air of reluctance.
My favourite way to test a place is, how good the old cup of joe was.
I started walking to my next destination, really wishing I had ordered a large or bought a bag of their roast. i was so happy!!!
I can easily say that cup of joe is the best by far in the city. I haven`t tried the siphon coffee but if the roast is as good then I can only imagine the flavour enhanced in their remaining offerings.
The problem with this place is the size. It`s a grab and go establishment but I really wish it wasn`t. -
Review from Michelle G.
Toronto, ON
10/4/2010 1 photo
I ordered a soy latte and it was PERFECT. Just a perfect cup, the flavour was so smooth and delicious. I walked in mid barista banter, which was pretty entertaining, and while the space is really small, I managed to come in when it wasn't too busy and got a seat.
I really want to try the siphon coffee sometime. -
Review from Kate M.
When Zack S. was like "Hey Kate let's check out Sam James Coffee Bar!" I was like "I think I've heard of it..." and then in my head I was like "I hope it's not to far... I hope it's not trendy stupid"
Then I went. It was a bit of a walk. But it was so worth it! Not stupid at all! More info? OKAYS!
a) Tasty tasty drinks! I ordered the chai latte and the (attractive) barista was all "I think I can offer you something better..." Guess was the something better was! Did you guess? Okay now I'm just going to assume that you guessed incorrectly. Wanna know? Am I dragging this out for too long? Yes? Answer? I ended up with an "Apple Chaider"!
Wow sorry for that. I just wanted to hype up this fantastic drink THAT I HAD TWO OF! Damn. So great. Apple cider AND chai? My wildest dreams have come true.
b) Yeah there's nowhere to sit. Deal with it.
c) Order the almond croissant! It's not too almondy! Just right!
d) Cash only.
e) Just as I was talking about my love of Owen Pallett/Final Fantasy's music, his music began playing!
I'll be back! Good walking destination! For sure check it out! Just don't expect to sit there for a long time. -
Review from Ben S.
Toronto, ON
3/13/2011
Great cappucino.
Wish they had different food options (same as many other coffee shops), and wish they had a larger space to enjoy the coffee in. -
Review from Greg C.
Toronto, ON
12/15/2009
The last stop on the Natey/Gory West End Espresso Crawl ! Sam James Coffee Bar.
Literally a tiny storefront without a bathroom. I guess it's cute but there are so many people here you don't notice.
Nathan and I previously enjoyed this dude's work at Hank's Café. But this is some next-level shit.
The beans are from some microbrewery in Montreal that specializes in supplying restaurants or whatever. I'm trying to stall because I was too lazy and wired to ask for the name again. Best beans!
Sam himself wasn't pulling the shot but the guy who did knew his stuff.
The shot looked smoother and not as deep as the previous cups. The coffee hits in waves. Literally flavour waves. Dips and peaks of bold and mellow. We leave and the shot is still on the palette. The best I've had in Toronto.
We both comment on how the shot gave us a moment of clarity. But I think the customers at Soundscapes Music who overheard my top albums and singles of the year in a 2 minute synopsis might disagree.
Lovely stop to a wonderful run. Stay tuned for the East End crawl.Listed in: Natey / Gory West-End Espresso…
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Review from Eliah H.
Toronto, ON
3/11/2010
Having recently settled in the lower Annex neighbourhood, the coffee snob in me decided to venture forth in search of some tasty local brew. A short trip down Harbord St. W and what should I find but Sam James Coffee Bar. Who is Sam James? A bit of a celebrity espresso shot puller who's won the Canadian Central Regional Barista Championship and has worked in some of Toronto's favored cafes, namely Manic Coffee and Cherry Bomb.
Now in his very own cafe' that bears his name Sam James and his well trained staff are treating the locals (and those willing to travel) to some first rate espresso based drinks. The coffee beans used at Sam James Coffee Bar are imported from Quebec and though I have tasted superior (in my opinion) beans I feel the beans they use produce quite a tasty brew notches above many other popular Toronto cafes. Each barista I've met there seem quite competent in delivery an espresso based drink as it's properly meant to be. I've enjoyed Americanos, espressos and lattes and can vouch for the quality. Aside from the coffee the cafe also offers croissants for those who want something to munch on as they sip their caffeinated brew.
Aside from being competent baristas the staff at Sam James Coffee Bar are super friendly, heck they're downright neighborly! How many cafe' staff actually bother to get to know their customer's names? Well they do here and it makes return visits all the more tempting.
