We Conclude our Series from Last Issue
Jetfuel
Free of the pretension normally associated with cafes, Jetfuel thrives in its cozy Cabbagetown alcove. As soothing as minimalist decor is, it’s nice to appreciate a space with a lived-in feel and Jetfuel has that in boatloads. It’s one of Toronto’s oldest coffee shops, but also one that has a multi-faceted feel due to its deep roots in the cycling community. Whether you’re stopping by for an espresso after a long ride, or simply stopping to indulge in some pastries while admiring the cafe’s cycling heritage, you’re in for a treat.
Tandem Coffee
While most romantic partners have probably joked about entering into a business partnership with their loved one, Michie and Eugene Yamamoto put their money where their mouth is and did just that. With Michie having experience in the industry from her time at Rooster, the two were well-versed to deal with the inevitable challenges and have been open for around 5 years. The couple’s warm nature along with their excellent taste in muted (but not overly plain) decor makes the trip out to Tandem more than worth it. Take pains to try their offering from Quietly Coffee, a roaster which is run by a former York PhD student, Lee Knuttila.
The Library Specialty Coffee
If you expect to find stacks of books and leather armchairs in this shop given the name, you’ll be sorely disappointed. What you won’t be vexed by is the quality of the pour-over and espresso at this Dundas Street West joint, opened by a former Melbourne resident. The stark minimalist decor is hardly novel, but it’s well-executed and it’s nice to be able to see all the beans the in-house roaster has available. Perfectly placed for a quick visit before or after perusing the AGO.
Hot Black
Given the foot traffic that Queen Street West gets, Hot Black can get busy. If you’re ever doing some shopping on the famous street, make sure to carve out a chunk of time to take a seat at Hot Black. You won’t miss the stunning red facade, and you’ll be hard-pressed to keep your jaw off the floor when you get a look at their stunning copper-pendant light fixtures. Savour a cappuccino and a sweet treat before heading back to join the masses.
Quantum
Quantum sits perched on a busy intersection at King Street West and Spadina and is normally packed as a result. Luckily, the shop has a huge seating area to work with — especially when their patio is open — and can accomodate both tourists and weekend warriors stopping by after spin class. The pastries are delectable, and something tells me Harry Potter fans might be enthused by their lightning bolt logo.