This is the nicest Balzacs in the GTA - all the pictures do it justice. The atmosphere is why you come to this location. The coffee and food is standard - average - certainly not third wave coffee. Historic building with seating both on the main floor and above. The coveted tables are on a small balcony overlooking the main floor. They also serve coffee in stall outdoors. It's often busy on weekends but there is outdoor seating if you can't find any inside. Definitely worth a stop to have a coffee and take photos!!! read more

Balzac's Coffee Roasters - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

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We ended up at Balzac's in the Distillery District during a major winter storm after driving down specifically for SOMA's hot chocolate, only to find it (and many other shops) closed. Balzac's was open, which we genuinely appreciated given the weather. This particular Balzac's location is undeniably beautiful. Housed in a historic Distillery building, it has soaring ceilings, exposed brick, old-world industrial details, and a warm, cozy aesthetic that really fits the area's history. There was no lineup, which was a nice surprise, and despite many seats being occupied by people clearly settled in for long stays with laptops and personal setups, we managed to find a spot upstairs at a high-top table. We ordered the limited-time S'mores Hot Chocolate, described as a premium hot chocolate topped with whipped cream, toasted marshmallow, graham cracker, and chocolate drizzle. At $10, it felt overpriced for what it was. It's a sweet drink by nature, but this leaned heavily into a low-quality sugary sweetness rather than rich, chocolate-forward flavour. It lacked depth and didn't feel "premium" in taste, especially at that price point. Unfortunately, the upstairs seating experience also took away from the atmosphere. One customer was FaceTiming on speakerphone, loudly, making it hard to enjoy the space. It's a shame, because the café itself is stunning, but the experience really depends on everyone being mindful and co-existing in a shared space. Overall, I'm glad Balzac's was open during the storm, and the setting is gorgeous. That said, the hot chocolate didn't impress, and the noisy environment detracted from what could have been a much better visit. read more

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I insist on Balzac's being the first stop whenever we visit the Toronto Christmas Market. It's warm and cozy and always smells wonderful. The staff is friendly and their drinks are delicious... I've never actually gotten anything to eat since the market has SO many options; but, their baked goods do look yummy. On this particular visit, my dad got the Canadian maple latte and I got the honey cardamom latte. Both hit the spot. Perfect temperature and flavorful without being overly sweet. Also, my latte looked exactly like the picture they used to advertise it, latte art and all! How many times have you gotten an item that actually comes out looking exactly as advertised?! On top of the deliciousness and being beautiful, they are also reasonably priced. I will definitely be back. And my friends love Balzac's too... The day I posted pics on my Facebook two different friends commented about how great it is there! read more

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The Balzac's Distillery District location is probably my favorite in Toronto. This time, I tried something I wouldn't normally order--and it was delicious. The Honey Cardamom Latte from their seasonal menu was a standout. read more

Balzac's Coffee Roasters - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

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I always order iced chai lattes at every shop I visit. Balzac's had one on the menu, however they had many cool flavors for the coffees and none for chai. I was able to custom ask for the maple latte syrup to be added to my chai for an up-charge and it was perfect! If you are a fan of chai lattes I recommend it. The service was good however there was a long wait due to the holiday fest/market going on. The interior was very clean with plenty of seating including an upstairs area as well. We didn't stay inside long, we took our drinks and walked around all of the stands and shops. A perfect treat for the walk. read more

Balzac's Coffee Roasters - Iced Chai Latte with maple syrup - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

Balzac's Coffee Roasters represents a masterclass in the intelligent restoration and repurposing of heritage architectural space. Located in a Distillery District building of considerable historical significance, this establishment transcends the commonplace coffee parlor through its demonstrated commitment to architectural integrity. The physical environment itself functions as a statement--soaring ceilings and rustically elegant furnishings create an atmosphere that eschews trendy minimalism in favor of honest, confident design that honors the space's history. Service demonstrates genuine attentiveness and hospitality, permitting patrons freedom to linger without pressure to consume hastily, a rarity in contemporary café culture. read more

I have to say... I got a nice cup of coffee with maple something or another and all I can think of was how smooth the coffee was let alone the flavor.... Yeah sooo I had to come back after our walk to this location at the distillery and it's a really cool spot. The vibe has an old industrial feel but with smatterings of the old mix with artsy new. The workers were really friendly and patient with us as we had a nice sized group. I was pretty impressed with the quality of the brew that J bought some dark roasted and also espresso roast beans to bring back home... still enjoying the two kinds. Very full and rich. Love this coffee and will be sad when J run out till my next trip back to Toronto. read more

