Moonbean Cafe Brings the World to T.O.

If there's one topic we've got covered around here, it's caffeine. From the hardcore espresso drinkers to fluff-n-whip style hot chocolateers, fair trade bean pickers to pure black tea steepers, it seems every blogTO'er has got an opinon on where to find the best fix.

Still, every time I walk into Moonbean Cafe in Kensington I realize there is yet another spot that must be added to the list.

At Moonbean, it would appear that regardless of which category your fix falls into, they've got it covered.

Jars of java beans from across the globe line the walls so you can buy bulk or try one of the fresh daily brews.

By the entrance, the tea shelf is so packed with jars of loose teas (and blooming flowers!) that the selection extends out onto the coffee shelf and along counter behind you.

Hot chocolate? Latte? Just ask the barista behind the bar -- if you aren't too distracted by the fresh baked goodies that stand between you and her.

It's actually a bit of an insane experience but one that keeps me coming back... yet not for my usual black coffee...

'Cause of this cafe, I went from hardly ever drinking tea to now dropping by a few times a week to get a big cup of one of their many teas.

It started off with the vanilla green (surpringly good) and now I keep finding other gems while searching the shelves for it. The latest find was strawberry green.. found while casting aside an Earl Grey green (too hardcore for me). I wasn't sure about it at first, but once I'd popped open the jar, the aroma had me hooked.

If it's your first time there for take-out, here's a quick guide: Pick a cup, pick a jar of tea leaves, then take 'em both to the counter. They'll take care of the rest.

There is one area where Moonbean could improve though: While they make nice hand-warmers, let's lose the styrofoam cups!

Moonbean Cafe - 30 St. Andrew Street - Open 7 days a week.