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Tango Palace Coffee Company
Categories: Food Coffee & Tea Restaurants Sandwiches Coffee & Tea, Sandwiches [Edit]
1156 Queen St EToronto, ON M4M 1L2
Neighbourhood: Leslieville
(416) 465-8085
- Hours:
Mon-Sun 6:30 am - 11 pm
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Price Range:
-
$
- Takes Reservations:
- No
- Delivery:
- No
- Take Away:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- No
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
- Alcohol:
- No
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Has TV:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
31 reviews for Tango Palace Coffee Company
Review Highlights
"There are a lot of baked goods availabe."
(in 8 reviews)
"...close quarters inside and ample seating on the back patio."
(in 4 reviews)
"...cozy, intimate space with dim lighting and eclectic artwork..."
(in 3 reviews)
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31 reviews in English
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Review from Paul R.
Toronto, ON
10/8/2011
You might not give this place a second thought to walk by it, but that would be a mistake.
There are many coffee shops in this neighbourhood but none will make you feel as at home and just downright comfortable as Tango. -
Review from Edwin A.
1/25/2012 1 photo
Stepping in, you're greeted to a nicely dim lit room of wood tables and chairs. Popular place that night, and I felt great social atmosphere at this cafe.
The carmeletta, a vanilla & caramel latte we ordered was a little too sweet to my liking. The main reason for coming here wasn't for the coffee..
I came here mainly to eat me some cookies. nom nom nom
The barista probably thought we were nuts because after ordering the latte we proceeded to order 3 large gourmet cookies. "I'll get this one and that one and whats that one.. oh ok sounds good.. Well get one of those"
So here we go.. My critique on the cookies
Peanut Butter cCokie -- not very sweet. it has a hint of peanut . there aren't any actual whole peanuts or chopped peanuts inside. guessing it gets it's taste from natural unsweetened peanut butter source, then sweetened with brown sugar. It's a large gourmet cookie about the size of your hand. I find Kraft's peanut butter cookie recipe, the one that can be found at the back of the jar label yields better tasting cookies IMHO.
Next cookie, the Almond Biscotti. This was decent. Hard and meant for drink dipping. There were chopped almonds in it. It's pretty hard to gnaw on. You'll need iron teeth to eat this thing raw. It makes a huge mess and would meet Cookie Monster approval.. Nom nom.. :)
Last cookie, the Oatmeal Raisin. Just forgettable.. that's what you are. Taste like something I would get from the grocery but soft gourmet type. I can make one better at home.
To sum up I wasn't wowed by the cookies or drink here. You can find better value elsewhere.
However though, the atmosphere is fabulous.. I felt great social energy here. People conversing in groups or in two. Not just acting like a slaves to their notebooks.
It would be a good place to meetup in the neighborhood it has character. -
Review from Chris P.
Lately I've found myself frequenting Leslievillle as I have started training at Eros Fitness which is located in the Queen/Leslie area. I'd heard about TP many times and finally decided the day had come to check it out.
My first impression on walking in was wow this place is crowded, however not crowded with people, crowded with furniture. There is very little walking space around all the tables or even around the counter. It was also slightly unclear as to where to order so I stood by the cash register and eventually the barista came over to me,
What I liked the most was that there was a big selection of teas to choose from. I find that most coffee shops/cafes will always have an extensive coffee menu but will be lacking in teas. Not so for TP!! I went with a blac chai and it was strong and smokey which is just the way I like it, not super overly spicy like some chai teas can be. The cup sizes are all huge, what they call a medium is very hefty.
TP is a bit overwhelming to the senses as there is just so much stuff crammed in there. The display case is rammed full of some delectable looking squares and other pastries (the size of the date square makes it look like it could be spilt into 3 meals) the counter is stuffed with small glass displays filled with muffins and the like, behind the counter is crammed with a mammoth espresso maker and bins of teas and the the entire seating area is filled to the brim with tablesand chairs. It all makes either manuvering around in here and sitting in here a tad uncomfortable, however cozy at the same time. -
Review from Vivek S.
12/24/2011 1 Check-in Here
For my liking Tango Palace is rather unpalatial. It's diminutive and dark with a palette of dark wood and burgundy. The decor has a hint of antique to it, and there are a few cozy armchairs and couches amidst a serious amount of tables.
On my visit I enjoyed a just OK brewed coffee. I was happy with the portion size (a medium is quite huge) but it wasn't terrific and a little weak. There is definitely a lot of pastry on offer; I spotted cakes, pies, butter tarts, cookies, and pre-made sandwiches. They also have a wide assortment of teas and espresso.
