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White Squirrel Coffee Shop
Category: Food Coffee & Tea Coffee & Tea [Edit]
907 Queen St WToronto, ON M6J 1G5
Neighbourhoods: Niagara, West Queen West, Trinity Bellwoods
(647) 428-4478
- Hours:
Mon-Sun 8 am - 9:30 pm
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Price Range:
-
$
- Parking:
- Street
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
42 reviews for White Squirrel Coffee Shop
Review Highlights
42 reviews in English
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Review from Sonia B.
Mississauga, ON
5/22/2012
What's up with the washroom?
So the washroom is a one person room like you might find at home as opposed to the stall situation. Here's the thing- the door has "frosted" glass cut outs basically from floor to ceiling. And I use quotes around frosted because it's still fairly see through. And its right beside the toilet. So you can see the people as they walk by outside while you're in there. And they can see you. Awkward.
ANYWAYS, White Squirrel serves a great coffee and has many DELICIOUS ice cream flavors- I highly recommend the roasted marshmallow, coffee toffee and lemon meringue.
It's a trendy spot right across from Trinity Bellwoods park so you can grab your tasty treat at the "walk by" window and enjoy it out in the sunshine, or at one of the communal picnic-like tables inside. Love the option to use Liquid Stevia as a more healthy alternative to sugar. -
Review from Coy W.
12/21/2011 1 Check-in Here
This place was more awesome when I thought it was called Coffee Shop and not White Squirrel Coffee Shop.
Seriously though, I dropped in for a coffee and they ran out of coffee beans so gave me an Americano instead. I had a not so good Americano earlier in the day and was hesitant but accepted. It was actually damn good and didn't taste like burnt ass.
The place looks small and cramped with limited seating and I opted for my Americano to go. They probably have some awesome people watching in the summer though as it's across from Trinity Bellwoods. I'll be back though as I did like my coffee more than the chains to go on the Queen strip from the WQW all the way down to Spadina.
Thanks for the wake me up barista lady! -
Review from Lisa C.
Toronto, ON
12/20/2011 2 Check-ins Here
My first experience at White Squirrel was in warm weather and I was really excited about finding what I still think is the most delicious ice cream sandwich I've ever had... it was amazing! I had opted for Greg's roasted marshmallow which they served between two perfectly chewy dark cookies that I believe were a chocolate/gingersnap combo of some sort.
I've been back several times since for coffee, mostly due to proximity to the park, and my willpower has been tested against these treats. Luckily, they make a great americano too.
Due to it's small size, I wouldn't go here to hang out for long, but it's perfect for dropping in on your way to Trinity Bellwoods or browsing Queen West. -
Review from Diane D.
Maple, ON
9/26/2011
It's located in a nice area, I came here in search of hot chocolate (the original intention was to head for Morocco's, but since it's tucked away in Yorkville and we were by Trinity Bellwoods, we decided to try something new).
Squirrel offers a selection of coffees, hot/cold drinks, and ice cream (they carry Greg's ice cream).
Overall ambiance is quaint, casual & simple - west queen street ish - with a small sitting area on the ground & upper floor balcony.
I only ordered hot chocolate, so I can't say much about its coffees, but I was shocked that a small cup of average tasting hot chocolate cost $3! You don't really get what you pay for - I would definitely rather head for Starbucks for a vente hot chocolate that costs less than $3 and tastes the same, if not better. -
Review from Steph C.
The Danforth, Toronto, ON
3/12/2012
The last few visits to the Queen West area, I've stopped into White Squirrel for my coffee fix. I've only ordered lattes from there, but that's all I really need. The espresso was strong enough and the price is reasonable. The next time I visit Queen West area, I am going to try the ice cream especially on a beautiful sunny day. I've never sat in there to have coffee however, on a day like yesterday, we just chilled out with our lattes at the park. It was a great way to spend our Sunday afternoon.
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Review from Nicole H.
Toronto, ON
Queen Street West has a pretty decent smattering of cafes, but i'm going to go on and tell you that you should just head for the White Squirrel. Not elusive at all like its namesake, it's smack bang across from Trinity Bellwoods Park and easy to get to on foot/streetcar.