Decor-wise the establishment has a retro feel without being cliche. Think of it as some tiny mom 'n pop shop from the 50's or 60's. Note that seating is severely limited here as the place is too small to house tables and chairs. Staying in you have a side bench and a short window counter. Better to step outside and enjoy your brew as you gaze upon the neighborhood surroundings.
Though I still have many more local cafe joints to explore I know I will definitely be a regular at Sam James Coffee Bar for the brew and excellent customer service.
TIP: Bring your own mug and save .25c!Listed in: Eliah's Big List of Go To…
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Review from sarah l.
12/17/2009
There are no decorations here. There is nowhere to sit. It's really far from my house.
So, I walk in and I see Emma, the only person I ever liked at Te Aro. She was all, "Heeeeyyy!" and I was all... "I'll have..." and she interrupted me and said "a cappuccino!" And I was like... you remembered!
The pros:
- coffee is good
- they have a really elaborate cash register even though they only sell ten things
- Emma now works here and she is +1
- lots of street parking in and around the area
The bad:
- there is nowhere to sit
- it's really far from my house
- it's basically an empty room with 2 grinders, an espresso machine and a cash register - it's really weird-feeling and has no identifiable personality
Would I go here again?
If I was in the area. I don't think this place is as 5-star amazing as everyone else does, and if Emma hasn't been there making my coffee and talking about Deep River Ontario, I would probably rate this a 3.
Let the Sarah hating begin. -
Review from Dylan D.
3/25/2010
Everybody settle down. This place ain't that good.
First let's talk about the coffee. I went to this place expecting espresso bliss and, while competent, it's not genius. To be fair, part of the issue for me is a taste preference. I'm a cappuccino drinker and I prefer velvety chocolate caramel notes in my espresso. The espresso was extracted fine but was too bright and acidic for my preference. The milk was frothed decent but not perfect.
I might give these guys three stars if it wasn't for the following secondary things.
The croissant was overly doughy and dense and didn't have a wonderful flavour.
My wife ordered a hot chocolate and they dumped some chocolate milk from a carton into the pitcher and steamed it up. Now, if this were to produce the tastiest chocolate milk known to humanity then I'm all for it. But it didn't. It was lacking in flavour and overly sweet. I know this place is supposed to be about the coffee, but cocoa is a close cousin. Put some friggin' love into it!
I didn't get the friendly or neighbourly service that others are going on about.
I'm all for small specialized places. But if you are going to have no comfort or ambiance you better make up for it with tremendous quality and service. -
Review from Rafi N.
Toronto, ON
4/4/2011
This was the first stop on a coffee crawl.
The cafe is quite small, but it's mostly for people getting coffee and treats to go. So the size isn't bad, just small.
The coffee was better than a typical chain coffee (like Tim Horton's), but it didn't strike me as particularly great. It was good. I had a croissant, which was cold and hard. I was expecting something soft and warm.
The service was quick and mundane. The woman who took my order seemed like she was under the influence of some drug, most likely a depressant (alcohol, weed?). Maybe it was just a Sunday morning and she was out partying the previous night. Having said this, I'm not complaining about the service, because it wasn't bad.
I can't remember the exact pricing, but since I had a cold, hard croissant, I will say that it's too expensive. No one should ever have to pay for a hard, cold croissant.
If you're in the neighborhood and looking for a good coffee, you should stop in at Sam James, but avoid the croissants.Listed in: Psychoactive Stimulants
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Review from Nathan W.
Toronto, ON
12/13/2009
Stop # 4 on the Gory n' Pantz Espresso Run - West End.
This is the stop we have most been looking forward too. Gory and I have very pleasant memories of some great shot's Sam served up to us at Hank's last year. Or was it possibly earlier this year? In any case, we were doing a similar espresso run in the east end and it was the highlight. The talk about the new shop has been overwhelmingly positive, it promised to once again be a highlight for this run.
While I had been twice, Gory had not, being firmly ensconced in Leslieville's breeder zone. Out now on his day pass; buzzing happily, we entered to a milling throng reminiscent of the Cherry Bomb crowd we had encountered earlier in the day. Apparently, lots of people actually do live around Harbord and Clinton and the shops location is not as crazy as it seems.
Gory orders up some short shots. I don't believe the term ristretto is used.
Look - Cup is not wide, more small and thin, and I can't get a really good look for variation in colour, I'm just seeing the top. From what I see, the crema looks good.