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A beautifully historic coffee shop to grab a beverage and baked good in the Distillery District. Stay and enjoy your time while taking in the beautiful architecture of the space, or grab something to go and explore the sights and sounds in the Distillery District. Tends to be very busy during peak times, so service is not always the friendliest. read more

Balzac's Coffee Roasters - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

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Be sure to try their Canadian Maple Latte, it's absolutely delicious! Located in the heart of the historic Distillery District, this cozy spot offers plenty of seating upstairs, perfect for relaxing and soaking in the charm of the area Staff is nice and friendly, my drinks came out quick read more

Balzac's Coffee Roasters - Iced Canadian Maple Latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

This little store on the corner is cute on the inside. Tall ceiling with fun tchotchkes on the wall that make it seems like it fits in to the age of the building. This serves up made to order coffee. I got the maple iced latte and it didn't disappoint with that maple goodness that is classic Canada. And it's mixed fresh so you could tell it was warm first before the ice started to kick in. Service was prompt and it was great to sit outside on a warm summer day and take in the joys of the Distillery District! read more

Delicious matcha latte! I got ir with oatmilk and honey. Nice and toasty and a perfect amount of frothy foam on top to keep everything sealed in. The matcha tasted very clean, pure, and earthy. Friendly staff and cozy ambiance inside the shop. Very ice rest stop for us while we explored the Distillery District. 5/5. read more

Balzac's Coffee Roasters - Matcha Latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

Back in 2018, while waiting for two friends to arrive for the Christmas market at the Distillery District, I needed a drink. I found Balzac's Coffee Roasters. I decided to check it out. Balzac's is located near the big clock. It's one of the first businesses that you see after you have parked (you shell out for it) and head over to the main entrance. I had a nice man greet me as I looked at what I wanted to get. Hot chocolate seemed like a perfect drink on a cool Saturday morning. My drink was just under $6. It's a bit much for a standard hot chocolate without any bells and whistles. I used my debit card to pay. All went well. It didn't take long for my hot chocolate to be made. I thanked him and continued to browse while waiting for my friends to arrive. The hot chocolate was yummy. It was slightly sweet, but had lots of cocoa that screamed comfort and happiness. I loved it. It could have used some marshmallows. I was happy that it didn't have whipped cream. The cup was pretty sturdy as I walked and sipped my drink. I had mittens on, so I didn't find my drink to be hot to hold. I don't even know if there are sleeves for hot beverage cups. I should go back and check out the other menu items. The place had a couple of floors. I'd love to sip and people-watch sitting down next time. (459) read more

Balzac's Coffee Roasters - Hot chocolate - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

Slightly on the pricey side, but decent amount of seating and a really nice vibe. There are two floors and super high ceilings. Love it! read more

Balzac's Coffee Roasters - Vibe - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

This review is for the Balzak's location in the Distillery District. We actually get coffee from here every time we visit the DD, but I've never done a review. Our most recent visit was memorable because it was the annual Winter Village and though the District was packed, service and quality inside the coffee shop was excellent. We ordered 2 coffees - a large latte with regular milk and a small seasonal special cafe 'Nordique', which is espresso (I got mine decaf), with milk of choice (I went with oat), a honey drizzle, vanilla and cardamom. Both were the exact perfect temp for immediate sipping, and were fresh and tasty. At just over $6 Canadian for both (together, with tip!), I was very happy; in the states a single specialty/coffee-shop coffee costs that much, and you're not even guaranteed to get fresh coffee! Definitely check this place out when you are around! read more

Balzac's Coffee Roasters - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

Such a cool spot in the distillery district! I ordered a cappuccino and really liked it. Service was very kind and patient to answer my questions. This place as a second floor for additional seating, as well as an outdoor patio on the street side read more

Balzac's Coffee Roasters - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

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Went to Balzac's for a quick bite while waiting for an appointment nearby. The Cashew cookie was amazing, but the scone was alright. The coffee was pretty amazing. Quick service, good ambiance. Excellent choice if you are looking for a good coffee and a quick bite. read more

Balzac's Coffee Roasters - Scone - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

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A beautiful atmosphere awaits at this historic coffee shop located in the Distillery district. They serve coffee, both hot and cold. Come here for the coffee, stay for the ambiance. An ornamental chandelier, cool signage and two levels of seating await! read more

