Cafés to get a cuppa coffee in the Annex
One of Toronto’s oldest neighbourhoods, the Annex is home to an eclectic mix of people from all backgrounds. This cultural mix is reflected in the diverse range of unique cafés that can be found in the area. From family-friendly creative outlets to modern Italian espresso bars, here are a few local faves.
Aroma Expresso Bar
2C-2300 Yonge St, Toronto, ON M4P 1E4Sourcing their beans primarily from Zimbabwe, Brazil and Malawi, Aroma has created an exceptional blend of coffee roasted at their own facility in Israel. Part of a chain of espresso bars, they have an amazing array of espresso-based drinks and also offer standard drip coffee for those who want something less fancy. Try Affogato ̶ a shot of espresso with a scoop of ice cream ̶ on a hot summer day.
B Expresso Bar
273 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M5S 1W2Located in the atrium of the Royal Conservatory of Music, this modern Italian espresso bar (where the “b” stands for “barista”) offers a laid back atmosphere for some of the most talented young people in music today. They have a range of items for a snack or light lunch, from bagels and sandwiches to muffins and frozen yogurt. The space is bright and airy and it’s open later on concert nights so you can get an espresso before the show.
The Scoop And Bean
2 Follis Ave, Toronto, ON M6G 1S3An ice cream shop and café all in one! This unique concept has really caught on in Toronto’s coffee scene, and it is becoming one of the more popular shops around. The staff consists of highly trained professional baristas who have perfected the art of making the perfect cappuccino and latte. In addition to their great coffee, this café also offers ice cream, pastries, big comfy chairs and Wi-Fi.
Rapido
1089 Bathurst St, Toronto, ON M5R 3G8Santaguida Find Foods specializes in corporate catering, but they also own this coffee shop just down the street from their kitchen on Bathurst – open only Monday to Friday. It’s a popular spot among locals looking for a perfectly made espresso, cappuccino or mocha. All their drinks are made with the same care and attention that goes into the food for which they’ve become famous.
Super-Jet International Coffee Shop
346 Dupont St, Toronto, ON M5R 1V9Located on DuPont Street, this no frills coffee shop is a welcome addition to the neighbourhood. The aesthetic is minimalist ̶ nothing fancy here, but nor does there need to be. It’s clear that what the owner finds important in building a good coffee shop is good coffee. He uses the freshest, locally roasted beans to create simple and delicious drinks.
