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Sense Appeal Coffee Roasters
Category: Food Coffee & Tea Coffee & Tea [Edit]
96 Spadina AveSte 101
Toronto, ON M5V 2J6
Neighbourhood: Downtown Core
(416) 907-8524
- Hours:
Mon-Fri 8 am - 7 pm
Sat 9 am - 6 pm
- Price Range:
-
$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
46 reviews for Sense Appeal Coffee Roasters
Review Highlights
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"I wanted to try the dulce de leche drink but they were all..." In 3 reviews -
"at "Strawberry Jam" in an Espresso tasting note." In 12 reviews -
"I ordered the cappuccino and my friend had a Turkish Latte." In 4 reviews
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46 reviews in English
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Review from Natalie T.
East York, ON
1/12/2012
Yay! This is my 100th review and my favourite coffee shop! (Tied with The Rooster). I saved it for this one.
VIBE
Bustling. If you walk by, you won't notice it (the sign helps) but inside it's like this coffee crack den that only insiders know about (save for social media & crowdsourcing sites. Ahem). The baristas here are top notch and even if they're busy they always make sure to say hi and give you a smile. Super important. Sometimes, you even get introduced to other patrons in line. It's a mix of office folk vs. hipster vs. foodie insider. High ceilings. Small space but remember you can use the upper areas as well. I WISH the wi-fi worked here (not sure if it does. I confess it's been months since I've been in).
I DRINK/EAT
I LOVE their Turkish Latte. Their horchata is also heavenly. These guys used to be sommeliers so they know their tastes inside out. They've gotten me out of my chai latte routine. Also, that dulce de leche drink is amazing and so unique on the coffee scene. And if you want to top off the sweetness? May I suggest the nutella pastry? They have white and dark chocolate. It's to die for. I need to come back!
I heard they're installing a new (real) kitchen and I'd love to try more of their food options because I know they're going to knock it out of the park.
OBLIGATORY CATCHY REMARK
They have a sixth sense for capturing all five senses. -
Review from geraldine g.
Toronto, ON
4/20/2012
There is a real air of pretentiousness to this place. I have no idea if it is because of where it is situated but the only things to save it from a three star (because I truly do not care how great a business is, customer service is key to me) was the friendly woman that took my order and the incredible cup of wonderful that I had the distinct pleasure of drinking.
Yeah, that's right! I really did not want to like it but I cannot very well argue with one of the tops in the cuppa Joe department I have had in Toronto.
Silky smooth americano, nice crema and an intoxicating aroma that did not let me down upon tasting.
Wow!
If you are a coffee connoisseur you have probably already gone here. If you haven't or want to become one, try this!
I plan on going back and buying some of their beans! -
Review from Van L.
Toronto, ON
3/15/2012
I thought I'd write up a quick review as I sip my Americano from Sense Appeal. I stopped in today for lunch for the first time. Their sandwich board outside always intrigued me, but I was a little turned off by the 'pretentious vibes' that others had warned about.
I was pleasantly surprised! It wasn't too busy when I arrived. The counter girl warmly greeted me and took my order promptly. I'm not sure if the menu changes daily but I opted for the Thai Beef Salad. It was great! Spicy, good flavour and perfectly proportioned for lunch. I took it to-go - there isn't much space or seating in the shop.
I'm not much of a coffee connoisseur, but I love the stuff to bits. At first I was unsure of the taste - it was quite rich and had somewhat of a molasses aftertaste. But the more I drank, the more delicious it became. I'm not a fan of Starbucks, so it's great to find a (close to work) independent coffee shop. I can't wait to try the Turkish Latté! -
Review from M S.
North York, ON
3/10/2012 2 photos
It is really hard to find independent coffee shops in uptown, so when I feel like I had enough of Starbucks, I head down to find coffee full of flavor. And I found Sense Appeal Coffee Roasters.
I ordered a cup of drip coffee, and a cup of americano:
- Americano: It was definitely fresh. full of coffee oil, and aromatic. But I feel like they can use less water to it, since it was little watery than usual americano.
- Drip coffee: It was flavorful. It had cleaness to it, and had acidity to its flavor. But I wasn't informed what blend the drip coffee was...
