Stir up your daily grind.
I am in a long-term relationship with coffee. It’s one constant in my life that has never let me down (except for the burnt tongue here and there, but all is forgiven). With all the coffee shops around Toronto, it’s quite easy to get that caffeine fix no matter where you are, but what about around campus? It’s convenient to pop into Tim’s or grab a cup from the Caf, but it’s nice to venture off campus and try someplace new for a superior cuppa joe. Whether you’re a latte lover or all about classic drip, make sure to check out one of these local spots around campus for your next coffee break!
Black Goat Café
Just a few short blocks from campus is Black Goat Café, named after the animal that originally discovered coffee shrubs (thank you SO much, black goats). With fair-trade organic coffee beans, treats baked in-house, and specialty drinks like Vietnamese cafe sua da, you’re sure to find the perfect fix for your craving. If you’re looking to grab a bite, you can pick up one of their salads or sandwiches, like the homemade pulled pork sandwich, all for under $7!
DeCourses Café
Located right across from the Lakeshore Residence, you don’t have to go far to get your morning coffee from DeCourses Café. DeCourses has all your favourites, along with some Insta-worthy lattes like the gothic latte made with activated charcoal. More than just coffee, you can find bubble tea, smoothies, and a full brunch menu! If you’re a savoury breakfast person, try the croissant benny or avocado toast, and if you’re more into the sweet stuff you can take your pick from the long list of waffles and crepes. No time to stay? Grab a fresh baked muffin or croissant from their counter with your coffee to go!
The Sydney Grind
Australia’s coffee scene has become well known for their amazing quality and taste so you can expect nothing less from this taste of Sydney in Mimico. Just turning a year old, The Sydney Grind offers all your favourite variations of espresso, while also offering Pluck Tea and cold-pressed juice from Village Juicery. Their baked goods are definitely NOT to be missed – you can get a taste of down-under with their Hummingbirds and Fairy Bread, along with the usual favourites like super flaky croissants and gooey cookies. Have dietary restrictions? You’re covered here, with gluten-free treats and a wide variety of dairy-free milk to choose from! PS – Did I mention they were named one of Toronto’s best new cafés by BlogTO?
The Big Guy’s Little Coffee Shop
This cozy little coffee spot is just East of Islington, and neighbour to an apothecary counter with healing services – to help you unwind when the caffeine jitters kick in. Here you can find organic, fair-trade coffee and tea at a reasonable price, and without attitude. As the name suggests, it’s not a huge spot, but if you’re lucky enough to grab a seat at the communal table you’ll feel right at home. There’s a variety of treats to pick from at the counter, along with healthy snacks from the Healing Muse, and homemade soup in the colder months. They even host a comedy night on Mondays if you want to show off your best dad jokes! With all drinks under $4.50, this is sure to become a student favourite.
The Happy Bakers
Once you visit and grab a scone or square with your coffee, you’ll be happy too. A 15-minute walk from campus, The Happy Bakers serves up fair-trade, organic coffee from Birds and Beans, along with cookies, scones, squares, pies… you name it. You can also grab something for lunch here, with options like savoury pies and scones, sandwiches, and mac n’ cheese on the menu. If you suffer from allergies or food intolerances, they also stock Buddha Belly Bakery products that are allergen-friendly, gluten-free and vegan! You can also catch the Happy Bakers at Farmer’s Markets in the summer, but their Lakeshore location is the perfect spot to people-watch or catch up with friends over a latte (or two).
Looking for more cute cafés to discover? Check out these 5 under-the-radar coffee spots across Toronto!
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