Let's face it: when this city gets hot, it's steamy. For those of us who can't make it through the day without a jolt or four, it's the time of year to trade in strong black coffee for something a little cooler. Trouble is, it's not always easy to get a cold coffee that delivers on taste. Luckily, these spots have you covered. Whether you're into cold brew or iced coffee, here's where to find your summer caffeine boost.
Walk into de Mello Palheta, and the first thing you notice is kit. There's more equipment in play than a mad scientist's laboratory, and all of it has a purpose. One of the outcomes? Their cold brew coffee, available on tap or by the bottle. Since these guys even roast their own beans—and those of select coffee havens around town—it should come as no surprise that they also make their own cold brew, too. If that's a trend you're still not on board with, stick to the traditional iced lattes and cappuccinos. These guys treat coffee as both an art and a science, so you can trust that they get how to preserve the integrity of your favourite drink once ice comes into play.
Te Aro, the Leslieville cafe from Pilot Coffee Roasters, is one of Toronto's hidden gems. That's certainly how it feels when you approach the unassuming spot: it's set back from the hustle and bustle of Queen Street, and the ivy-strewn walls that flank the sidewalk-style patio blend seamlessly with the floral shop next door. Inside, however, there's no mistaking this for anything other than a serious coffee shop. Like de Mello Palheta, they roast their own beans and make their own cold brew (available on tap and by the bottle). It's served hipster style: in a petite glass jam jar, so you can watch the coffee's beautiful settle—like a cream ale, but infinitely more daytime appropriate. (On weekdays, at least...)
In Sweden, fika is both a noun and a verb. In the afternoon, you fika, or take a break for coffee and cake. But fika also refers to the goodies you eat and drink, or to the break itself. It's kind of like brunch in English, only the edible components are arguably even better, depending who you ask. Toronto may be a brunch-crazed town, but we've accepted FIKA Cafe with open arms. One of the favourite offerings? Their iced coffee, which was named the world's best by Conde Nast Traveler in 2013. (No pressure, right?) Fact is, they may have been on to something. The signature drink is a luscious blend of espresso and milk, spiked with cardamom bitters and a little simple syrup, plus a garnish of fresh mint taken from the cafe's garden. So...care to fika?
This Leslieville cafe-cum-comic book shop is a nerdgasm waiting to happen. Naturally, the decor and carefully curated shelves are a draw for comic lovers, but the shop is equally devoted to coffee geekery. Their warm weather coffees include the usual suspects (think iced lattes and Americanos), plus a house-made cold brew. How's this for a labour of love: they slow-steep the cold brew for 14 hours, resulting in a smooth and flavourful coffee served over ice. A side note for anyone trying to limit their caffeine intake: The Sidekick also offers slow-steeped herbal iced teas.
Quantum is a favourite downtown spot among fashionable freelancers, who appreciate the efficient ordering system (order on one side, grab your drink on the other) and the sun-filled back room (tables for days). Whether you're a cold brew convert or prefer the coffee classics (lattes, cappuccinos) served over ice, the offerings here are served up strong enough to give you a proper jolt. Word to the wise: the ample natural lighting makes this place especially popular during summertime, so try to scout out a table before you place your order if your heart is set on sitting down.
Hot Black is Queen Street's coolest new coffee spot. It's a stone's throw from Osgoode subway station, meaning you can grab one of their cold, smooth iced lattes to combat the commuter crowds on your way home. (Though it's worth noting that you could also pull up a seat and stay for a glass of wine...) Hot Black may look like another slick, hyper-stylish hipster spot, but they take the coffee business very seriously. Every element of production is strictly controlled, and even if you're not a coffee snob, you'll absolutely taste the difference.