The place is really tiny. It has few tables in the lobby of the building, but during the busy hour, it should be hectic grabbing a table.
It's a nice place in general to grab a fresh, aromatic coffee. -
Review from Aliana I.
Toronto, ON
4/26/2012
The office fav. Doesn't hurt that it's at the ground floor of our office building either. Actually it does hurt in that an abundance of phenomenal lattes ultimately go straight to a girl's milkshake, making it less and less likely that the boys will come to her yard.
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Review from Maha K.
3/6/2012
I'm not entirely sure what the fuck Sense Appeal means. An appeal to the senses - maybe the nose, but not really common sense. I do know that it has mind-blowingly delicious coffee.
I take two stars off for the following reasons:
1. There is really no place to sit here. Not only is a bitch to find this place, but once you get in and get your coffee, trying to find a place to sit is like trying to clear out mass shrubbery in the depths of the lush, Cameroonian rain forest. I found a former tree trunk-turned-table sitting out in the busy lobby of the entire building. Not work-conducive. The wi-fi adds to the feel that you're sharing a dial-up connection with local villagers.
2. Let's just be honest - this place is super pretentious. It's like National Asshole Week here every week. I never thought I'd meet coffee conoisseurs that overshadow the egos of doctoral candidates.
But the coffee is well worth that mob forest battle.
I recommend you grab the pre-ground black bag of goods, drop the toonies on the counter, and run. -
Review from Rob C.
Moncton, NB
1/9/2012 18 Check-ins Here
Before I write this, I want you to know a little something about my tastes when it comes to Coffee. I will drink a Tim Horton's large black coffee if I'm in desperate need of caffeination. I won't enjoy it though. It's not Coffee.
At home I have 2 coffee machines, a Technivorm and a Rancilio Silvia espresso machine. I buy the finest beans available in my part of the world shipped in from exotic locales like Edmonton and the West Coast. The beans were lovingly grown by independent coffee producers before being flown to Canada for expert roasting and then shipped to my door on a FedEX truck for my consumption.
My carbon footprint for coffee is probably the reason we as a nation backed out of the Kyoto protocol.
I have two coffee grinders.
The beans I brewed from Sense Appeal were probably the finest, richest tasting beans I have ever put through my Rancilio Silvia. Rich and nutty, they brewed up with a deep red crema you could stand a spoon in. I believe I brought home their N bean.
I knew I was coming to Toronto this week and you know what I thought about the most? Not work. Not the excellent people I'd be spending time with. Not the delicious lunches and restaurants I'd be dining in. No, I thought about my morning coffee on Monday and how good it was going to be.
Double shot Americano. The C Nd I think? I don't know what those letters mean. Some master chemist assigned them to these beans somewhere in his secret lab under the city. It was delicious.
Can't wait for tomorrow morning.Listed in: Downtown Toronto
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Review from Bec R.
Scarborough, ON
2/11/2012
I'm giving these guys a 3.5 because by the time we got here we had already been to 3 other coffee houses and we couldn't try the normal coffee. We got a Turkish coffee which was nice.
I didn't like the way the two men talked to the female on the cash register in front of customers. It made me feel embarrassed for her that she would let men speak to her like that in this day an age.
The place was a bit weird but I would recommend going here to try it out. -
Review from M P.
Toronto, ON
1/18/2012
Picked up some coffee beans as Christmas gift and WOW!! They were great!!! Definitely coming back for more.....
The best part is when you buy coffee beans, you get a nice FREE coffee of your choice!! AWE-SOME!!!! -
Review from C Z.
Toronto, ON
5/5/2012
Worst muffin I've ever had in my life
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Review from Reynold P.
Toronto, ON
12/3/2011 1 Check-in Here
I can no longer call myself a coffee enthusiast. I drink a cup maybe once or twice a week. When I do, I'm sure to stray away from the SBucks and for a cup at a local vendor. Sense Appeal appealed to me because it was close to a client's workplace.
Thankfully, he had never gone although his work was only footsteps away. I was glad that I could expose him to better coffee and also treat myself to a new adventure as well. As usual, I ordered a latte. It was superb and just how a latte sound look and taste. Bold and rich with a nice micro foam on top. I drank that up pretty quickly although I was the one speaking the whole time. I guess it was good...
