Toronto's coffee scene has exploded in recent years, and with remote work here to stay, cafes have become the city's unofficial co-working spaces. Here are the best spots to set up your laptop.
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Downtown Core
- Sam James Coffee Bar (297 Harbord St) - Serious espresso, tiny space, academic vibes
- Pilot Coffee (Te Mana Cafe, 2 St Clair Ave E) - Third-wave excellence with laptop-friendly seating
- Jimmy's Coffee (multiple locations) - Local chain with good wifi and outlets
West End
- Boxcar Social (235 Queens Quay W) - Harbourfront views, natural wine bar by night
- Mallo Coffee Bar (1126 Queen St W) - Parkdale gem with great pastries
- Early Bird Coffee (various) - Reliable quality across multiple locations
East End
- Dark Horse Espresso (215 Spadina Ave & others) - Industrial spaces, strong coffee
- Te Aro (983 Queen St E) - Leslieville roaster with excellent single origins
- Rooster Coffee House (479 Broadview Ave) - Riverdale favourite
Remote Work Amenities
Look for cafes that offer:
- Free wifi (ask for password)
- Plenty of power outlets
- No time limits on seating
- Good natural lighting
- Reasonable noise levels
Need a Dedicated Space?
Consider co-working spaces like WeWork, Workhaus, or Make Lemonade for more reliable work setups.
Etiquette Tips
- Buy something every 1-2 hours
- Don't hog tables during peak hours
- Use headphones for calls
- Tip your barista well
