Golden Mint Cafe

GOLDEN MINT CAFE

439 Yonge Street

www.goldenmint.com

Ordered: double espresso - $2.63 tax incl.

My first impression was the emphasis on gourmet treats - display cases hold hand-dipped caramel apples laden with confections as well as many varieties of tasty-looking chocolates. This was nice to see, but I'm only here for one thing - the COFFEE!!

Centre-stage on the counter is a beautiful all brass espresso machine - it was difficult for me to tell if this is actually an old piece of equipment. I suspect it's made to look old-fashioned because I would have expected the barista to pull on a handle to facilitate 'pulling' the espresso shots - which she did not do. I ordered up my double espresso and was provided with a bowl of raw sugar to add to my dark gold. The espresso taste was good and it certainly had the 'punch' I needed.

Overall, I enjoyed going to this cafe, it's quaint with its limited seating. GM is located directly across from a Tim Hortons and Starbucks (the enemy!) at the busy intersection of Yonge & College Streets. I especially like that they have a massive selection of loose tea - all available for purchase by weight. The gourmet treats and awesome tea selection make this place stand out from its competitors. The staff was very friendly as well.

I'd return!

Update: this one is NOT independent like I previously thought, so I don't like it as much now that I know it's a franchise. ;(

Jet Fuel!

JET FUEL

519 Parliament Street

Ordered: latte - $3 tax incl.

I finally had the opportunity to get over to this Cabbagetown coffee destination and boy, I was not disappointed!

Now THIS is what I expect a coffee bar to be like. You walk in and immediately in view is the large shining espresso machine, which is bubbling out what seems like endless shots of the caramel-sweet good stuff. It's a tight space, but I notice there is additional seating at the back of the place.

We make our way to the end of the long line up that is outlining the bar counter and quickly notice that there is no menu board to be found. We learn from the lady in front of us that this is because the offerings are simple: espresso, latte or cappuccino.

The line moves fast, so we didn't wait long. Our lattes came in big glasses and were only a couple bucks each - sweet! By default they were made with whole milk and were perfect. We grabbed seats and admired the local art on the walls. The re-issued bar stools by the front windows pay testament to the retro feel of the place this as they appear to be from many decades past.

I wanted to buy some coffee to go, but I'm not sure if they sell their beans - will check next time there.