The location itself was pleasant too. Smaller than I originally thought. Literally just a counter for the coffee machine and cash but organized and neat. Tt's a great place for a meeting because they have a upstairs that is quite yet casual. It's open spaced and bright, so the paper work etc. was easily read.
Overall, the service was fast and friendly. Seating available was... well... available! and the coffee is as good as it can be. -
Review from Tara A.
11/29/2011
There are no shortage of options of coffee joints in the area in which I work (Spadina and Adelaide). There's Starbucks, Tim Hortons, The Roasterie., Le Gourmand.. and the list goes on and on. So, when Sense appeal opened it's doors, I was unimpressed... Unimpressed until they offered Coffee their first week of being open... That sparked some interest (who doesn't love free stuff?!). Figuring I had nothing to lose, I wandered over for an afternoon pick me up.
I automatically regretted my initial reaction when entering. The atmosphere is quaint but has lots of seating options, the sandwiches looked to die for (and after trying one recently.. I have to admit, pretty damn tasty). The guys (all very handsome) behind the counter can tell you exactly what farm (is it a farm for coffee beans.. it's gotta be right?) the beans come from and can tell you a bit about the farmer themselves. Very unique.
The coffee is as good as view behind the cash and the prices are more than fair for the product you receive. Even though they have been open for a little while now, they still have freebies every so often. again, who doesn't love getting things for free!
If I were writing an essay right now, I would sum it up with.. In retrospect, Sense appeal is an appealing place to grab a coffee or a sandwich because of the price, the location, the atmosphere and the knowledgeable staff. But I'm not writing an essay so I will just say this... of all the coffee joints in the city, this is one you will regret not visiting.Listed in: My 30 Day Challenge
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Review from Evelyn W.
11/3/2011 1 Check-in Here
Their lattes are amazing and strong.
But, like me, you might forget to order one once you get lost in their ever-changing sustainable and creative lunch menu.
Their sandwiches are fantastic, but I'd go for their daily specials. The other day I had a bison and onion soup with blue cheese croutons, a delicious twist on "the poutine of soups" AKA french onion.
It can get a little pricey, and I find the space a little cramped for dining in. But it is just so so so yummy.
Oh, and the guys there are Mo Bros. Happy Movember! -
Review from Johnathan N.
Brampton, ON
I said dayum. Toronto is not slouch when it comes to decent coffee joints, but Sense Appeal really rises above.
First things first: the coffee is fantastic. Custom roasts rotated regularly with their trademark periodic-table naming (T, O, Bh) have tasting notes called out on the menu that an actual human can actually taste. I scoffed (openly!) at "Strawberry Jam" in an Espresso tasting note. Strawberry jam. The first sip shut me right up. They know their stuff. Across the board, espresso, americano, latte, iced -- all excellent.
Did I tell you to stop reading? I ain't done by a damn sight, sit yourself back down.
Let's talk sandwiches. Every day, 3-6 different fresh sandwiches bursting with flavour. Capocolo with fresh mozzarella, baby spinach, and truffle oil. Warm chicken salad. Incredible. Their sandwich+americano combo ($10) is an incredible value given the caliber of the ingredients in each.
Now I *know* I didn't tell you to stand up.
In-house pasta specials made in front of your face. Great seating options on two floors (don't be fooled by the tiny space allotted to the actual bar, all the surrounding seating is theirs too), lots of light, and a modern, clean vibe. Not your typical coffee shop feel, but a really solid joint.
Pro-tip: follow @senseappeal on twitter, there are frequently daily specials (sometimes including free shots of a new roast they're trying out, or trying to close out).Listed in: Food near Mozilla Toronto
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Review from Edwin A.
10/12/2011 1 Check-in Here
Best tasting latte I've had in the city.
Today they whipped together a custom squash, dulce latte for me. Roasted perfect.
Seating is kind of weird? Multi-level cool but building is shared with an office, there are so many people coming in and out with the door, the slamming would make it a distracting place to get work done in this space. -
Review from Rachael T.
Toronto, ON
11/16/2011
The coffee is good here - it is silky smooth and has some unique flavours that cater to the season - like pumpkin spice latte (although so popular that it was out last time we went), and the sweetness of a dulce de leche latte, or even a turkish latte, which has grated cinnamon on top that just smells like delight.
