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Toronto Coffee Company
Category: Food Coffee & Tea Coffee & Tea [Edit]
685 Lansdowne AveToronto, ON M6H 3Y9
Neighbourhoods: Bloordale Village, Wallace Emerson
(416) 538-2888
- Hours:
Mon-Fri 6 am - 10 pm
Sat 8 am - 6 pm
Sun 9 am - 5 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
15 reviews for Toronto Coffee Company
15 reviews in English
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Review from Rochelle L.
Toronto, ON
4/18/2012
I moved into Bloordale Village just over a year ago from College/Ossington. I tell you this because my old 'hood had some pretty stellar coffee places just a hop jump and a skip away. Now, upon settling into my super cute new apartment, I discovered that my coffee options were limited to the Coffee Time at the corner of Bloor/Lansdowne and Holy Oak just down the street. Neither of them had the same vibe that my home away from home Lit Espresso on College had. Not to mention 1 out of the two is a COFFEE TIME. So, cue the trumpets and fanfare when I saw a sign in the window of TCC saying how hiring "Baristas". I thought to myself, self- is this too good to be true? A new coffee establishment in my 'hood. Would this be my answer to my under-caffienated prayers?
Low and behold, the prayers were answered. Toronto Coffee Company is a mighty cute joint. I'm not the hugest fan of the decor, and the chairs are not the most comfortable for long stints of laptop squatting. While I totally appreciate the aesthetic of rough around the edges (much like the neighbourhood) I feel like it's been done before. BUT we're not here to review the decor are we?
Let's take a quick second to talk about the coffee. The internet raves about the Coconut Lattes, which I have yet to try. The reason for this is that I've never had an issue with either of the self serve drip coffee options on tap daily. I also like their tea selection, they are unique and always delicious.
TCC serves the most of the standard pastries from OMG which a lot of TO based coffee shops to. I have no issues with that, minus the lack of originality, the pastries are good, so why guild the lilly. There is also a wide range of vegan friendly pastries, which probably go stunningly well with the coconut lattes. (If you're into that kind of thing)
What sets TCC apart is their consistently good customer service. Being located right by Lansdowne Subway station, they get a wide range of customers. Including the medium double double crowd. Their patience and ability to roll with the punches (even when the punches are ridiculously sketch) astounds me. They are also slightly cheaper than most coffee shops in the west end, making my constant quest for caffeine and a space to work that isn't home relatively affordable.
TCC has quickly become a neighbourhood staple in the few short months that they have been open. They are open later than most coffee shops in the city and have decent free wifi. It has become my go- to place for needing to get some work done in the late afternoon, and I don't see that changing any time soon. -
Review from Jenna C.
Toronto, ON
4/10/2012
Oh good coffee. How I missed you in Blansdowne. That is until the coffee mecca appeared in the form of the Toronto Coffee Company.
I'm totally a fan of this place. I go in any time I'm commuting on the subway. I even have one of their punch cards and I use it religiously! Just had a free coffee yesterday! #Winning.
The owner is there often as well, which is nice. You know who to talk to. I have a confession to make - I once used one of the "dirty spoons" in my fresh latte! Gross! They were super sweet and gave me a new one because I was so grossed out! LOL That is customer service!
My large latte is $4.00 and always has the pretty leaf design on the top. The staff is gearing up for the 2013 Toronto Barista Challenge, I'm sure of it.
People also work out of the space too - It's got great solo tables along a vintage church pew (how cool), a big table for communal working, a couch and an arm chair, and lots of window seating. Go early if you want the arm chair, it's always taken when I walk in.
Thanks Toronto Coffee Company! -
Review from Dave J.
Toronto, ON
4/3/2012
I live around the corner and, since I moved here, TCC has been my go-to for coffee. I see a lot of other commenters waxing poetic on the Coconut Latté, but for me, it's all about the drip. Regardless of which blend I try, I always find something delicious and perfect, which runs afoul of the notion that organic coffee isn't noticeably better than diner sludge.
Aside from that, I find all staff members to be very friendly and competent, and the management to be accommodating and interesting. TCC is a good place to kill some time, meet up with friends, or tuck into some work. I'd recommend it to anyone looking for a new spot. -
Review from Vivian W.
3/15/2012
Doesn't look too attractive from the outside, but they did a good job on the reno inside!
I ordered a coconut latte that day. Well, if you are going to a new place, why not give the new drinks a try too! So i did. Do I like it? hmmm.... it's not bad, but I won't get it again. What they did is instead of milk, they foam up coconut milk. (is not coconut flavoured syrup). It smells very good, but I just can't get used to it. Also, as I was drinking, I cannot stop thinking how fattening it is......
