I love the Kensington Market area in Toronto. Not long ago, I was in the ‘hood’ and passed by a cafe whose store front caught my attention as I saw this big orange “Coffee Shop” sign and I thought how funny they named themselves. Only when I looked closer to realize it’s actually called Hopper Coffee. From the outside looking in, its calm and minimalist interior was very appealing to me. It was late in the afternoon, hence I didn’t go in to try out their goodies. But nevertheless, I made a mental note to return one a.m. (Yeah, I only drink caffeinated drink bright and early :p).
A few days had passed and I couldn’t get this cafe out of my head. So, I decided to head downtown yesterday morning to try out this cafe. And, oh boy, I think I have found the one ... the one and only one cafe that has it all.
So, what do I like about this cafe and how is it different from the million cafes in t-dot? I will list all my reasons below, in no particular order.
The almond milk latte I ordered was on point - it’s light and velvety, with plenty of depth of flavour and perfect temperature. And to top it off, look at that nice-looking latte art?! We know creating latte art is trickier with almond milk. So, they serve a ‘mean’ cup of latte!
I can appreciate a light, fluffy and buttery almond croissant - I have no idea where they get the bakery from. But oh boy oh boy, the croissant I had was so delicious. Having tried making croissant from scratch, I know first hand how difficult it is to master the art of croissant making as it takes time and technique. So, I appreciate they know how to pick the right bakery to work with.
- The art, the decor and the calming and eccentric factors - I am no artist, nor do I know much about art … but I do have a little side hobby of mine to draw and I can appreciate how artwork can make a statement in a room. I love the art in this cafe because it was tastefully done, not too loud but enough to make a statement. Really, it does not have that pretentious feeling and it was done right. The huge window looks out onto the bustle of College street, the long seating area along the wall and the cutest little Campbell Soup tables, all give the cafe a nice, non-clutter and community feeling. I can imagine myself sitting there and chatting up a storm with my friends.
The gentleman who made my latte has to be the coolest - His attention to details, friendly and lay-back attitude were all so welcoming. Obviously, from the latte he made, I know that he knows his stuff and that he takes this 'task' seriously. All I am saying is that he reminds me of the Japanese way of doing things - attention to details and respect for the task we do.
The patrons and the neighbourhood are the coolest too - I am normally very quiet but, somehow, the lay back and chill atmosphere made me comfortable enough to chat with another patron about Toronto school, education and learning french. How cool was that?! Later, another patron walked in and started the funniest conversation with the barista about jerk chicken joints in Toronto. Their conversation was so funny and authentic that I ended up laughing with them (but I was not in the conversation, lol). The cafe is so close to Kensington Market and I know which cafe I would frequent from now on!
All in all, I have no hesitation to give Hopper Coffee an A+ - A truly beautiful place with a beautiful vibe along with awesome peeps - I will be back!