The tight layout makes it unlikely I would spend long swaths of time here, but I might stop by again for a coffee to go.
Obligatory Title Pun: It takes TWO to TANGO.
Menu Readability: Chalkboard sign.
Need to mention: They have free Wi-Fi.
What this place teaches me about myself: I'm rather particular about the use of the term "palace." -
Review from Eric L.
9/20/2011 1 Check-in Here
Not a bad place to have a coffee, chat with a friend, or get some work done. They have a great selection of coffees, teas, espressos, and according to the barista, over 60 different deserts.
I came here looking for a quiet place to integrate some polynomials. Even though the music was a little loud, I quickly fell into a comfortable zone, with low lighting and energetic music. I'll keep this on my to go list for future work studies.
This ain't a 5 star place in my opinion because the music was kind of loud (apparently it's always loud) for such a chill ambiance, and the chairs and tables are way too small and low, like child's play set. Nevertheless, I will be back. -
Review from Faye C.
10/13/2011
Two words: Carmilla Latte
I love that Tango Palace is right beside a park, I sometimes stop here when I'm walking my dogs, or on the way to Timmie's (the dog store). They make this delicious caramel and vanilla blended latte - yummy. They also have soy. They also have great cookies and stuff.
PS - I love the vintage-y feel -
Review from Yvonne T.
8/26/2011 4 Check-ins Here
I only have praises for Tango Palace Coffee Company. There was not one thing that was not to my liking.
From the funny barista to the homey decor to the coffee and finally their selection of sweets....
It really is a neighbourhood coffee joint in that the barista knows the regulars and they carry on a conversation as if they have been friends for a very long time. The outside has a rather rustic bistro look to it that reminds you of Paris or New York City in the movies. The furniture is antique wood, the remnants of an antique shop that used to share the space that is now solely occupied by Tango Palace Coffee Company.
In addition to the normal coffee bar offerings (coffee, lattes, cappuccinos), they have a vast array of biscottis, tarts, cakes, and cookies to go with. The "Hammer Head" caught my eye. Upon inquiring, I learned that it is made with 2 shots of espresso and a bold coffee... Where was this place in my University days where all-nighters were all the rage?! The barista had me at 2 shots of espresso. I also ordered a peanut butter cookie to go with my stronger-than-Arnold java - and I did not regret it. I have always drank strong coffees, and this really "hit the nail on the head" with its intense, dark roasted flavour. I take my coffee black, and so the peanut butter cookie was the perfect accompaniment for my coffee. I think I'm in love?
I could see myself coming here to sip on a cup of coffee while reading a book, or sipping a cup of coffee as I blog. I will definitely be back! -
Review from Aaron C.
Victoria, BC
7/6/2011
There are a few things that are hard not to love about Tango Palace.
First of all, the quirky and cozy interior is great and is probably one of the tops in the neighborhood; I often easily get lost in a good book in one of their window seats.
Secondly, having an indie coffee place open past 8pm 7 days a week is a rarity in Toronto it seems. I love that I can get my late night fix at Tango until 11pm. Coming from Vancouver, I was spoiled with Calhouns near UBC, so I often lamented about the lack of similar places in Toronto. While not 24hrs, Tango Palace definitely fills the void nicely.
Third, they have a great selection of baked goods and other food items (I haven't tried their sandwiches, but I've heard they are delicious). The counter is overrun with delicious options; there is definitely something for everyone.
I'd say the only knock is that their espresso doesn't quite stack up with the other heavyweights in the neighborhood. However, with the great atmosphere, hours and friendly staff, Tango Palace carves itself a nice niche in a neighborhood saturated with cafes. -
Review from Anne M.
5/18/2011
This place is the type of neighbourhood coffee shop that feels like a neighbourhood in and of itself. It seems that everyone who comes in here is a regular and a local. This morning it was filled with retiree coffee groups, grandparents and grandkids, firefighters, and students (like me!). On the weekend it's families and people shopping along Queen E.
This coffee shop alone is enough reason to come to Leslieville... Oh, the coffee and comfort food is pretty good too! -
Review from Tina H.
12/16/2010
This place is so cute! I live downtown but there in the "outskirts" of Leslieville there is a quaint little coffee shop with the utmost homey feel. The dim lighting, the grandma's dining room chairs, the dusty pink paint on the walls, the stained glass windows and chandeliers... It's romantic almost. I usually find grandma style decor tacky and outdated but it felt cozy. I love the ambiance and the exposed brick. The painted metal ceiling is pretty cool too. The only thing taking away from the decor is the fluorescent lit cooler of baked goods. Luckily it's at the end of the shop close to the "garden" (wtf?)