My friend got a hot chocolate, but I think she said it's a bit too thick.
There are quite a few people doing some reading at the shop, and it has free wifi, good for someone who likes to hang out at a coffee shop on a Sunday afternoon and do some quiet reading. -
Review from Marie F.
3/6/2012 2 Check-ins Here
***2.5***
The first time I came here I ordered a regular latte sat down at the nice big comfy leather chair and really took my environment in. My initial thoughts were that Toronto Coffee Company was great and I was excited to have a new coffee hangout so close to home.
The second time I came here I had a complete change of heart. At the risk of execution, I am going to disagree with my fellow yelpers by saying the coconut latte was a total disappointment. I like relatively medium to strong coffee and lattes and I found this one to be way too sweet and milky (although I am aware it's not actual milk).
The WiFi situation was no better than my latte. Me and the stranger next to me struggled to reconnect a dozen times each as we were constantly kicked off the network. When I told the barrista, he reset the modem but still nothing. Apparently their WiFi is always touch and go he said.
I sadly can't work here if the internet is going to be unreliable. I'd probably come here if a regular latte sans laptop but alas this is not going to be my regular work spot unless they fix their internet. -
Review from Vivek S.
10/28/2011 1 Check-in Here
It's not much to look at from the outside, but be not fooled. The Toronto Coffee Company is a cozy little shop. I was actually on my way to Holy Oak, but I was tempted by the Coconut Latte on the sandwich board outside. (It's made with real coconut milk, so vegans rejoice!)
The shop itself is quite spacious. There is a communal table near the back, and a long pew which accomodates three tables near the front of the cafe. There is also a bar at the street facing window. Thanks to the free Wi-Fi it was a pretty accomodating place to work for a few hours.
The coconut latte was pretty good! It's quite sweet, which is a change from how I usually like my coffee but it wasn't bad at all. The coconut really makes for a mellow drink, and was an impressive opening salvo.
All this and the proximity to Lansdowne subway station portends great things for this café. I shall return.
Obligatory Title Pun: TORn your head and COF.
Menu Readability: Chalk. I'm almost getting tired of writing that.
Need to mention: They carry cupcakes from OMG.
What this place teaches me about myself: I'm cuckoo for coconut. -
Review from Patrick M.
Toronto, ON
10/10/2011
I've heard talk lately that the goal of Toronto Coffee Company is to bring a great, indy, fair-trade coffee shop to the Bloordale community. That we're lacking in great coffee here, and that maybe we don't know what great coffee is.
Listen, Holy Oak is a great, indy, fair-trade coffee shop (and bar) in the Bloordale community. They're fantastic, one of the best Americanos I've ever had. They're around the corner and down the street. They aren't the kind of place that appeals to the average Joe, however, and the average Joe won't be going out of his way to grab a cup...
The Toronto Coffee Company is right next door to the subway stop, about as good a location as you can get, and they play the "accessible-to-the-masses" coffee shop game close to perfection. They look like they're a chain, and I've no doubt that -- if they're successful -- they'll soon open up additional locations. Joe will feel at home, but so, too, will the artists and musicians that call Bloordale home. It's a great space, open with plenty of seating, comfortable and homey.
All that said, how's the coffee?
In a word, "fantastic". $2.50 for a double Americano that was nutty, rich, with a nice thin froth on top. Holy Oak has some real competition here, though I hesitate to use the word "competition" -- they're different animals that will likely happily co-exist. I hope I'm right, because I love Holy Oak and my first experience with TCC was excellent.
I talked with Dani, the barista on duty, about what they're offering: Moonbeam, of Kensington fame, each blend specific to method (drip, espresso, latte, etc). I'm excited to try their coconut latte, as I suspect it's a gimmick that backs up talk with quality. It sure *sounds* great. Dani herself was friendly, helpful, and informative -- the owners seem to have done well in choosing their staff, as a surly / bored barista can easily ruin a first timer's opinion.
I'm also told that the owners are part of the community, artists themselves, and passionate about both local business and eco-business. That's important to me -- their passion and care alone will likely prove to draw in the locals... added bonus that the coffee's great and, man, can you ask for a better location???
So if you're a commuter relying on the dingy Lansdowne Station... well, you now know where to grab a great cup while you're rushing to catch your train!Listed in: 30 in 30? Quantity & Quality!
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Review from Lisa C.
