Cold beer, gelato, summer, fine art.
![Zomato]( "Recensione")
Francophone espresso. Espresso Etc. is a pleasant place to pop in for a cafe and patisserie when you're in the Art Gallery of Ontario or Chinatown district. One way that I like to test a place's coffee-making chops is to order a drink with only a little milk. Lets the coffee quality (or lack thereof) shine through. The macchiato I had was not as strong as what is generally served in Italy, and I've had some that were "plus forte" en France. But it was still strong and flavourful enough to get me over my jet lag and heat exhaustion from an outbreak of 32+ degree weather in the Big T.O. I had a "pastel di nata" pastry, an eggy custard in a small pastry shell, that seemed more Portugese than French. I give it credit for appearing home-made. Espresso Etc. has a decent selection of other pastries and savory food too. I know it's not odd to hear counter help speaking Francais in Toronto (less common in British Columbia) but I enjoyed the experience, and the French-language radio statio in the background too.
this cafe is right across from the AGO and a great place to recharge your batteries after a visit to the gallery! I f the weather is right sit outside, there is enough room so you are not tripping over the other diners but still close enough to strike up impromptu conversations with other AGO visitors if you want to. The street ambience is great and the traffic noise doesn't intrude too much. The staff are friendly, the owner even gave my daughter a free Madeleine when she inquired about what they were. We were a group of 4 and all had panini and salads which were freshly made and delicious. There are several vegetarian options and the coffees are delicious!
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