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Contra Café, located at 1028 Shaw St in Toronto, ON, is more than just a cozy spot for coffee and pastries; it plays a vital role in the Old Toronto community. This café embraces its local roots by sourcing ingredients from nearby farms and collaborating with local artists, making it a hub for creativity and connection. The inviting atmosphere encourages patrons to linger, fostering a sense of belonging among neighbors and visitors alike.

Collaboration with local bakeries for fresh pastries.

Partnerships with nearby farms for seasonal produce.

Support for local artists through art displays.

Collaboration with local schools for educational programs.

Contra Café regularly hosts events that bring the community together, such as open mic nights and art showcases. These gatherings not only spotlight local talent but also create a warm and welcoming environment for patrons to connect over shared interests. The café’s commitment to fostering community spirit is evident in its calendar of events, which encourages participation from all walks of life.

At Contra Café, sustainability is a core value. The café implements eco-friendly practices, such as using biodegradable packaging and minimizing food waste. By prioritizing local sourcing, they not only support the economy but also reduce their carbon footprint. This commitment to ethical practices resonates with customers who appreciate the café's efforts to contribute positively to the environment.

"The coffee is superior; pastries are excellent. I would have the clementine cake every day of the week if I could!" - Cathy Martha, a regular patron who appreciates the cozy atmosphere and friendly staff. Such testimonials highlight the café's impact on its visitors, creating lasting memories and connections.

Whether you're a local or just visiting, Contra Café invites you to experience its warm ambiance and delightful offerings. Stop by for a cup of coffee, enjoy a pastry, and immerse yourself in the community spirit that defines this beloved café. Visit us at 1028 Shaw St, Toronto, ON, and become part of our story.

Founded with a vision to create a welcoming space for coffee lovers, Contra Café has become a beloved fixture in Old Toronto. Located at 1028 Shaw St, this café combines minimalist design with a chill vibe, offering a perfect backdrop for enjoying expertly crafted espresso drinks and delicious baked goods. The founders aimed to foster a community hub where locals could gather, relax, and enjoy quality coffee in a cozy atmosphere.

The café's name, 'Contra,' reflects a counter-culture ethos, emphasizing a commitment to quality over quantity. This philosophy resonates throughout the café's offerings, from their meticulously sourced coffee beans to their artisanal pastries.

The café's ambiance is enhanced by its friendly staff, who are dedicated to providing exceptional service, making every visit a memorable experience.

With a focus on sustainability and community, Contra Café has become a gathering place for locals and visitors alike, embodying the spirit of Toronto's vibrant café culture.

Espresso drinks, breakfast sandwiches & baked goods offered in a minimalist space with a chill vibe.

Opened in 2020, Contra Café quickly gained popularity for its quality coffee and inviting atmosphere.

Expanded outdoor seating in 2021 to accommodate more guests during the warmer months.

Recognized in local publications for its exceptional pastries and coffee quality.

Contra Café is deeply rooted in the Old Toronto community, reflecting the diverse culture and creativity of the neighborhood. The café has become a canvas for local artists, showcasing their work and fostering a sense of belonging among patrons.

The café's commitment to sourcing ingredients locally not only supports nearby businesses but also enhances the freshness of their offerings, making each visit a unique experience.

The founders of Contra Café are passionate individuals who believe in the power of community and quality coffee. Their dedication to creating a welcoming environment is evident in every aspect of the café, from the carefully curated menu to the friendly service.

The team, including skilled baristas and bakers, work tirelessly to ensure that each cup of coffee and pastry reflects their commitment to excellence.

As the café landscape evolves, Contra Café adapts by introducing new flavors and seasonal offerings, ensuring that it remains a relevant and exciting destination for coffee enthusiasts.

The café also embraces technology, offering online ordering and a loyalty program to enhance the customer experience.

Contra Café is more than just a coffee shop; it is a testament to the power of community and the joy of sharing quality experiences. As it continues to thrive, the café remains committed to its founding principles, ensuring that every visit is a celebration of great coffee and community spirit.

Whether you're stopping by for a quick coffee or a leisurely afternoon, Contra Café invites you to be part of its ongoing story in the heart of Toronto.