My usual bet is for a soy latte - and I love getting it to have in the cafe because you get a wee denim cup sleeve for your glass! I've also had the flat white, which is a killer. I can't speak to the range of snacks/ice cream as I don't think i've seen a vegan option there. But i'm always about the coffee when I drop in.
During the warmer months, I love grabbing my latte to go and heading over into the park to grab a spot on a bench and enjoy the sunshine while caffeinating. (There's even a little to-go window to order if you fancy - although it's not exactly much further to step into the cafe and make your request.) In the colder months it's tricky to find a spot in the cafe, but a latte to go can still warm the hands and heart.
Clean surroundings and lovely decor in the cafe (lots of exposed wood), it's quite nice when you *can* get a seat. Washroom facilities are available, and are clean.
A very high 4 stars, only a couple of things holding me back from 5 - lack of seating & the quality of the latte can sometimes waver depending on who's making it. I've never had a BAD latte here though.
White Squirrel! C'mere and let me cuddle you. -
Review from Noel D.
8/13/2011 2 Check-ins Here
I've only been here a handful of times, and it's usually when I am hung over and just need a simple cup of coffee to slowly sip on while walking home or heading to a brunch spot.
The place is quite relaxing each time I've come in. There's always people on the small top floor quietly working on their laptops. The people serving me have always been nice and polite, and the customers ahead or behind of me appear to be friendly as well. Overall the vibe is nice and I like how they seem to have all the handy caffeine ingredients right in front of me. I never have to really look around to locate milk or cream.
I'd really love to come back some day when I am not so groggy. I would also like to try their ice cream selection, but until then I can recommend this spot for quality coffee served by some nice peeps! -
Review from Vivek S.
5/8/2011 1 Check-in Here
Have you seen the white squirrel? This Queen West coffeeshop is named for the albino rodent celebrity of Trinity Bellwoods park. Like a rodent, the café is pretty small and feisty, but unlike a rodent the staff won't gnaw on your belongings or infect you with the plague. I don't think.
They do a mean espresso here (I recommend the flat white), and as an added bonus they serve many flavours of Greg's Ice Cream. And unlike Greg's they aren't cash only, so you can CHARGE that toasted marshmallow!
Even though they have free Wifi, it's not an ideal spot for settling down with your coffee as seating is limited to a short (and oddly-shaped) communal table and a three-seat bar. But with the park right across the street, you might as well take your latte to go.
Obligatory Title Pun: "If it ain't WHITE it ain't right." (As my pappy used to say.)
Menu Readability: Crazy cool magnets on a whiteboard.
Need to mention: This cafe is open "late"! Closes at 8pm. (Also, my pappy is not a white supremacist. I don't even have a pappy.)
What this place teaches me about myself: Did you know that squirrels in captivity can live up to 20 years? -
Review from Callan S.
9/17/2011
Cute. Yummy lattes. I love squirrels. Treats to eat.
I'd go here all the time if I lived in Toronto.
The park across the street is great. So nice...warm or cold out...doesn't matter. Have some ice cream or a muffin.
Can't wait to go back. -
Review from Jorge L.
6/12/2011 2 Check-ins Here
I am in love with this place.
This is a LOCAL coffee shop with LOCAL vibe and genuine awesome cafe americano. The ambience, the staff and the patrons all mix together. The table is "communal" which adds to its charm.
You will feel awkward to come here on a first date, people will potentially hear when you ask your date the question "so tell me more about yourself." Awkward right? Typical first date question.
Back to my review. There is no sign in front that says "White Squirrel" - just a white squirrel logo. I'm serious.
Though I have not tried it, the ice cream looks great. I will surely come back here to read a book or have a conversation with a stranger.
It's totally possible.Listed in: I'm addicted to coffee
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Review from Dimitrios D.
7/26/2011
Some guy working here teased my home state of New Jersey and made some kind of Tony Soprano reference.
