Family behind a Scarborough institution opening something new in Toronto
The family behind a beloved Scarborough institution is branching out with a new concept that's coming soon to Toronto.
When a craving for a classic Filipino breakfast hits in Toronto, Scarborough's Coffee In is the first—and, dare I say, best? — line of defence.
Operated out of the shell of a Lawrence East coffee shop by the Taninas family for the past 20 years, the restaurant has become Toronto's go-to spot for Filipino La Paz Botchoy and a series of other Filipino comfort foods and, notably, not coffee.
The confusion is understandable, of course, but Coffee In is no coffee shop. Perhaps prompted by the endless assumptions that their restaurant is a cafe, the family behind Coffee In is now gearing up to open one.
Expected to open in early 2027, Almusal, the latest venture from the Taninas family, sees the kids take the reins, opening what co-owner Erika Taninas describes as a "modern, warm, and inviting neighbourhood cafe [with] coffee drinks, matcha, all-day brunch, and lunch options."
"Our vision is to create more than just a place to grab coffee or enjoy a meal. We want it to be a space where people can slow down, connect, and feel at home. Whether it's a quick morning coffee, a weekend brunch with friends, or a family gathering, we hope Almusal becomes a familiar and welcoming part of people's everyday lives," Erika tells blogTO.
While Almusal comes with a considerable family history — and one that will be honoured with the new spot — Erika is quick to stress that Almusal will have its own identity, distinct from Coffee In.
"Opening Almusal is our way of carrying that legacy forward while bringing a new vision to life. We wanted to create something that reflects the next generation of our family, while staying connected to the roots that brought us here," Erika explains.
That'll manifest in a refreshed, modern restaurant that serves as the neighbourhood's "new third space," with tasty eats and, mercifully, caffeine abounding.
The Almusal team isn't ready to share where or when the cafe will open, but you can keep up with the latest updates by following Almusal on social media.
Hector Vasquez