Although no vanilla syrup for a london fog, the people are super nice and trying to make sure the drink you get will exceed your initial expectations.
the baked goods looked delicious too... like the berry scone I should've picked up instead of another muffin down the street.
As of October 31, however, the prices went up (indicated by the notice on their counter). I was quite sad because a latte is already 4.50 and it's not that big to begin with.
Maybe for special occasions, I will make my way into this cute shop... but unfortunately, it's not for everyday. -
Review from Shannon F.
Toronto, ON
9/23/2011
My new favourite morning coffee spot. The coffee - roasted themselves, constantly changing, environmentally sourced - is delicious!!! The food looks good although I haven't tried it. They are fast and friendly, the staff is fun, moves to the music that plays and generally seems to like their jobs.
Once in a while they are known to give free drinks for a day - my least favourite day as I'd rather pay for my coffee than wait for a line full of freebie hogs ordering 5 nonfat pumpkin spiced lattes for everyone in their office leaving me 30 min to get my morning coffee...but this place is so good I actually waited!!!
They take debit and credit, they sell the coffee they roast as well - they even provide descriptions so you know what kind of flavour you'll get from your brew. -
Review from Shiori M.
Ariss, ON
11/6/2011
I currently work in the offices above this coffee shop so I have visited on a couple of occasions. I'm not a big americano or espresso drinker so I can't comment on, but I have tried their lattes.
The latte was quick nice. Had a rich coffee flavour with just enough milk. I like the fact the smaller coffee shops will sub. soy milk without the extra cost like starbucks since I do prefer it to reg. milk.
The chai tea latte was kind of meh for me. It lacked the spicy flavour that I look for in a good chai and the fact it was luke warm when I got it also was disappointing.
TIP: Awesome lunch here! They have their reg. menu but the specials are what I like to try. Very unique offerings from the usual lunch spots and they use local ingredients which im always a supporter for. It's a bit pricer (avg. $11) but delicious if you ask me. -
Review from Nicole H.
Toronto, ON
10/9/2011 4 Check-ins Here
Sense Appeal does a cracking good job at serving up damned good espresso-based drinks. I've tried hot & iced lattes and each have been delicious; there's also this killer choc-mint iced latte drink which is insanely delicious! Soy and almond milk are available, and it's nice to have the options! Many of their espresso-based drinks have choices between a few types of beans, which is awesome. I believe there are also french presses available (although it is marked "seasonal"), as well as tea and a few other refreshing non-coffee beverages.
There's light snacks (pastries, mostly) and sandwiches available, but nothing that I can partake of, being vegan. But i'm honestly not in the market for food when making a stop at Sense Appeal - it's all about the delicious, delicious coffee.
I love the look of the main part of the cafe - wooden counters and benches, and sacks of in-house roasted coffee stacked about the place. I think this might also be the only indie coffee shop in Toronto i've been to that means SO MUCH business that they have two espresso machines on the go. That is off the chain, my friends.
You have to head out of the main part of the cafe to find the little bit of seating which is sort of tucked into the building's entryway & a little more up the stairs near the elevators. It sounds odd and awkward, and you'll really only understand when you're standing there looking at it.
Overall the sense I get is AMAAAZING, and I just wish this place was closer to me so I could have this great espresso on tap. Minus a star really only because of the weird seating setup and the lack of vegan treats (at least the times i've been there, there's not been anything obvious!). More like only half a star though. Ugh, Sense Appeal! You're so great! -
Review from jocelyn l.
6/30/2011
i'm SO glad someone told me about Sense and i don't have to walk all the way to the bland Starbucks. My new office is 5 min walk away and we've been looking for a cafe closer...phew!
this place is contemporary, great service and tasty coffee, maybe a little too strong for my body...coz i swear i was jumpy all day. but in a good way
a tad more expensive than ur usual cup of coffee, but i'd rather plonk money here than the other places anydayListed in: Faves in TO
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Review from Alicia T.
Toronto, ON
10/22/2011 1 Check-in Here
My pumpkin spice latte wasn't hot enough and wasn't great at all. I was bummed; however, my friend Kim's latte was great so I think I just drew the short straw. I've heart only good things about this place and would give it another shot.