With arguably rude service (hey, I'm from NJ, I take it personally) and so-so drinks, I can't see myself coming back.
Also- why add carbonation to lemonade? -
Review from Rachel L.
Toronto, ON
1/5/2011
White Squirrel is one of the very few places in Toronto whose coffee I genuinely enjoy drinking as an aficionado and not someone in need of caffeine. The espresso ($2.75) was executed perfectly and had a delightful fruity aftertaste, something I truly savour and have scoured far and wide. Most places in Toronto go for ridiculously burnt-tasting beans, but not White Squirrel.
The place is run by the former owner of Aunties and Uncles, my favourite brunch spot, and is situated right on Trinity Bellwoods. Perfect. What else is there to say? -
Review from Eliah H.
Toronto, ON
6/10/2011
As noted by other Yelpers White Squirrel Coffee Shop is named after the rarely seen but none the less legendary albino squirrel of Trinity Bellwoods park. Apt name as the place is just south of the park itself. The cafe is small with most of their business being take-out (they even have a street side pick up window). On the menu is of course caffeinated beverages as well as house baked goodies like muffins, empanadas (kudos!), ice cream and sandwiches.
The espresso is decent. The beans come from Mountain View Coffee. Taste is along the lines of a flavorful traditional Italian espresso. Service is as quick as the lone guy behind the counter can pump it out. The place tends to be a busy spot for coffee drinkers heading down the Queen St. W. strip to or from downtown. Though there isn't that much room for seating the place is none the less a popular spot for laptop warriors. Free WiFi of course.
If you happen to be around Trinity Bellwoods I think this cafe would be a good place to drop by for coffee, ice cream, or even lunch. -
Review from angela k.
Toronto, ON
9/20/2010
White Squirrel is definitely one of my favourite coffee spots anywhere.
The reasons are simple:
- The coffee is always delicious - a perfect latte or a perfect americano awaits you here, people.
- The staff is friendly, efficient and not pretentious.
- Biodegradable/environmentally friendly cups.
- Delicious muffins and treats (try the lemon corn bread muffin, I'm not sure if it's vegan though, whoops)
- The prices are competitive, cheaper than Starbucks, that's for sure.
- For those of you with an ice cream craving, they serve Greg's Ice Cream!
Bonus: they stay open later than most of the other indie coffee joints (in the summer they turn off the espresso machine at 8:30, 8 in the winter) thereby ensuring I am no longer reliant on the Starbucks or Second Cup down the road.
Only two things would make White Squirrel better:
- vegan ice cream (but I do realize this is incredibly rare and possibly asking a lot)
- a bigger tea selection (including more herbals). I think they only had about six tea options when I was there last.
Ultimately, this place is worth a visit and one of my favourite neighbourhood spots to pick up a latte before I wander around the park or the 'hood. -
Review from Kat F.
Late night coffee + even later night ice cream = the capture of Kat F's heart.
How delighted was I to be able to get a coffee at 7:58pm here the other day? Dead fucking chuffed, I'll tell ya. The cappuccinos here are cheap ($2.75 for a double shot) and so far consistently excellent after three visits. The café is open till 8pm every day in the summer, but the ice cream window stays open till 9:30pm. "We scoop till 9:30!" says the sandwich board out front.
The ice cream (via Greg's) is classic and they have about ten flavours going. While the prices for ice cream aren't cheap ($2.75-5.50) the portions are plentiful and a small is sufficient to curb a cold dessert craving. I tried the "Mint O" flavour, a combination of cookies 'n cream and mint chocolate chip (although it was sold beige in colour) and it was outstanding. I wouldn't hesitate to order this one again. Grab a scoop or two and head across the street to Trinity Bellwoods Park, which you obviously already know about if you're reading this review, because there's no way you could miss it!Listed in: Caffeinate Thyself
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Review from Laura t.
Toronto, ON
1/4/2011
The best thing this place has going is the location and the ginger cookies (and in the summer the ice cream) The coffee is pretty good, but they sometimes burn the milk in their lattes which is a big no-no. The atmosphere is simple,non pretentious and relaxed.
