The Big Guy's Coffee Shop

3.5 star rating
8 reviews Rating Details

Category: Coffee & Tea  [Edit]

1718 Queen St W
Toronto, ON M6R 1B2
Neighbourhoods: Parkdale, Roncesvalles
(416) 389-1161
Price Range:
$
Accepts Credit Cards:
Yes
Outdoor Seating:
No
Wi-Fi:
Free
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8 reviews in English

  • Review from Simone M.

    • 0 friends
    • 8 reviews

    Cambridge, MA

    USA
    4.0 star rating
    4/5/2012

    I love the atmosphere of this place. It's as unpretentious and laid back as it gets. The owner is usually there and he's a cool guy. The Americano's are great and definitely won't break the bank. You won't find better prices.

  • Review from Denise S.

    Toronto, ON

    3.0 star rating
    3/11/2012 1 Check-in Here

    I came here with my Indie Coffee Passport on a sunny Sunday afternoon. There was a steady flow of customers, but it was never super-crowded, so I didn't feel bad staying for a couple hours to get some work done on my laptop. The space is ideal for both socializing/doing work (a lot of cafes are good for one or the other, but not both). There are plush, leather seats at the front facing each other. A cozy spot to hang out or read the newspaper. Behind it, there's a long communal table, which is where the laptop people go. In the back, there is a small, darker room with tables for 2. I think I spotted some random old board games on one shelf.
    I had a mocha, which was pretty standard. All the chocolatey-ness seemed to be at the bottom, as often seems to happen. It was still pretty tasty though. I said I'd have it to stay, but they served it in a paper cup anyway:(
    Music was an inoffensive mix of indie and oldies. The volume was not too loud. You can still hear yourself think. Decor is simple and worn-in. I liked the display of vintage teapot/teacups on the east wall. The location is great if you happen to be in the 'hood. It's just steps from some excellent restaurants on Queen West and there are also some good antique and vintage stores across the street. It's also just a couple blocks from St. Joseph's Health Centre. Wifi is free and reliable.

  • Review from Kazuo O.

    • 10 friends
    • 3 reviews

    Honolulu, HI

    USA
    4.0 star rating
    10/26/2011

    Had a "red coffee" made by using leaves from the Rooibos bush and infusing using an espresso machine. Relatively satisfied with the results, though would need to return for an actual coffee. I wonder if using the machine this way affects the taste of the coffee?

    Simple and relaxed atmosphere on a Monday afternoon channeling the mood of this west of Queen West neighborhood. Free WiFi definitely a crowd pleaser. Friendly service. Everything you need to get some light reading or work done.

  • Review from Lauren M.

    Toronto, ON

    3.0 star rating
    5/15/2011 1 Check-in Here

    The $1 americanos are only available for "Early bird" between 7:30-11am.

    Still...a $1 americano is pretty sweet. $2 otherwise, tax included.

    Eclectic mix of furniture here; I believe I was sitting in a church pew. The little back room looks like someone's living room.

    Friendly barista, free wi-fi, decent coffee, relaxing atmosphere. Everything you need.

  • Review from Rachel L.

    • 30 friends
    • 101 reviews

    Toronto, ON

    4.0 star rating
    1/18/2011

    A stroll through Parkdale landed me in this place. Upon walking in, I observed three things:

    1. Americanos are something like $1.
    2. There is a great living room-esque back room.
    3. The only music played was the Beatles.

    I ordered an espresso, my standard drink, and right as I was about to whisk it over to my table, the barista asked me to wait. He sliced the peel of an orange onto my saucer and said a customer earlier that day said that rubbing the citrus skin on the mouth of the coffee cup enhances the sensual experience. While I can't say that it made a huge difference to me, I am giving the barista (who was great!) points for creativity.

    This place is inviting and in the heart of Parkdale. I was pleased to see the diversity of customers and I'd definitely swing by if I am in the neighbourhood again.

  • Review from Jennifer K.

    Markham, ON

    4.0 star rating
    2/11/2011 1 photo

    Americano Coffee for $1 and comes with free WIFI!!

    That is much better than having one at Tim Horton! And you can drink from a MUG too!!

    Coffee here is Fair Traded and Organic from Planet Bean and if you want a pastry they are from Circle and Square.

    Now it is a coffee shop that really not ripping customers off!

  • Review from Elvis A.

    Toronto, ON

    2.0 star rating
    9/7/2011 3 photos 2 Check-ins Here

    This cafe has a nice setup with comfy sofas and a huge space. The location is way west of the city and is accessible by street car.
    Now for the coffee or rather the cappuccino it was pretty bad and actually I have had much better iteration of this drink at home. There wasn;t much crema' to speak off. The barista steamed and poured the milk first and then poured and espresso shot (I haven't seen a cappuccino done this way in cafe for a long time) Result was not a very good drink.
    And the funny thing is the Barista just left the store all empty and walked away after making my drink.
    Its just another run of a mill coffee place that I wouldn't bother trying.
    1.5 Star overall.
    Updated on the second trip I tried a mocha as the cappuccino was pretty bad, Not much of an improvement I must say. Hardly any coco taste just warm milk with hint of coco. One can do much better at home or use an instant mix.

  • Review from Jameson K.

    • 5 friends
    • 2 reviews

    Toronto, ON

    4.0 star rating
    2/22/2011 1 Check-in Here

    Good Java - cozy atmosphere.  Friendly staff.

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