Cafes
The One In The Only
The One In The Only is pretty much one of the only spots on the Danforth where a bean lover can find some espresso (the big guys holding down the fort: to the east is Niche, and to the west is Broadview Espresso). It's also directly connected to neighbourhood favourite bar The Only (peekaboo! through the entry in the back). How clever the name! I chuckle as I walk in on a sunny Saturday. How cozy the space! I nod approvingly as I fall into an armchair in direct sunlight.
The menu is small and straightforward - after all, this little getaway was opened to provide quality espresso to the area (Intelligentsia beans). The Only next door (same owner) already serves its food purpose - brunch, beer, lunch, beer - so TOITO focuses on what it hopes to do best. There are a few baked goods available, all made in house. I settle in with a cappuccino and banana kiwi muffin, although the Tea In The Sahara choices look very tasty.
The Only's little (but more sophisticated) brother has been open since about October and will soon be opening up a patio in the back. Bonus: they just got licensed so they can offer beer as well. I dare someone to go in one afternoon and drink a straight espresso followed by a beer and then repeat 3 times. No, I don't. What would happen if you did that?! I'm scared.
The One In the Only is a great addition to the Danforth, and will surely boom as it gets warmer and the patio opens. Where it really shines is in the welcoming atmosphere, which feels almost pub-like. Big armchairs, couches and tables; a little dark beyond the window and very conducive to spending a few hours surfing free wi-fi. Dig the decor, a lot of which was purchased in the Sam the Record Man auction (bar and mirror from the Classical department). AND, how many cafes are actually open til 10pm?! Brownie points, guys.
Hours:
6am-10pm, 7 Days/Week
Discussion
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p.s. i don't know any bartender at any bar or tavern who would dare drink on the job. we swear a solemn oath to uphold the sanctity of sobriety to the LCBO when we assume our roles.
Pros: the chantilly grey tea I had was really very tasty. Hubby liked his coffee and the chairs were comfy.
Cons: strollers taking up a LOT of space in what is quite a small room. The floor was seriously dusty - we started feeling itchy from watching dust bunnies running to and fro every time someone walking by us caused a bit of a breeze. And the guy behind the counter needs to learn the concept of serving (or at least acknowledging) more than one person at a time - will prevent line buildup and grumbling.
Great environment, avoids the pretentiousness of many similar establishments, due in large part to the diverse clientele at the bar next door. Don't be fooled however. Lots of flannel, Big Carrot totebags and laptop users taking advantage of the ample outlets.
I would avoid the drip coffee at 1.50 as they put a pinch of cinnamon in the batch which I find overpowering. I think they would be best just to make a standard brew.
The two pasteries I've had were fresh and tasty, and the ceramic water jug with complimentary glasses at the sugar station were a nice touch.