The service however is incredibly slow and grumpy. I don't think i've ever had someone behind the counter crack a smile at me (i'm here sometimes 3 times a week because it's so convenient) and sometimes they are downright rude. God forbid you ask for a clean spoon or a java jacket...if looks could kill!!! That being said if you can escape the daggars coming from the staffs eyeballs and make it safely up the stairs, it's a good place to sit and relax while overlooking the park. -
Review from Deanna W.
8/16/2009
White Squirrel has two good things going for it: greg's ice cream and a killer homemade iced tea.
Greg's ice cream needs no explanation, it was rather genius of them to serve this wonderful stuff across from Trinity Bellwoods. However, on the couple of times I've had the roasted marshmellow it has been rather soft...any softer and I would have had a milkshake!
The iced tea made in-house is a delight compared to other places that simply take a tea bag and dunk in ice and hot water. It's an orange peakoe base steeped with bengali spices and a wee bit of honey. Very refreshing!
Seating area is minimal and sparse. And what's up with promoting hand held breakfasts-what does this mean exactly? Enquiring minds want to know. -
Review from Yvette D.
Toronto, ON
8/13/2010
As a dog walker in the Queen West 'hood, the White Squirrel has been my saviour time and time again! It is the only place in the area where you can stroll up with a group of dogs and order a life-saving beverage (hot or cold) from the take-out window, never having to go inside. It only takes a minute, and for those with dogs or strollers, it is a godsend!
The White Squirrel lemonade ($2.50) is the BEST IN TORONTO! It's wonderfully fresh and spritzer-like, with the optional mint making it more like an alcohol-free mojito. And if you're ultra-environmentally conscious, you can forgo the (biodegradable) cup and take it to the park in a glass...they trust that you will return it. ;)
For vegans, the tofu & chickpea empanada is healthy, filling, and yummy, but they sell out early!
All of the staff have been nothing but fast, friendly and helpful, and I stop there 4-5 times/week so trust me, I would know! If other reviewers claim otherwise, I would suggest that their experiences are more a reflection on themselves than the White Squirrel staff. -
Review from Neil T.
Toronto, ON
6/27/2009
Seems like a cute place from the outside with a lot of customers on a nice Saturday afternoon. However, you only get one chance to make a first impression.
The ice cream flavors, mysteriously named, come with no descriptions. When asked about the contents of these ice creams (god forbid you have an allergy to anything), the arrogant staff get annoyed.
My friend's ice cream was very 'soft' and couldn't be served alone in a cone (it had to be served upside down in a cup). They forgot about my lemonade, which resembled a virgin mojito more than anything, so that was a bit annoying as well.
I wouldn't go back again simply because of the arrogance and attitude. There's a lot of other shops I could spend my money on, thanks.Listed in: Neil's Blacklist
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Review from geraldine g.
Toronto, ON
12/11/2010
With so many places to get coffee, the only giant pull to go here again is the ice cream I`ve heard so much about.
The espresso was ok. Something I might have again if I wanted a coffee and had no other place to go along that strip.
True enough it is inexpensive as far as cups o `joe`s go.
The problem is the layout, too. There were two people ahead of me and that was enough for me to think, `Ì`m going to get whacked by the door everytime someone walks in.`` -
Review from Toronto L.
Toronto, ON
7/9/2011
the Toronto Lover system:
5 stars = Must visit!
4 stars = Really good. I take my friends here.
3 stars = Somewhat worth it... if you have nowhere better to go.
2 stars = Below average. Attend only when necessary.
1 star = Do not visit!
This is the coffee shop Louis CK is talking about. It is extremely cute, quaint, and oozing with cool. People here say really hip things like "yehheehhh, me tooooo." If you can negotiate through the Hipsters talking about bicycles and gluten, do so and get yourself a coffee and a snack. Everything here is fresh and wonderful, to the point of your best friend's mother's kitchen. It's small, so don't expect to sit down unless you're very lucky to find a seat; however, Trinity Park is right across the street, and Queen West is a rewarding walk at most times of the year. Food is great, drinks are great, prices are what you expect - but no more offensive than a Starbucks or Second Cup. This is a quality Coffee Shop.