Located at 1028 Shaw St, Toronto, Contra Café is a cozy spot known for its exceptional espresso drinks, breakfast sandwiches, and delectable baked goods. This minimalist café offers a chill vibe, making it a perfect retreat for coffee enthusiasts and casual diners alike. With a strong community presence, it has become a beloved neighborhood hangout, inviting visitors to enjoy its inviting atmosphere and quality offerings.

Inviting ambiance with a minimalist design.

Contra Café is perfect for casual meet-ups, remote work sessions, or a quick coffee break. Its relaxed atmosphere attracts both locals and visitors looking for a cozy spot to unwind.

Takeout is available for those on the go.

The café is not reservable, so plan accordingly.

Contra Café stands out as a delightful spot in Toronto's Old Toronto neighborhood. With its focus on quality coffee and a welcoming atmosphere, it has earned a loyal following. Whether you're stopping by for a quick coffee or settling in for a leisurely brunch, this café promises a satisfying experience.

Contra Café in Toronto's Old Toronto Neighborhood.

Nestled at 1028 Shaw St, **Contra Café** offers a delightful escape for coffee aficionados and brunch lovers alike. With its minimalist design and chill vibe, this cozy café perfectly embodies the spirit of Toronto's vibrant food scene. Known for its top-notch espresso drinks and scrumptious baked goods, Contra Café has established itself as a beloved spot among locals.

The café is celebrated for its **breakfast sandwiches**, freshly brewed coffee, and a selection of pastries that include fan favorites like the clementine cake and cherry brioche. The ambiance is enhanced by soft music playing at just the right volume, making it an ideal spot for a quiet morning or an afternoon break. Outdoor seating is available, allowing guests to enjoy their treats in the fresh air during pleasant weather.

, including crowd-pleasers like clementine cake.

Visitors rave about the friendly staff and the inviting atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for both a quick coffee run or a leisurely brunch with friends. Whether you're craving a rich espresso or a light breakfast sandwich, Contra Café is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Toronto

North America

Canada

Located at 1028 Shaw St in Old Toronto, Contra Café is a cozy spot that embodies the essence of a neighborhood coffee shop. With a minimalist design and a chill vibe, it invites patrons to relax and enjoy high-quality espresso drinks and freshly baked goods. The café has gained a reputation for its superior coffee and delightful pastries, making it a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike. The inviting atmosphere and friendly staff contribute to its charm, creating a space where community and comfort meet.

At Contra Café, the menu is a delightful mix of breakfast offerings and sweet treats. The café serves breakfast sandwiches that are perfect for a quick bite, alongside an array of pastries that are baked fresh daily. Coffee enthusiasts will appreciate the expertly crafted espresso drinks, while those with a sweet tooth can indulge in the famous clementine cake, a local favorite. The café's commitment to quality ingredients ensures that each dish is not only delicious but also made with care.

Situated in the vibrant Old Toronto neighborhood, Contra Café is surrounded by a rich cultural landscape. The area is known for its eclectic mix of shops, art galleries, and parks, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely day out. Visitors can explore nearby attractions such as the iconic Kensington Market and the serene Trinity Bellwoods Park, both just a short walk away. This central location not only enhances the café's appeal but also makes it a convenient stop for those exploring the city's diverse offerings.

A: Yes, the café features a lovely patio.

Whether you're in the mood for a comforting breakfast sandwich or a sweet pastry to accompany your coffee, Contra Café is the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the simple pleasures of life. Stop by today and experience the warm ambiance and delicious offerings that have made this café a cherished part of the Toronto community.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnTUNnaWRDTGtBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJd8T-bWI0K4gRiTsC9I1V8vA/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnTUNnaWRDTGtBRRAB

coffee is superior; pastries are excellent. i would have the clementine cake every day of the week if i could. perfect neighbourhood coffee shop tucked away on shaw st. vibes are good, staff are kind, patio is beautiful in nice weather. worth stopping in at (again & again 😉) if you’re in the area.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR2d09PSGlRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJd8T-bWI0K4gRiTsC9I1V8vA/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR2d09PSGlRRRAB

Tried their coffee and croissant for the first time today, and both were good. The young lady who took my order, Valerie, was very pleasant.
The music was not loud and was just at the right volume. It was also playing soft music.

