Toronto has some of the best cafes in Canada, known for their vibrant coffee culture, inviting spaces, and quality brews. Whether you’re in search of a cozy spot to work, the best coffee shop in Toronto, or a beautiful space to relax, this guide will help you find the perfect cafe.
We’re spotlighting five standout spots, evaluating them on ambiance, coffee quality, aesthetics, pricing, and a few insider tips to make your experience even better.
What We Considered
Here’s how we chose the best cafes:
Ambiance: Is it a good environment for working or relaxing?
Coffee Quality: How good is the coffee, and is there variety (including options like gluten-free snacks)?
Aesthetics: How does the space look and feel?
Pricing: What can you expect to pay?
Pro Tips: Helpful advice for making the most of your visit.
Best for: Work, Study, and Good Coffee
Location: 140 Yonge St., Financial District
Located in the Financial District, Dineen Coffee Co. is often considered the best cafe in downtown Toronto for those looking for a quiet space to work. Its spacious interior and large windows make it a favorite for students and professionals. The cafe’s vintage decor, with tiled floors and leather seating, adds a touch of elegance to your coffee break.
Coffee Quality: Known for its smooth espresso-based drinks, Dineen also offers specialty coffee options for those seeking something different.
Aesthetics: Classic and chic, with a sophisticated old-world charm.
Pricing: $4-6 for coffee drinks.
Pro Tip: Arrive early to snag a spot near the outlets, as this place gets crowded during peak hours.
Best for: Study and Relaxation
Location: 125 John St., Downtown Toronto
Dark Horse Espresso Bar has several locations, but the one in Downtown Toronto is especially popular. The cafe’s spacious, open layout and long communal tables are ideal for students or professionals looking to set up and get work done.
Aesthetics: Classic and chic, with a sophisticated old-world charm.
Coffee Quality: Their espresso drinks are consistently smooth, and their cold brew is highly recommended.
Aesthetics: Minimalist and modern with plenty of natural light, creating a clean, calming atmosphere.
Pricing: Expect to pay between $4-6 per drink.
Pro Tip: Visit the Queen Street West location for a quieter atmosphere and fewer distractions.
Best for: Coffee Enthusiasts and Specialty Coffee Lovers
Location: 1208 Yonge St., Yonge Street
For those serious about coffee, Boxcar Social is a must-visit. Known for its focus on specialty coffee and its ever-changing selection of single-origin beans, this cafe offers a unique coffee-tasting experience. Boxcar Social allows customers to sample different brewing methods and beans, making it a haven for true coffee lovers.
Coffee Quality: Their selection of coffee from top coffee roasters around the world is unmatched. You can also try a tasting flight if you’re in the mood to experiment.
Aesthetics: A rustic-industrial design featuring exposed brick and wooden accents gives the space a cozy feel.
Pricing: $4.50-7 for premium coffee drinks.
Pro Tip: Weekends are the best time to enjoy their coffee tasting flights
Best for: Aesthetic Ambiance and Unique Flavors
Location: 28 Kensington Ave., Kensington Market
Nestled in Kensington Market, FIKA Cafe is a hidden gem that stands out for its aesthetic charm and cozy atmosphere. The Scandinavian-inspired decor, complete with a book wall, offers a calm and serene environment, perfect for taking a break from the city’s hustle.
Coffee Quality: FIKA offers a variety of coffee options and unique specialty drinks like their signature lavender latte. They also serve gluten-free snacks, making it accessible to more visitors.
Aesthetics: One of the most beautifully designed cafes in Toronto, featuring clean lines and a peaceful vibe.
Pricing: Drinks range from $4-6.
Pro Tip: Their gluten-free snacks pair wonderfully with their lattes, so be sure to grab one!
Sorry Coffee Co.
Best for: Aesthetic Vibes and Quick Stops
Location: 102 Bloor St. W., Yorkville
Sorry Coffee Co. is small but stylish, perfect for a quick coffee run or a brief meet-up with friends. Located in the upscale Yorkville neighborhood, it’s known for its minimalist design and high-quality espresso-based drinks.
Coffee Quality: They serve a carefully curated selection of espresso drinks and a small menu of specialty coffee options.
Aesthetics: The cafe’s bright, modern interior makes it a great spot for Instagram photos.
Pricing: Expect to pay around $3.50-6 per drink.
Pro Tip: Since it’s a smaller space, it’s better suited for quick visits than long study sessions.