Dark Horse Espresso Bar 215 Spadina Avenue

By: Sofia Reive

Two things I know to be true: a good latté needs good foam, and people tip more if you make them laugh. Dark Horse staff have also grasped these fundamental truths; it is one of those rare places where everyone leaves happy.

Offering bold, satisfying drinks, beautifully crafted foam, and a tempting complement of baking, Dark Horse delivers. You will pay nearly five dollars for a latté – well worth it – and once up at the cash, you are greeted by their clever tip jar. The bowl is always decorated with a quirky request for spare change.

On Spadina, South of Dundas, Dark Horse provides a needed reprieve between Chinatown’s commercial bustle and the Harbourfront’s glassy impersonality. Diverse clientèle include students nestled with urban professionals, and yummy mummies next to local cops. The coffeeshop is equipped with floor to ceiling windows and communal tables with centrepieces designed by a local florist. Brick walls display the canvasses of Toronto artist Matt Durant: an opportunity to view his captivating multimedia pieces at no charge.

In keeping with their  ̈great things for free ̈ approach, the shop offers free WiFi. Electrical outlets, however, are taped over, in an effort to discourage students from colonizing the space.

Nonetheless, Dark Horse is a unique coffee hideaway, combining delicious drink, tasty fare and understated décor with a laid back atmosphere. It’s a hard balance to strike, and they have succeeded.

Dark Horse Virgin? Bring: a charged laptop and cash or debit. They don’t accept credit. Get: The caramel banana bread and a drink of your choice. Stay: As long as you like from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 at night.

Two other locations:

684 Queen Street West

682 Queen Street East