4 stars -
Review from Dean L.
Toronto, ON
7/18/2009
What's up with the name White Squirrel?
I don't know, but my girlfriend spotted a little brown mouse there yesterday.
Maybe they should re-name it the "Brown Mouse".
Anyways....good coffee, wonderful ice cream sandwiches, rodent friendly environment.
If you take away the mouse, I think I could really enjoy this cozy little cafe. -
Review from Luke S.
1/5/2011
I like going to White Squirrel, the coffee is decent, among the better in TO.
However, the place is dirty and shabby inside. 4 stars for the coffee, 1.5 for the ambiance.
Go for the takeout window. -
Review from Keith B.
11/17/2009
I was surprised to read negative reviews about this place. I usually grab an americano here on my way to/from trinity bell woods park and always have a pleasant experience.
I love the clean, modern look inside. I found the menu very readable and upon my first visit it was clear where I was supposed to order and stand (not too hard to figure out, given the tiny size, but with some coffee shops it is frustrating to not know the proper protocol.)
I found the staff very friendly and not pretentious at all. In fact, my only issue with this place is the size - it can get crowded fast because it is so small, but I have found service here to be very quick.
The americanos are tasty and cheap, and I've had a few of their treats (including a brownie, which even though I don't really like sweet/deserty things, was admittedly delicious.) -
Review from Tammy Y.
5/4/2010
I am sitting here as we speak. Thank goodness for trendy coffee shops along Queen West who don't turn their noses up at people who linger.
I've been here once before, and was turned off by the snobbish attitude of one of the staff when ordering some Greg's Ice Cream.
Thankfully, today, the owner (previously a partner of Auntie's & Uncle's fame), is here and keeping things casual and friendly. In my eavesdropping as he chats with regular customers, he works here during the weekdays and loves his new venture. It is well earned, I think. The atmosphere is lazy and not over-thought. Prices are also quite reasonable (a large iced tea is comfy at $2.50) and lovely to enjoy 'round the communal table of Macs, Macs, and many more Macs.
Ah yes, White Squirrel, you have redeemed yourself. -
Review from Allison T.
Toronto, ON
6/19/2011
With a cappuccino to go, we traipse across the street to Trinity Bellwoods Park. White Squirrel's brownies: moist & fudgey. A great place to stop by on your way to a wonderful summery outing.
Listed in: Indie Coffee
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Review from Kent P.
7/27/2010
THEY HAD GREG'S ICE CREAM. http://www.yelp.ca/biz...
YOU CAN GO EAT IT IN THE PARK.
JUST GET A SMALL ($3.75 - TWO SCOOPS).
GREAT! -
Review from Michelle A.
Toronto, ON
7/27/2010
Stopped by White Squirrel today because I saw people eating ice cream outside and wanted a cone ... was pleasantly surprised to see that they were selling Greg's Ice Cream - wooot.. I had a kiddie size scoop of malt ball crunch - chocolate based with little pieces of whopper like candies. I also sampled coffee toffee, which was excellent.
Kiddie size is $3, but you still get one really big scoop. A small size comes with two scoops - and they let you mix and match.Listed in: Coffee faves
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Review from Leslie-Anne W.
Toronto, ON
12/23/2010 2 Check-ins Here
White Squirrel is adorable, hip and named after the elusive white squirrel of trinity bellwoods park. The coffee is organic and locally roasted. The snacks are worthwhile and the ice cream is from Greg's, which is pretty good in my books. The most delicious coffee drink to order is the Flat White - which is like a stronger, less milky and frothy latte. Order one. Today.
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Review from Ray N.
Toronto, ON
2/24/2010
You know this place typifies what the Trinity Bellwoods area is known for.. Hip, young, urban types - some with strollers, all with Macs. The chicks are cute, and the guys all have beards.
It's a nice place, but I show up at about 3pm to get some work done, and almost every time (ok 4 times in the last 2 weeks), they have nothing to eat except ginger cookies, brownies, and some kind of biscotti. Neither of these really turn my crank.
