When it comes to everyone’s favourite morning staple, a hot cup of coffee, sometimes making it yourself just doesn’t cut it. Luckily, living in the GTA means you’re always steps away from the region’s best brew offerings. From local shops to hole-in-the-wall cafes, there’s never a shortage of new spots to explore. To satisfy your coffee craving, explore a few of these GTA coffee shops before you embark on your morning commute.
Balzac’s Coffee
43 Hanna Ave #123, Toronto, ON
Inspired by Parisian cafes, Balzac’s Coffee infuses that same sophisticated flair into their drinks. You’ll be hard-pressed to find someone who isn’t a fan of Balzac’s, as they’ve grown a loyal following across Ontario, and for good reason. With the option to purchase a bag of their special blend to take with you, their coffee has now become a staple in many Torontonian’s morning routine.
Pilot Coffee Roasters
65 Front St W, Toronto, ON
Pilot Coffee Roasters was introduced to Toronto’s local coffee scene in 2009, with the goal of bringing specialty coffee to the city. Today, you can grab your morning cup of coffee at any of their multiple locations across Toronto. Pilot Coffee Roasters are also passionate about ethical and sustainable production throughout their supply chain, ensuring you get the best brew every time.
Sud Forno
132 Yonge St, Toronto, ON
If you’re in search of a bit of Italian flair, look no further than Sud Forno. Located in a historic building in the heart of the financial district, Sud Forno offers a unique approach to dining. Grab your coffee and a small bite to eat at their cafeteria-style main level, or take a few steps upstairs to enjoy an elegant culinary experience.
Dineen Coffee
140 Yonge St, Toronto, ON
With its prime location right on the intersection of Yonge and Temperance Street, Dineen Coffee has cemented itself as one of the city’s go-to spots for all things espresso. A little known fact is that this cafe was built in the historic Dineen Building, which once housed W & F Dineen Co., a company who originally made fur clothing. This building is now one of the oldest structures in Toronto, and is listed as a Toronto Heritage Property.
Cocoon Coffee
855 Wilson Ave, North York, ON
Cocoon Coffee is the epitome of cozy, with an inviting interior and freshly-baked sweet treats for you to indulge in. Opened in 2018 by husband and wife duo, Emma and Andy Chan, Cocoon Coffee offers locals a quiet spot amidst the hustle and bustle of Yorkdale Mall. Here, you’ll be able to try one of their many unique drinks (like their iced dalgona latte) while their curated playlist of jazzy tunes echoes softly in the background.
Coffee shops are a staple in any community, and you often can’t go more than a couple steps before passing one by. If you’d like to learn even more ways to support and shop local, explore our guide for a few ideas.
Images courtesy of: Chad Roberts Design (Balzac’s Coffee); Yelp (Pilot Coffee Roasters); Terroni (Sud Forno); Dineen Coffee (Dineen Coffee); BlogTO (Cocoon Coffee).