They have a house blend espresso. They also seem to sell beans so maybe they roast too? (or get stuff roasted at least). Their Elektra espresso machine looks pretty sci-fi, like a giant bullet from the Golden Gun meets R2D2, crowned with a bald eagle. The barista guy seemed to really know how to prepare espresso and he wasn't happy with the first pour so he re-did it. I didn't even say anything, it was all him. I appreciate details like that. He is very chipper and friendly and appears to love his job and people. I love people like that. He helps add to the warm, homey feel of the place.
The espresso was quite delicious... No complaints at all. Yum. Thinking about it now. The chocolate chip cookie was not as good as he said it was. Kind of oversized and floury tasting but still pretty decent. Tasted very homemade, but baked by someone who didn't really know how to bake yet.
Not sure what the deal is with the 2-star review unsatisfied with the cappuccino. If you don't like the foam of a proper cappuccino then don't order a cappuccino! If you want a small latte order a short latte. Or maybe it's called a macchiatto. I'm assuming the dissatisfaction comes from not knowing how to order. The espresso is a good base and I'm going to assume it'll make a good latte/macchiatto/cappuccino/whatevs.
Even though the cookie wasn't stellar, it was pretty decent and maybe takes 0.5 of a star away... The way I felt in the shop made me all warm and fuzzy for some reason so this place gets 5-stars.
I'm never in the area but when I am I'll be coming back! Might have to make the Burger's Priest + Tango Palace combo a regular venture to the east side of town. -
Review from Paola B.
Markham, ON
3/30/2011
LOVE LOVE LOVE it !!!
When I imagine what a traditional cafe should look like, Tango Palace is it! I wish more places were able to reproduce this type of charm. Very relaxing and casual atmosphere. Perfect for reading a book, using your laptop, or enjoying with friends. They have all sorts of treats both sweet and savoury, and their coffee is great. I hope they never sell out! -
Review from Jennifer K.
Markham, ON
I wish there are more charming and individual coffee places like Tango Palace Coffee Company near where I live or work!!
I really love the dark and cozy interior.. and the little worn and comfy airmchairs.
What's better than hanging out with friends and talk nonsense over a cup of coffee??
What's better than to bring my laptop and utilize the free WIFI over a cup of coffee??
I am no coffee guru..but what they serve here taste all right for me and love drinking my coffee from a big thick mug! -
Review from WaYnE c.
Maple, ON
9/13/2010 3 photos
Last of the "Kat F - Miss U Crawl" is Tango Palace Coffee. I will have to agree with Kat herself as this place has some comfy chairs even at the expense of being very tightly packed together but if you're LUCKY enough to get an Armchair then by all means enjoy the rest of your day while reading/wi-fi-ing/laptoping/sleeping as we were still here around 9 pm.
0.5 *Star* is for their hours of operations, another 0.5 *Star* for the comfortable setting that is comparable(?) to Williams Coffee Pub where I did most of my reading/studying in University. As for the Cafe Au Lait, it was enjoyable therefore A-OK as my rating. The solo server at the counter was very pleasant and even generous as he served a couple of our finest EMS officers in need of some pick-me-up(+0.5 *Stars*).Listed in: Coffee Drinks
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Review from Lisa K.
Toronto, ON
9/1/2010
I love this place. It's a cozy, intimate space with dim lighting and eclectic artwork on the walls. There are a lot of tables in close quarters inside and ample seating on the back patio.
My favourites:
-cappuccino
-chai latte (both hot and iced, both with dairy milk and soymilk - yum)
-steamed milk (I know, not really worth going to a cafe, but sometimes it's just what you need on a chilly day)
-homemade lemonade
-homemade iced tea
-tandoori chicken sandwich (these are not made on site - they order it from somewhere else, and they come prepackaged but I like them anyway)
I will agree with a previous yelper that the nighttime staff is a little more approachable and friendly than the daytime staff, but they all know how to make the hell out of a cappuccino. And really, this is the most important thing, isn't it?
All in all, this is a lovely place to relax, read quietly, write your essay/thesis and/or have a meeting/date. -
Review from Tara Z.
6/15/2011
Major points for the flirty baristo! I ordered a tea, which kept me warm on my cold walk to the next bar. This place was a pleasant, friendly stop on a drunken bar crawl, and I know that's not really enough to warrant rating it so highly, but I came out with a brownie, too, and that made me happy.