The atmosphere has a kind of charm to it, the WiFi is decent, and the coffee is pretty good. So I keep going back. Or maybe it's because of the cute chicks ;) -
Review from Anthony W.
7/6/2011
Very nice place and location
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Review from Dylan D.
3/13/2010
Had a cappuccino.
It was well crafted. It seems "3rd wave" espresso joints in Toronto have a problem brewing thier espresso at the right temperature resulting in a sour or bitter cup. These guys get it right. The cap was strong without sliding into bitter or sour. The beans they use don't seem to have any outstanding flavour properties but were enjoyable. I found earthy chocolate notes as it married with the milk.
They use glasses wrapped in a little denim jacket. I always prefer a porcelain cappuccino cup, but this is a cute little quirk that sets them apart. And the most important thing is the quality of the beverage in the cup right?
The space is small and intersting. The seating is very close quarters, but good enough to sit and chat with a friend or make new friends.
yeah. -
Review from Kat T.
8/3/2010
The white Squirrel is exactly what a little Bellwoods coffee shop should be. If Broken Social Scene could have designed one, this is what it looks like. It is a cmmunity with good branding. The drink called The Flat White (Squirrel) is like a cortado, an Australian born drink of espresso and just enough frothy milk to make is taupe coloured. White Squirrel icecream. Is also just the right blend of chocolate (white) fruit and nuts.
Listed in: Intelligent(sia) Coffee
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Review from Novalina N.
9/22/2010 1 photo
Awesome coffee, cute barista, and good location (right in front of the park). Space is kinda tiny and it's all upstairs. They have this coffee pick up window, and for some reason it brings a lot of flies in, which is kinda annoying. I wish their space set up is better!
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Review from Amanda L.
Toronto, ON
8/15/2010
A coffee shop with a pick-up window. Perfect for those with dogs. I tried the iced tea, which had too much cinammon for my taste. My friend had the flat white, which apparently is really hard to find outside of Australia. The atmosphere was fun and service was quick. next time I'd order the lemonade though.....
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Review from John B.
Toronto, ON
4/28/2009
I was pleasantly surprised by this place. Simple, airy and attractive insides, and the espresso I had was served up in a novel tall glass while still being true to the basics of a good coffee beverage. The food on offer is simple but seems decent. I had a novel-seeming biscotti, but will return to sample their sandwiches and so-called handheld breakfasts when I get a chance.
Listed in: Toronto's Best Espresso
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Review from mondayjane s.
Toronto, ON
7/3/2010
the coffee is great - nice thick espresso with a lovely crema. The barristas range in friendliness, but overall it is a nice experience to get a coffee there. They are geniuses for carrying Greg's Ice Cream, because it makes for a whole other reason to go ... hello Toasted Marshmallow!
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Review from Audrey W.
Toronto, ON
8/8/2011
This is one of the few coffee shop that serves the popular Australia 'flat white' coffees. Has great ice cream and a walk up take out window, what more could you ask for.
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Review from Maia K.
Toronto, ON
4/5/2010
I like this cafe a lot. It is in the ideal location-across from Trinity Bellwoods. On warm days, they will let you take their cups/glasses OUT of the cafe, into the park and return them at the end which is pretty great. Nice sunny place to sit and read - surrounded by people staring at their computers-does anyone read any more? The Australian flat white is bang on,-light, frothy and strong. It leaves a weird sort of after taste. The other coffees on order are only so-so. It's so unfortunate that fair-trade, organic coffee doesn't really taste all that great BUT after seeing BLACK GOLD-I will drink it by golly! They've got some good snacks and Greg's icecream is always welcome. The staff is nice but there aren't enough of them. Not the place to grab a coffee if you're in a hurry. Love the big old map of Toronto on the wall.
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Review from simon g.
Toronto, ON
9/30/2010
super happy to find out David Ginsberg (formerly of Aunties & Uncles) is running the joint. makes sense then why it's so simple yet is good. not many could make this location work. nice!
