Whether you’re looking for a midday pick-me-up or searching for your next favourite cafe, Toronto’s Riverside has a vibrant community of local businesses that serve great coffee.
In celebration of National Coffee Day, check out these coffee shops and restaurants in the neighbourhood for your next caffeine fix:
Photo credit: Amber Kitchen and Coffee
Amber Kitchen and Coffee (@amberkitchento)
Address: 4 Boulton Ave
Amber has become a brunch hot spot for its delicious Middle Eastern menu but don’t miss out on the coffee. Pair your beverage with a freshly baked pastry or two from the glass display — the Chocolate Babka is a must-try!
Photo credit: Jimmy’s Coffee
Jimmy’s Coffee (@jimmys_coffee)
Address: 806 Queen St E
Jimmy’s Riverside location is beloved for its comforting drinks, cozy interiors and hidden back patio. For those who like their coffee on the sweet, creamy side, Jimmy’s Very Own — a latte with luscious caramel swirls — will hit the spot.
Photo credit: Glass House Garden Centre and Cafe
Glass House Garden Centre and Cafe (@glasshousecafe.to)
Address: 771 Queen St E
Aside from plants and gardening supplies, the Glass House Garden Centre and Cafe also offers espresso-based drinks that you can enjoy on the dog-friendly patio. Gelato by the scoop is available at the cafe too if you fancy a cold treat and try their new Sorrel tea.
BLOG: Hidden Gems of Riverside: Local Spots Worth the Detour
Photo credit: Isle of Coffee
Isle of Coffee (@isleofcoffee_to)
Address: 745 Queen St E
Looking for the perfect drink for fall? Try Isle of Coffee’s Tahini Maple Latte. Luckily, it’s a permanent item on the menu so you can enjoy it any time of the year! If you haven’t already, you have to try the cafe’s madeleines and Basque cheesecake too.
Photo credit: Lamoon Thai Kitchen & Coffee
Lamoon Thai Kitchen & Coffee (@lamoon.to)
Address: 730 Queen St E
Aside from delicious Thai dishes, Lamoon also has a wide selection of drinks. You can’t go wrong with the classic Thai Iced Coffee but if you’re feeling adventurous, try the Dirty Thai Tea, which is Thai iced tea with a shot of espresso.
Photo credit: Riverside BIA
Aura (@auratoronto)
Address: 686 Queen St E
In case you didn’t know, cocktail bar Aura has started operating as a cafe from 7am-3pm daily, which means during the day, you can get coffee, enjoy it on the beautiful back patio, and maybe do some work on your laptop or read a book.
Photo credit: Dark Horse Espresso Bar
Dark Horse Espresso Bar (@darkhorsecafe)
Address: 630 Queen St E
Aside from good coffee and delicious pastries, Dark Horse warrants a regular visit because of its seasonal offerings. This fall, they have the Tiramuccino, a drink-meets-dessert concoction for the coffee lovers. If you’re team matcha, there’s also the Pumpkin Honeycomb Matcha.
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