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Review from Kat F.
Still a solid place to get work done and the only place in the area that's open till 11pm. Armchairs are cozy and the wi-fi is reliable, even when every single person in the cafe has a laptop in tow.
The shitty, sticky front door has been replaced (I was there the day that it literally shattered when someone slammed it too hard) and weatherproofing installed so the drafty front area is no longer a problem.
I don't like the hot chocolate (it tastes soapy), sandwiches (bland) or any of their baked goods (the fact that the tins are all full at 10pm nightly gives you pause) so I usually stick to straight up tea or pop and the occasional biscotti. But seriously - come here to get work done: you'll find SOMETHING to drink/eat.Listed in: The Best Places To Eat, Shop &…, Reliable Wi-Fi In Toronto, Cafés That Actually Have…
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/2/2009
I think I've found my new favourite place to work! From the outside, Tango Palace looks like it… Read more »
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Review from sarah l.
9/8/2009
I do not like this place and I do not understand the rave reviews. The main reason for my displeasure is that the guy who makes the coffee seems to hate me. He radiates dissatisfaction when he sees me (which has happened all of two times).
The good:
- It's near the 7-11 where I use the bank machine
- It's always open
- There are a lot of baked goods availabe
The bad:
- The guy hates me (see above)
- I don't like their coffee
- They make a very traditional cappuccino with a LOT of foam... this might not be bad to you if you are a purist, but I am not. I really just want a small latte, and most places call that cappuccino.
- The apple cinnamon muffin I had last week wasn't great, but it LOOKED like it was going to be... so I was extra disappointed.
The weird-and-not-cool:
The door is really hard to open, and it opens awkwardly into the place. I always end up crashing into the room like a drunk elephant. Maybe that's why the guy gives off such bad juju when he sees me. Meh.
Will I go here again?
Not if I can avoid it. I would go to Red Rocket next time. I would have this time too if I had had more time.Listed in: My Favorite of My Reviews…, Coffee in…
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Review from Shari M.
Toronto, ON
10/10/2009 1 Check-in Here
I heart Tango Palace.
I decided to have a lazy Saturday and go explore a bit n Leslieville. After reading some great reviews of this spot I decided to check it out.
The interior is great. Very cozy and comfortable. I am really looking forward to coming here in the winter and having a cup of hot chocolate!
The staff are friendly. They have this great beautiful coffee bah-rew-in ma-chine. I was mesmerized by it.
Points for having cafe au lait. A lot of places don't carry this bowl of beauty. Tango's was pretty good...but a bit on the weak side. For a morning ease into the day cafe - it is perfect.
I also indulged in a chocolate chunk shortbread cookie. Was very good. Not as good as my mom makes...but a pretty decent shortbread.
This place would be great for a first date.Listed in: Give me my f*$%ing coffee!
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Review from Eleanor V.
North York, ON
4/9/2011
This place was open past 8pm on a Saturday night. Drove here to grab some coffee. I must say I haven't seen an espresso machine so artful. The barista was very fond of making his drinks top notch and it was definitely top notch. If you are ever in this neighbourhood. Its a must stop for some java and wifi.
Listed in: Java Places
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Review from Connie T.
Toronto, ON
11/10/2008
This place is dark, cramped, and feels like a piano bar from the 1930s. It's not what I typically imagine for the interior of a Leslieville café, but it absolutely hits the spot on those blustery cold days, when all you need is to cuddle in darkness and consume the largest book you can find. Yes, the service has always been good, and drinks just as fine, but it's the dimly lit atmosphere that sells it.
Because of that, I don't really come here over the summer months; it makes me feel like I'm missing out on the good weather, despite a hidden patio in the back for committed regulars.
That said, I can't wait for it to get more miserable outside. -
Review from Plank D.
Scarborough, ON
4/12/2009 1 photo
One of the best places in the city to go and enjoy a coffee.
Thy make a great espresso and cappuccino and for those with sweet teeth, they have no shortage of desert options.
The coffee is good but the ambiance is even better. Small tables and chairs with a few upholstered chairs in the window. This is literally where you go with a book and just turn off for a few minutes.
In the summer, they have Muskoka chairs out front so you can chill out and watch the street go by. -
Review from Miguel C.
Toronto, ON
5/4/2010
Great place, my favourite coffee house.
Tons of great deserts, love the cookies.
Plenty of seating instead and more in the back patio.
Open late everyday, till 11pm.