Smell - at this point, after three doubles I'm having trouble picking up much beyond 'coffee'. That said, no off notes
Taste - A brief berry tangy note, developing some toasted bread with butter flavours and then finally a rounded, nutty milk chocolate finish. Five minutes later walking down Clinton to College, we still tasted it. No other shot we had on our run had multiple layers of flavour like this one did.
Rating - Tori Amos, Regina Spektor and Kate Bush back up Leonard Cohen on "Life On Mars"
As expected, the highlight of the run. Extra bonus points go to the fact that Sam was in the shop but not pulling shots. I don't know the name of his staff, but the guy is good. I also believe it's the beans currently in use. A roaster out of Quebec, I think the fact they weren't a dark roast really allowed them to be fully expressed without the common bitterness issues that happen around town.
Final confession - as much as I love a good espresso, I'm probably more excited by the siphon coffee on offer. Must try next. -
Review from Melissa F.
Toronto, ON
Updated - 11/23/2009
sam james is better than crack.
I TTC, (that's right..I said TTC) ALL the way from st. lawrence to get an espresso here. it's THAT good.
Who cares that the place is as big as my arm span?
The beans here are so good I understand why they would want to have just a take and go place. If there were tables/chairs here I might LIVE here.
Best part is, I dont' mind giving it RAVE reviews because it's not like YOUR ass in my cafe is gonna crowd me out since its a strictly take-out place.
= )
Best kept secret, no more.
try the crack. it's good.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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11/13/2009
kind of THE most lacklustre cafe you will ever find. Th eplace looks like a barbar shop turned… Read more »
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Review from Michael P.
Toronto, ON
4/30/2010
Reviewed this café for my blog - I felt welcomed and engaged during the time in his shop learning things about the espresso that I drank while Sam was open to my tastes and thoughts. A true ambassador to the coffee amateur.
The espresso blend that he uses is Espressone from Toi et Moi. The excecution of the shot is carfully looked at as it is coming out while also being carefully timed by a timer (not something I have seen often).
The nose on it is earthy and woody. The first sip awakens my senses unexpectantly with a lot of fruity brightness which is short lived. Then is followed by a long smooth finish of many layered flavours including dark chocolate with sweetness and overall balanced earthiness. The taste seems to linger for a long time and leaves a very pleasant feeling in my mouth.
Not something I expected, but definitely something that I would like to repeat. -
Review from Kent P.
6/22/2010 1 Check-in Here
Good spot. Excellent quality old school coffee drinks.
Hard to beat the lattes... and at 3.25, it's a steal.
Caveats: cash only + tiny space. -
Review from Sam G.
Toronto, ON
5/8/2010
Great americanos, friendly service. Very few seats and no washrooms. I understand no-wifi - but not when the atmosphere is non-conducive to conversations.
4 as take-away, 3 as sit-in. Average 3.5 - knock it down to three. -
Review from Brian H.
5/16/2010
Came here on a recommendation based on the owner's reputation. The shop had a good local vibe and the kids behind the counter were cheerful and friendly.
But if you admit you can't pour me a ristretto "because the machine is not calibrated for it", then homes, in the words of Aphex Twin, "you need to take your momma car home".
A good spot for the layman, but this is not Toronto's answer to SF's Bluebottle or Seattle's Vivace. -
Review from Sonya K.
Toronto, ON
7/13/2011
I LOVE this place.
I love the environment, the consistently delicious caps. The crowd here is quite laid-back and unpretentious.
My favourite part of coming here is the staff. They are so warm and friendly. They have "spotted" me a cap when I had no cash on me. I really think the whole coffee visit should be an experience and Sam James delivers - their coffees are delicious, they are proud of their product, seem so passionate about their work and seem like genuinely warm people.
A highly recommended Cafe!! -
Review from mondayjane s.
Toronto, ON
6/3/2010
My favorite coffee in the city, knocking Jet Fuel out of its long-held number one spot.
Plus I think everyone in the neighbourhood must admit to having a little crush on Mr. Sam James. He and his staff are super-personable and welcoming, and really care about making you an excellent coffee. -
Review from jessica m.
7/2/2010
It depends on what you are looking for on whether or not you would want to checkout same james.
the coffee is amazing! so totally awesome in that regard, but the space is super tiny. If you are looking for an superbulous cup of coffee on the run then this is the place for you! if you are looking for a place to hangout, read, socialize while drinking your fantabulous coffee this is not the place for you.
oh yeah and its cash only... -
Review from Marie F.