I should have said something about my crappy latte but I left and threw it out like a good Canadian. Lol. -
Review from Kat T.
3/26/2011 ROTD 1/27/2012
Sense Appeal coffee roasters has a generic sounding name. And a typeface suggesting American Apparel style- that is to say, "We are casual, local, and deal direct with our suppliers- also trendy?"
But, being a cafe-ficiando, anything with roasters in the name gets a visit from me. Ample seating now in the top level lobby of the office building. I ordered the Americano because that brew allows a choice of 4 different beans now. V is pineapple and bitter notes. I loved it. Beans come from all over, but are roasted here, I believe. House made treats are appealing, but I didn't try anything this time. A good work environment, for all those who feel crowded out of the Black Stallion up the street. -
Review from Jennifer K.
Markham, ON
4/6/2011 5 photos
As usual, I walked right passed Sense Appeal Coffee Roasters... before I realized my mistake... The entrance is like a business building lobby... yes it is really a business building lobby with bicycle couriers constantly walking in and out!!
The interior of Sense Appeal Coffee Roasters is a big contrast to the building itself.. as it is really rustic with mosaic flooring showing extreme wear and tear, wooden bar counter that has 6 seatings, high ceiling...
I settled for an Americano ($2.25) with the AS roast.. which is their strong nutter roast that they used for all the other espresso beverages.. There are in fact 4 different type of roasts, some more fruity and some nutty..
For the to stay version, my Americano was dark, smooth and with bold full bodied flavour, served in the proper mug... just chill.......and enjoy the moment!
There are more seating in the lobby side, but it is not as good an atmosphere as hanging out in the main area and watch the baristas at work! Trust me, they really know what they are doing!
And I will definitely be BACK!! -
Review from Tanya N.
4/21/2011
Love the look of this place - high ceilings, exposed brick, distressed wooden shelves & bar counter by the window. They actually have two espresso machines so two baristas can work back to back on the drinks. It's pretty awesome being able to see them at work. The guys are laid back, have that hipster look and no attitude.
I had their latte which was great. The milk was velvety, a nice layer of micro foam though I thought it was a bit too much.
There's limited seating in the actual cafe but there are a couple of tables in the foyer just outside.Listed in: For the Love of Lattes
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Review from Vivek S.
12/29/2010 3 Check-ins Here
Wowie, what a beautiful little alcove on Spads. Tucked into the base of an office building, if it weren't for the mega-high ceiling you'd immediately notice how small it is. The espresso bar and cash counter are one and the same, and there is another small counter with pastry and other such treats. As for seating, there are only four high stools against a window-facing counter made of reclaimed wood. I hear more seating is in the works; we shall see.
The coffee is off the hook. You get to pick from three different bean types, and curt descriptions of the flavours are included on the menu. You can choose your espresso fruity and aromatic or rich and nutty. The folks at the counter (the owners) are super amiable, and clearly know their product well. You can't get every type of drink with every kind of bean, which makes perfect sense. And every time I've been in here, they have followed up about my drink. I like that, ERGO, I like Sense Appeal.
Obligatory Title Pun: It only makes SENSE.
Menu Readability: I love their omnipresent typeface. It's halfway between Futura and a heavier Franklin Gothic.
Need to mention: Free wifi! Just ask for the password.
What this place teaches me about myself: I loves me a good typeface.Listed in: Top Coffee Shops
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Review from Kieran S.
Toronto, ON
2/2/2011
Sense Appeal offers different espresso drinks (americanos, lattes, machiatos) along with french press coffee. They also serve bake goods many (all?) of which are baked in house.
The espresso is if not the best, close to the best I've had. There's is a thick layer of crema that tops each espresso that comes out. I've tried their two espresso blends, and both were fantastic. The barista gives an extensive description of each shot to help the undecided.
The people who work at Sense Appeal are great. They're knowledgeable and really friendly.
I also bought a a bag of beans while I was there. The bag came with a free coffee. The bag was $9 for half a pound which is expensive but not that different from other coffee shops that sell their own beans (more expensive than Ideal, but less expensive than Green Beanery). More importantly, when I made espressos with the beans from Sense Appeal, the final product was perfect... not as good as the shots they pull in house, but still excellent. -
Review from Christian D.