Free internet.
People are respectful, and not too loud. Starbucks closer to my home in the beaches is always full of people doing business and being loud, -
Review from Melissa G.
North York, ON
3/17/2009
As much as my coffee intake is mainly from the mainstream places (only because they seem to be at every corner), I am a huge sucker for interesting coffee houses.
One of them which truly stands out in my mind in terms of originality and a good knowledge of their coffee is Tango Palace Coffee Company.
When I venture over to the Leslieville area, I try to stop into Tango to have one of their foamy lattes or indulge in one of their fresh baked goods.
As I eat and drink, I sit in one of their many cushioned chairs and just relax - unlike the mainstream coffee places which are always packed to the point where you can't grab a seat and you just feel rushed.
And as an extra treat in the summer, Tango has a huge back patio for people to enjoy the lovely weather and beautiful sunshine. -
Review from Tatiana S.
Toronto, ON
2/6/2011
I love love love this coffee shop and before I moved a walking distance away from it, I used to take advantage of every down town visit just so I could grab a cappuccino or a latte. In 4 years I am yet to find a seat in that place and I don't blame others for not wanting to leave: you've got your coffee, an ocean of delicious desserts and sandwiches and internet hotspot. The staff are super friendly and very knowledgeable of best destinations in the area. Hours of operation are same as Starbucks; however, Starbucks can't compete with their coffee. If you want a good Americano, go there and if you're looking to raise the bar of indulgence for that day, drop by Leonida's Chocolate right around the corner and enjoy a few fine Belgian chocolates with your coffee. Your day will suddenly seem nicer =)
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Review from Miriam W.
9/17/2009
The offering of raspberry iced tea with or WITHOUT sugar was the first thing about Tango Palace to charm me and their stable, free wifi and cozy furniture kept me smitten.
Listed in: Free wifi in Toronto, Exploring Toronto's…
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Review from Meaghan D.
Ottawa, ON
7/17/2010
I love Tango Palace - I go there to do homework, read, you name it.
Decent coffee, decent food, comfy chairs.
I really do like this place a lot, but today's visit was just annoying.
The guy working the counter was beyond annoying. He was likely just trying to be friendly and quirky but seriously, when I can't even hear myself think because you're jokingly yelling at some dude to "get out of my cafe!", it's time to STFU. I contemplated leaving many times because I couldn't concentrate on my work at all with his yammering.
Oh, and loudly telling your coworker about how you covered for someone else last night because they had a date and you think he got laid, you hope he got laid, you're so proud of him, while you're within earshot of small children - far from cool. The mother did not look pleased.
I will keep going back to Tango Palace, but I really hope I don't have to see this dude again or I'll likely just grab my coffee and go. -
Review from Tiffany G.
Toronto, ON
12/14/2008
This is my favourite coffee house in Leslieville to go to when I am in the mood to read a book, do my homework, or chat with a friend while sitting in a cozy corner under dim lighting for hours with a large mug of Earle Grey tea and a delcious dark chocolate biscotti. The biscotti goes best with an Americano. It offers a very warm atmosphere and is a perfect place to hang out in the winter. Just have two dislikes: they seem to always have top 40 radio selection on instead of some laid back tunes that would go better with the vibe and their cake slices are $7 each!. Bonus: Free Wireless Internet
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Review from eune y.
Toronto, ON
4/12/2009
Great place to warm yourself from a grey, cold day with a great cup of joe and something buttery and sweet. They serve the Kicking Horse Coffee brand (I drink so much of the 'Kick Ass' blend, I'm pretty sure I'm 2/3rds 'kick ass' and 1/3 blood, guts and spit.) Everything about this place is welcoming and comfortable and that includes the sweet baristas behind the counter. If it was just a little closer to my house I'd be here every day sittin' by the window, eating baked goods and spacin' out.
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Review from Stephen B.
Toronto, ON
7/30/2009 8 Check-ins Here
Relaxed place. Good coffee and baked goods. Small but nice patio out back too.
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Review from Nolin L.
Toronto, ON
2/9/2009 1 Check-in Here
our favorite way to kill a Saturday morning is to plant ourselves in the comfy lounge chairs at Tango Palace, sip giant mugs of coffee/tea, share a few incredibly addictive fresh pastries, and read the paper. Two hours has never passed so quickly.
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Review from Kit C.
Toronto, ON
4/22/2010
Still the most inviting cafe in Leslieville. My brain works particularly well here, and I guess I owe the proprietors thanks for all the creative work the environment has allowed me to do.