5/9/2010 1 Check-in Here
Not many seats here but the service was quick and the barista didn't look flustered one bit when we asked for six cappuccinos all at once.
Like Sam G stated, there are no washrooms (which posed quite a problem when doing an espresso crawl).
I should note that they are part of the Disloyalty Card coffee joints in Toronto: http://www.yelp.ca/top... -
Review from Dallas H.
11/28/2009
Quality is the only gimmick here. A straightforward coffee bar that delivers the goods--guaranteed proper. A simple, easy-to-read menu board, keen baristas (including the legendary Mr. James himself), très chic décor, yummy baked goods (including killer croissants), and a handy Harbord Street location make for a winning combination.
I'm guessing the other reviewers who say this place is tiny haven't spent much time in Manhattan. For a take-away spot, the interior is plenty big. -
Review from Jennifer B.
12/6/2010 1 photo
drinks: amazing. on par with intelligentsia.
prices: below average. lattes, mochas, soy, vanilla are all the same price.
space: tiny. only seats 3. -
Review from Meghan N.
Mississauga, ON
7/8/2010
We are trying to visit all the Toronto Coffee Conspiracy shops while on our Staycation this week. I was a little underwhelmed with Sam James Coffee Bar - I like my cafes to be a welcoming spot. And while the staff were super friendly, there were only a few stools, and they were mostly occupied, so it didn't seem like a great place to hang out.
My cappuccino was very pretty, but a little on the sharp side. I think if you needed a good coffee on the way somewhere, it's a good spot, but if you want to sit and stay awhile, it's not the spot for you. -
Review from Anthony W.
5/20/2011
Took a walk here after hearing about it from a shop owner on Queen Street... A very nice and simple place. A perfect cup.
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Review from Adam P.
Toronto, ON
12/7/2009 ROTD 2/19/2010
A Letter To Sam James:
Oh Sam James; why must you make me take a star off your 5 star rating because you have only a few stools to sit on. Maybe I get it. Maybe you don't want the hipsters studying and the aspiring film writers to park their derrière at your place all day using up your electricity and your wifi bandwidth. But when you and your fellow baristas serve me a piping hot siphon coffee in the equivalent of a juice glass I need a place to sit and soak in the moment. Keith B, Jeremy V and myself went on a coffee crawl because of you and your siphon coffee to see how it compares with what Toronto has to offer. With your popularity it will be tough to ever find a free stool, especially for 3. Although it would have been nice to have the hand of the coffee saviour himself serve me, the other guy was pretty good. From educating us of the inner working of the siphon to describing how it would taste on my palette, all occurred as described.
Your siphon coffee does not have that bitter bite that other coffee's have and maybe even putting some cream and sugar in it will destroy the natural glory it creates. This coffee is in a close race with the other well known clover machine. Of course because I don't know much about the coffee business model and its expenses, and unless it is the handpicked beans you seek from across the globe I only wish this coffee was a dollar or two cheaper.
IF...check that...WHEN I return, I must try some of your other delectable cups to find the one which has made people love you so much. -
Review from Mohammad G.
10/25/2011
if i ever move to toronto and get bay area homesick ill come here for my coffee cure. this was the best coffee i had in toronto. crafted really well. had a great cortado. chilled at the bar...felt better. walked out. nice.
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Review from Tina D.
10/24/2010
I ordered the Soy Latte today and I thought it was pretty darn good. My favorite coffee place is Intelligentsia and I thought it would be tough to beat.
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Review from K B.
Toronto, ON
11/22/2010
The best coffee in the city in my opinion. Ordered a cappuccino yesterday and was thinking about it hours later. I only wish it was closer and I could call this my local.
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Review from Denise S.
5/18/2010
Stopped by today and had a latte made by Sam James himself. It was artfully done and perfectly smooth. 1 size only (honestly, the large/extra large sizes at other places are alarming! who can drink that much coffee?!?). I had read all the praise/buzz, but was glad to find that the place and namesake owner were down to earth and warm. Since it was nice out, my friend and I sat outside on the stools. I didn't realize it closes at 7pm on weekdays. As James was closing up, he gave us each some croissants to take home with us (gratis!). They were divine. That seals the deal. Count me among Sam James' loyal following. I will definitely be back.
Listed in: Cafe Culture