2/3/2011
Best americano you can get. And 3 bean choices! (straight up luxury)
I usually opt to make coffee at home, because I drink it for the taste, not the buzz, and no establishment with some fancy automatic machine can come close to my careful hand and accurate internal timer. Except Sense Appeal.
I wish their location was a little bigger, but all in good time. -
Review from Judy M.
Toronto, ON
Updated - 11/12/2011
Ok, I am usually here before or after lunch so often I miss out. Did have the bison/onion soup this week and it is was amazing. As each menu lasts for a week, I have now learned to ask them to keep an order for me to pick up later in the day.
Can't wait to try the eggnog coffee drink.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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10/19/2011
Thank you Yelp for this great find. Can't believe I didn't review this yet.
Pros:
Consistently… Read more »
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Review from Ashleigh G.
Toronto, ON
12/4/2010
I'd been hearing rumors about a great new coffee place near my office, but hadn't made the time to check it out yet. This week, I finally made my way to Sense Appeal - and I'm kicking myself for not venturing over sooner.
The space is gorgeous - very modern with high ceilings - but very small (best for take out). They have several kinds of espresso beans and I asked for a suggestion - the barista was so friendly and had asked me a lot of questions before making his selection for me - What kind of day was I having? Did I want a heartwarming coffee, or something energetic?
He picked the perfect mix, made it quickly, and it was absolutely perfect. One coffee in and I've decided it's among the best in Toronto. -
Review from Julia L.
Toronto, ON
5/21/2011
Really, really good coffee + non-pretentious hipster baristas = recipe for success
Although, I do wish that this place was a little bigger so that you might actually be able to sit and enjoy your beverage while reading the newspaper, or something. It was pretty crowded when I was there. Agoraphobics, be warned! -
Review from Bartek C.
York, ON
3/19/2011
These guys (and gals!) are doing absolutely everything right.
As per most people, my experience from a coffee shop includes a few major factors: The coffee first and foremost, the staff, and the atmosphere.
The coffee. Oh, the coffee.You will not find a better Americano in this city, and with a variety of roasts available each week, it's easy to find a favourite or keep trying new ones. At first, I was skeptical that the Americano labelled with flavours of Chocolate and Almond would be any different than the one labelled as Fruity with some zest, but that skepticism ended quickly. Each roast is a subtle but wonderful mixture of flavours and I'm sure you'll find your favourite after a few visits (Personally, the Americano AS is my new bliss.).
The staff? Bustling, welcoming, and always feeling good. They greet you warmly, and always look happy to serve you. This is something I think a few coffee shops in the city (Dark Horse I'm looking at you..) seem to miss. First impressions matter, and Sense Appeal does it right
Finally, the atmosphere. The shop is tucked away in a building full of many other offices. It's small, but cozy with an awesome hard wood, rustic vibe to it. I'm no designer, but I like it. It always feel busy and there's always some great tunes playing. Sitting down within the bustle can be enjoyable, but there's seats within the building that you can grab as well. The staff do Espresso samplings from time to time as well, so if you're an espresso nut, that's a good experience to share.
Once again, Sense Appeal is doing everything right. You won't be disappointed coming here, and the prices won't hurt your budget much either. Their Facebook page is also full of great videos, commentary, and the occasional special (Like them for free coffee all day, or other goodies!). Go here and keep coming back. -
Review from Elvis A.
4/14/2011 2 photos
I ordered the cappuccino and my friend had a Turkish Latte. I think the cappuccino was ok (the espresso shot had a burnt bean smell) which could be good or bad depending on your taste. I am not a latte drinker but did try a sip of the Turkish Latte (I think its more of novelty item) the friend who is a regular Latte drinker commented that is is somewhat weak in taste. Had the Biscotti as well which was nice and thick. Other desserts looked tempting maybe I will try em again if I revisit.
I would give 3 star overall.
The Search for an excellent coffee place continues in Toronto. -
Review from K E.
Oakville, ON
12/17/2010
Probably the second best coffee shop in the area. Definitely worth returning.