The space is a bit small made up of 8 tables for two (you can put 4 tables together on a one side only to accommodate more people as the other side is only table for 2 that you cannot join as there are within 1 meter of where people line up to order.
Overall good experience

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNUenN5QVlBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJd8T-bWI0K4gRiTsC9I1V8vA/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNUenN5QVlBEAE

The coffee and pastry was quite good. Looks like they have lots of nice pastry options to go back and try.  Service was so-so. The staff working that day wasn't that friendly. Nice cozy atmosphere. I would try it again if I'm in the area.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUMteS1IZEJREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJd8T-bWI0K4gRiTsC9I1V8vA/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUMteS1IZEJREAE

I love this location, it’s quiet (despite the current construction) and the staff here are top notch lovely.  The baked goods are really interesting and delicious (cherry brioche didn’t even make it to a picture), the coffee is awesome as to be expected and seating was all over the place including a sweet patio.  If you need a change of scenery or a treat, and Contra is nearby…. You know what to do.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURfeGVIQlp3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJd8T-bWI0K4gRiTsC9I1V8vA/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURfeGVIQlp3EAE

Really enjoy this cafe. Coffee is great. My wife loves the matcha latte and we always get a breakfast sandwich. The other baked goods are also tasty

Contra Café: Cozy Café with Artisan Pastries in Toronto

Contra Café Menu Overview at 1028 Shaw St, Toronto ON M6G 3N1, Canada.

Nestled in the heart of Toronto’s Old Toronto neighborhood, Contra Café offers a minimalist yet inviting atmosphere perfect for a relaxed breakfast or a casual coffee break. This charming café is renowned for its superior espresso drinks and a delightful array of baked goods that perfectly capture the essence of a neighborhood coffee shop. Whether you’re starting your day or looking for a mid-day treat, Contra Café’s menu is designed to please both coffee enthusiasts and food lovers alike.

Begin your culinary experience with their freshly baked pastries that have garnered rave reviews. From flaky croissants to unique treats like the highly praised cherry brioche, each item is baked to perfection, showcasing rich flavors and delicate textures that make for a perfect start or a delightful snack alongside your coffee.

For a satisfying meal, indulge in Contra Café’s breakfast sandwiches. Crafted with fresh ingredients and served in a cozy environment, these sandwiches offer a savory complement to the café’s exceptional coffee selection, making them a favorite among locals and visitors seeking a wholesome breakfast option.

Dessert lovers will be enchanted by the café’s unique offerings, including the much-loved clementine cake, praised for its perfect balance of sweetness and citrus zest. The dessert selection pairs beautifully with a cup of expertly brewed coffee or a soothing matcha latte, providing a sweet finish to your visit.

Contra Café specializes in a variety of espresso drinks, celebrated for their superior quality and flavor. The coffee menu also includes fan favorites like the velvety matcha latte, which has quickly become a staple among regulars. Each beverage is crafted with precision to deliver a rich and satisfying experience in a relaxed, minimalist setting.

 offers a beautiful outdoor dining experience, perfect for enjoying your coffee and pastries on a sunny day.

 creates an inviting space ideal for both work and leisure.

Discover Contra Café in Toronto's Old Toronto! Indulge in artisanal coffee and fresh bites. Experience cozy vibes—visit us today!

Contra Café: Cozy Café in Old Toronto, ON

Toronto Municipality

Contra Café

Ontario

Enjoy top-notch coffee, delightful pastries, and a cozy vibe at Contra Café in Old Toronto, near Shaw St. A perfect spot for coffee lovers.

Contra Café, Old Toronto Toronto – Cozy Coffee & Pastries

Visit Contra Café on Shaw St for high-quality coffee, tasty baked goods, outdoor seating, and a friendly neighborhood atmosphere in Toronto.

Best Coffee & Baked Goods in Toronto’s Old Toronto Area

Discover Contra Café in Old Toronto for excellent coffee, unique pastries, a serene atmosphere, and friendly service right on Shaw St.

Contra Café Menu Overview at 1028 Shaw St, Toronto ON M6G 3N1, Canada.

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