Toronto, ON
11/14/2011 2 Check-ins Here
My new favourite place!
I knew this place existed, but the banner sign outside was a bit off-putting at first. Inside is another story. It's spacious and comfortable. You can sit on a leather couch or chair to read a book, perch by the window on a funky stool to skim the paper, or park it on a pew with your laptop.
I opted for the Coconut Latte on my first visit. Superb - really, try it. I've sampled a few of the teas they have available too - very good. Next up, Spicy Hot Chocolate - I'll let you know.
I like the feel of this place - vintage-y, industrial, and somehow cozy despite the large space. -
Review from Sara L.
Toronto, ON
10/15/2011
I was really excited when this place first opened up. The neighbourhood was in need of more coffee joints. But after my first visit I left disappointed and will continue to walk the extra few blocks to holy oak for my morning cap.
I ordered a cappuccino, and was mildly confused when they asked me what size i wanted. I was served a 16oz cup of muddy tasting espresso mixed with about twice the standard serving of milk, which was scalded and tasted burnt. It took from lansdowne station until yonge and college before my coffee was cool enough to drink, and after 3 sips I threw it out.
If you're just looking for a standard cup of coffee, then I'm sure this place will suit you just fine and encourage you to support an independent business.
I'd be more willing to give it a second shot if it was just a bad espresso pull, or accidentally over-heated milk. But a cappuccino with twice the standard amount of milk shows lack of basic knowledge in the artisan coffee world. Doubt I'll be returning. -
Review from Jennifer K.
Markham, ON
Toronto Coffee Company is a nice addition to the Bloordale neighbourhood.
Great location, right at the subway station. Though no permanent store sign upfront yet, but it is hard to miss, at least during the day!
The vibe is quite mellow here.... everyone seems to be either reading or on their laptops. Not too many electrical outlets though... so my stay was relatively short till I ran out of power....
I ended up drinking my Cappuccino with Coconut Milk ($3.50) like a dessert drink sprinkled with sweetener.
I like Toronto Coffee Company better than the other coffee shops in the area, so I know I will be back when I am in Bloordale!
Free Wifi, just ask for the password... and I thought the barista was giving away his phone number :) -
Review from Michelle Y.
Toronto, ON
11/16/2011
The Coconut Latte is the main reason I swung by The Toronto Coffee Company last weekend. As someone who can't do dairy or soy, it was such a boon and lived up to the hype. They don't use flavoured syrup, as the friendly barista told me, just pure coconut milk and a touch of vanilla.
I have walked by this place several times without noticing it, with it's slightly unassuming store front. It's clean and spacious, albeit a little "sparse" feeling with the decor. Who cares...tasty coffee and baked goods from Desmond and Beatrice. -
Review from jenna m.
I love the design of this place and I love that it is on my way to the subway in the morning. Toronto Coffee Company is very tastefully designed, decorated and furnished. Vintage industrial stools line a counter bar that is facing a window out to the street so you may sit, sip and observed all of the interesting characters in the Blo-downe hood. Ornate large wooden pieces are installed and suspended from the ceiling. There are nicely staged antique mirrors and chalk boards throughout the cafe. There is a lovely exposed brick wall on the south side of the cafe and a table fashioned out of reclaimed barn boards. The menu is fairly typical of a Coffee bar with some tasty looking pastries to boot. Aesthetically I love this place. I sampled the coconut latte and I was not blown away. In all fairness I am not the biggest fan of syrup flavours being added to my coffee. The coconut was too overpowering for my palate and I could not taste the coffee beans at all. I will have to experiment with something else next time. This is a great sophisticated addition to the area and I look forward to exploring the menu.
I recommend The Toronto Coffee Company. -
Review from Ada T.
Toronto, ON
1/21/2012
mmmm great coconut latte!! every sip is better than the previous one. lots of space and comfortable environment. free wifi as well. will be back to try their other lattes and their regular coffee!
Listed in: Bloordale / Bloorcourt
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Review from Natasha A.
Toronto, ON
11/1/2011 4 Check-ins Here
Fantastic!! The staff is friendly and helpful. The coconut latte is just delicious, almost buttery its so rich and best of all dairy & sugary free!! The pastries are moist and buttery. Finally the organic and free trade products are icing on top of this awesome new addition to the Bloordale cake. My new favorite cafe in town, highly recommended and dangerously delicious.
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Review from Val A.
Wallace Emerson, Toronto, ON
11/21/2011 2 Check-ins Here
Best coffee in town..sorry Starbucks but this is one hood you can't compete in.