Most coffees have one of 3 kinds of bean which are marked based on where they came from (K, Bh, Oa). Staff were friendly and take the time to explain it all.
Reasonably priced, and tastes good. With places like this in the area, I don't know why anyone goes to Starbucks.
Even if you know where it is, you might miss it. That adds to its "hole-in-the-wall" charm. -
Review from Mel L.
5/1/2011
As far as coffee shops go, this was the one I enjoyed the most. It's not for someone who wants to sit around in a comfy chair relaxing, studying, or chatting with friends. It's for someone who wants a good coffee that tastes the way real fresh roasted beans are supposed to taste. They have a variety of beans with different characteristics, and can make drinks exactly to your order.
The large menu above the bar shows clearly the different types of espresso beans you can order and describes each of their characteristics. When asked, the barista took the time to further explain the different types of beans and what the letters next to each meant. When I asked him to then explain every drink on the menu (Some Mexican drink for hot days - forgot the name, Turkish latte, Dulce de leche, cioccolato caldo) he smiled and obliged without making me feel like I was bothering him.
My espresso ($2.25) was done perfectly with lots of crema. I also saw the barista pour a latte with a gorgeous double heart on it.
Limited seating in the cafe but there are a few tables just outside in the building lobby.
Coffee-wise, I preferred Sense Appeal over Dark Horse, but if you're looking for a place to sit or a table to put your drink on, Dark Horse a block and a half up the street is the safe bet. -
Review from Mark R.
Toronto, ON
3/22/2011 1 photo
Stumbled upon Sense Appeal Coffee this morning and I'm enjoying (and wishing I bought a larger cup) of coffee. Very tasty - really blows away what the big chains are peddling as 'coffee'. It's a bit more of a walk for me but one that I'll be happy to make going forward.
Thanks for a nice start to the day Sense Appeal! -
Review from KL M.
Toronto, ON
11/20/2011
I've only been here once and my only complaint is that I wish it had more seating. It's hard to find a place that has something a little different and the Turkish latte is not something I have come across at other coffee shops in the city. I will be back!
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Review from Angela L.
5/20/2011
Coming to Toronto from the Pacific Northwest (something of a coffee mecca), and with limited time in the city, I scoured Yelp to find a coffee shop that would match the quality of some of the best in the west. I settled on Sense Appeal, and was not let down.
The shop itself is small and not conducive for lingering, but the coffee (and friendly service) more than makes up for it. The strongest selling point of Sense Appeal, for me, was the fabulous menu featuring all of the standards along with some less traditional beverages. Unfortunately, tight seating and a steady flow of foot traffic meant that getting my beverage to stay was not appealing, so I settled for an Americano to go. I've been a dark roast girl for the past little while, but the warm weather and a desire for change led me to choose the "A1" over the "L" (a choice of beans - how exciting!), which I would have chosen under different circumstances. The final product was perfectly extracted and served without an excessive quantity of water. Deliciously smooth, bright, and with the notes of citrus that the menu promised, this coffee was definitely up there with one of the best I've had ever had. -
Review from Carlos P.
Verdun, QC
8/13/2011 1 Check-in Here
I'm not a coffee connoisseur but my GF is and she always brings back Blue Bottle Coffee from San Francisco which is considered the best and I've grown to really like it. That said I haven't found a place that comes even close to Blue Bottle with the exception of Sense Appeal.
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Review from Donna T.
Toronto, ON
7/15/2011
When I am in the neighbourhood, I like to stop by to pick up a cup of coffee to go. The guys there are educating me on the different beans - and what flavours should come through.
I do find myself pausing to actually taste, savour and enjoy the cup of coffee.
It's been months since I first went in and I can't remember what I had but I do remember this:
1. It was a really goooood cup of coffee
2. The guys whom I chatted with (the managers?) were friendly.
Is there place to sit and sip while reading my textbook? Is there a ladies room? I don't know and that is why I am only giving it 4 out of 5 stars. -
Review from Jeremiah M.
Toronto, ON
3/27/2011
Ever since I travelled to Australia I've been a bit of a coffee snob. And let me tell you, these guys nail it. The cappuccino is exceptional. The only thing I don't like about this place is that they're isn't more locations around the city.
