What are some good outdoor cafés in Toronto?

June 19, 2013 4:23 PM

I'm looking for a place where I can grab a coffee and read a book preferably outside. I live in the St. Lawrence Market area of the city, so someplace around there would be preferred.

There are a couple of Starbucks but they have really limited seating. There is Betty's but I don't think they'd like me having a coffee on their busy patio (plus it would get pretty loud -- but I do love it there when I want to socialize). Any ideas?

posted by jmmpangaea to Food & Drink (5 answers total)

Moonbean in Kensington has a big patio and usually lots of space.

Jimmy's on Portland is a bit smaller but closer to your locale.
posted by Paper rabies at 4:37 PM on June 19, 2013

Best answer: If you're willing to head a bit east, there's Balzac's in the Distillery District. You could also grab something at St. Lawrence Market and sit outside at the tables or benches that wrap around the upper level. It's crazy on Saturday and closed Sunday & Monday, but is good during the rest of the week.
posted by scrute at 5:03 PM on June 19, 2013 [1 favorite]

Best answer: Keeffaa Coffee, just east of Queen and Parliament, is a bit further away, but they do have a small cute patio in back. Wireless internet, coffee, food and friendly owners.
posted by pjenks at 5:09 PM on June 19, 2013

Previously.

When I worked around there, I'd go to St. James Park. What about just grabbing a coffee and sitting in Market Lane? Or David Crombie Park? (It's tiny and perfect!)

After the lunch rush, it's indoors, but Morning Glory might be nice. Or a counter seat at the George Street Diner?
posted by peagood at 5:57 PM on June 19, 2013

Response by poster: Thanks, those are all great, I appreciate it.
posted by jmmpangaea at 6:21 PM on June 19, 2013