When you’re talking about coffee in west end Toronto, there are many neighbourhoods that come to mind. One in particular, however, always seems to be a mainstay in the debate of which neighbourhood is best.
Whether you’re a lover of lattes or an espresso enthusiast, the selection of high-quality coffee (and of course, coffee shops) in Roncesvalles is hard to beat. While we’re not choosing favourites when it comes to which neighbourhood makes the best cup of Joe, we are choosing our top picks in the conversation of which shops in Roncy we most prefer.
So, whether you agree with us or not, here’s our two cents on which are the best cafes in Roncesvalles Village.
Cherry Bomb Coffee
Located right down near the southern end of the vibrant Roncesvalles strip at 79 Roncesvalles Avenue, Cherry Bomb Coffee is undebatably one of the neighbourhood’s most popular cafes. Just walk by early in the morning — any morning, for that matter — and take a peek at the lengthy line of waiting patrons for proof.
Cherry Bomb’s motto “We love what we brew” is certainly exemplified in their delicious coffee, but we’d be remiss not to mention their spectacular baked goods as well. In fact, it’s rare not to see one of those early morning customers leave Cherry Bomb without one of their famous freshly-baked Croissants in hand.
Be warned though, the best of their bakery is often in short supply due to their high demand. To ensure you don’t miss out on the pastry action, don’t wait too long to stop by after they open their doors bright and early at 7:30 a.m. (or 8 a.m. on weekends).
I DEAL Coffee
While they currently operate out of three different locations across the city, I DEAL Coffee is far from a franchise coffee shop. Each with its own unique feel and charm, our favourite spot is the Roncesvalles shop.
Located at 221 Sorauren Avenue, just one street east of the perpetually busy Roncesvalles Avenue, I DEAL Coffee is neatly tucked away among the wholesome residential sidestreets of this energetic, family-friendly community.
And, just steps away from scenic surroundings like Charles G. Williams Park and Sorauren Avenue Park — two of the neighbourhood’s favourite green spaces — you can just as happily take your coffee to go or sit out front on I DEAL’s cozy little patio.
Open from 8 a.m. every day of the week, you owe it to yourself to try I DEAL at least once, even though we’re quite sure you’ll be back for more.
Lit Espresso Bar
Head back over to Roncesvalles Avenue and stop by number 221 to pay Lit Espresso Bar, yet another fantastic local cafe, a worthwhile visit. As you can derive from their name, Lit’s espresso is on another level.
Whether you prefer it straight up, in a double shot, or mixed in with your choice of milk or plant-based alternative, Lit Espresso Bar is more than ready to make your favourite caffeinated drink whenever you’re next in need.
However, one look at Lit’s impressive Instagram page and you’ll notice that this ingenious Roncy spot does a lot more than just coffee. If you’ve got a sweet tooth, you might be in serious trouble stopping by Lit, as their diverse and delectable range of pastries and baked goods will be too hard to turn down.
Between their scones, buns, croissants, pies, and even pizza (from a genuine wood-fired pizza oven, no less), Lit evidently has a team of bakers that know their stuff. Open every day 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., stop by Lit whenever you next get the chance — it’s got all the makings of your next favourite pick-me-up place written all over it.
AM Coffee Studio
Although AM Coffee Studio might be situated up in the northern end of Roncesvalles at 2233 Dundas St West, we’re confident you’ll find it’s well worth the walk up Roncy towards Bloor Street.
While you can get one of Roncesvalles’ best-tasting coffees here, this quirky little cafe does a whole lot more than just pour shots of espresso. Part cafe and bakery, part flower shop, and part yoga studio, AM Coffee is fully focused on creating a space that supports the happiness and wellbeing of their community.
Quite unique in concept, AM Coffee Studio has quickly become one of the area’s most celebrated small businesses, offering a place for those who want to eat well, feel good, and drink great coffee a friendly and supportive place to do so. Whether yoga’s your thing or not, make sure you stop by to try one of their satisfying coffees.
Are you interested in learning more about life in Roncesvalles? Our team of knowledgeable west end real estate professionals can let you in on a lot more than just the coffee scene. Learn all about what Roncy and the west end has to offer by contacting us here.
