I’m pretty sure that coffee is necessary to live, maybe tied with water and air. Coffee is what helps you brave that one coworker every morning, and if you rely on Starbucks to keep this affair alive, then you are missing out on some of the city’s best cafes.
Coffee has a huge scene in Toronto. If you want the quality of the downtown shops but not exactly the crowd, fret not; because we’ve compiled a list of amazing cafes in Toronto that aren’t in the downtown core.
READ MORE: Best Coffee Shops In Toronto
Hailed Coffee
Where: Riverdale
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With two locations in Riverdale and College Park, this chic coffee shop serves artisan drinks and is inspired by rich Arabic culture.
Louie Craft Coffee
Where: Liberty Village
@eric_forsythI’ve become sentimental towards the name Louie ever since the birth of the newest royal family member, but this Liberty Village gem has a lot more to offer than just a cool name.
HOM Cafe
Where: Yorkville
@homcafetorontoWhile this coffee shop has that European-esque touch, you don't actually have to trek far to find it. A Yorkville gem, HOM Cafe offers anything from espresso to tea, along with an all-day breakfast.
Crafted By Te Aro
Where: Ossington
@lelabomagAnother gem by Pilot Coffee Roasters, Crafted Coffee is just as delicious as it’s sister locations, and perhaps even more stylish.
Hale Coffee
Where: Junction Triangle
@makiharu0312What’s up, Dupont Street?! Hale Coffee is a coffee shop in the Junction Triangle, with a menu ranging from hot beverages to tasty treats.
Rooster Coffee House
Where: Riverdale
@dimisimtiRooster Coffee House has three locations, but the light-filled shop across from Riverdale Park is perhaps a favourite. Away from the hustle of downtown, this cafe is decorated with tiny chandeliers and has amazing views of the park.
Jacked Up Coffee
Where: Yorkville
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This adorable vintage truck isn’t just for the perfect photo-op, but also for some perfect coffee. Spotted in Yorkville and Liberty Village, this one is definitely worth trekking across town for.
Strangelove Coffee
Where: Rosedale
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Okay, so this may be cheating since Strangelove has two locations downtown, though their Rosedale one is just as legit and delicious. A multi-roaster cafe, the menu at Strangelove changes weekly.
Reunion Island Coffee Bar
Where: Roncesvalles Village
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In the West End of things, we’ve got Reunion Island. At this white-tiled cafe, java drinks and some light snacks are on their epic menu; and once you're finished at the shop, you can then take an afternoon stroll to nearby High Park.
Mercat Del Carmen
Where: Queen West
@mercuryyukiHalf marketplace and half coffee shop, this Queen Street West gem allows you to enjoy fresh treats and drinks inside the comfort of their chic location.
Sam James Coffee Bar
Where: Queen West
@k.delacThere’s quite a few locations of Sam James, but the one near Trinity Bellwoods Park is one of those places that you wouldn’t really take a second glance at when passing. Once you make your way inside though, there’s no way you’ll ever forget this place.
Odin Cafe + Bar
Where: Corktown
@leti.eatCome in for the coffee, but stay for the stunning interior. At Odin, a local Corktown favourite, you will find the perfect balance of delicious coffee along with an industrial-chic atmosphere.
Balzac's Powerhouse
Where: Davenport Village
@kellyisnotlostOkay, so Balzac’s has quite a few locations in Toronto, but have you ever been to their powerhouse location? Based in Davenport Village, Balzac’s Powerhouse uses a custom-painted espresso machine to make your always-good coffee.