While in Distillery district decided to try this coffee specialists after a meal Was so impressed with the awesome menu There were a super special coffee menu from caramel to white chocolate and more Ordered a caramel coffee tasted superb like the best I've ever had The white chocolate flavoured coffee was great too The coffee quality was excellent too To buy our coffee was a very long queue at 9.50 pm late evening took us 25 to 30 minutes to get to the counter and then they make ur coffee They have a cosy and cool small seating area on the first level Wonderful experience except for the lo read more

Balzac's Coffee Roasters - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

This chain of Cafés are strategically located in historical neighbourhoods or cultural districts like this location situated in the Distillery District of the Six. Opened two decades ago as Balzac's second Café, the former 1895 Pump House welcomes java lovers & baked product patrons below a giant Vaudeville chandelier. Amazing coffee, great service & ambiance for a hefty price! read more

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Location/Service This spot is right inside the heart of the Distillery District. It's by the corner lot of the main area with the big clock. Parking is available around the area - and it's quite accessible via public transit. Love the interior, with its big doors that opens up to a high ceiling interior. Social distancing measurements are in place with sanitizers available. Staff are super friendly and orders are pretty quick. Drink I stopped by to grab a quick drink on a windy day - had a hot chocolate. Pretty standard - it was warm, a little sweet and very concentrated with its cocoa. Definitely warms the soul - and I like their packaging setup where you don't feel it's too hot carrying it around and it's sturdy enough that it won't spill easily. read more

Balzac's Coffee Roasters - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

i came across balzacs on tiktok and got tempted to try their s'mores drink. unfortunately, it turned out to be the worst drink i have ever had--completely disappointing and way overpriced. i felt awful wasting it, but i just couldn't bring myself to finish it and had to throw it out read more

Balzac's Coffee Roasters - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

Balzac's Ratings: 4/5 Food: 4.5/5 - After walking around the Distillery, we stopped by Balzac's for a hot drink and just to chill and chat with our friends. I got an apple cider to share with my boyfriend, since he never had one before. I got to say they made a good first introduction to him. He enjoyed it a lot. Please see why Balzac's is the cutest spot at the Distillery and the description of the drinks I got below. - Hot Apple Cider [GET]: I always thought that apple cider is a very sweet drink, especially when it's warm and hot, but this one was perfect. The cider was not too sweet and has a strong apple flavor. It was slightly tangy and acidic, making me want to have more after each sip. Not going to lie, we finished it pretty quickly. It's just the perfect drink on a cold day. It makes me feel cozy and warm inside, lovely! Also, there's a slight hint of cinnamon, but you can always add more with the ones they provide at the counter if you want. Ambiance: 4.5/5 - Love the interior a lot. There's a big door, high ceilings and lots of colorful posters and signages covering all sides of the walls. There are two levels with limited seating on the main floor, but tons of seating available upstairs. We sat upstairs on the balcony, and we get to see the whole main floor from above; it's great. Perfect place to take a break and have a good conversation with friends or bringing your girlfriend on a date. They sell merchandise too. Price: 4/5 - I got a medium apple cider for around $4 after tax. I was already expecting food and drinks to be on the pricier side at the Distillery, but this price wasn't bad at all. Worth it for the drinks and vibes, so come check it out. Service: 3/5 - The staffs here are friendly and inviting, but we had a not too good experience here today, because we waited for at least 15+ minutes to get my apple cider. The staff that took our order forgot about it, and we just kept waiting until something seems off. When we asked about it, the staff that took our order was nowhere to be found and had to wait longer until she's back to confirm. We weren't mad, since we were just chatting with our friends, and people make mistakes sometimes. BLUF: Absolutely the cutest and coziest spot in the Distillery for some hot drinks. Come for the vibes, atmosphere, and relax from walking around. I would recommend getting the hot chocolate or the apple cider, and maybe pick up a treat or so as well if you got coffee. I would love to come back to check out their coffee beans in the future. read more

Balzac's Coffee Roasters - Hot Apple Cider - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

I find, in life, you generally get what you pay for - and this is no exception. As each coffee place has its own taste some hit some are off by some percentage. But It won't replace my day-to-day need of coffee Caffeine serve's the purpose! Freshly brewed great taste , but it's well worth splashing out on if I fancy some caffetine based, self-indulgence and luxury. read more

Balzac's Coffee Roasters - Coffee bags - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

The moment you step into Balzac's Distillery District, you're transported to a different era. The beautiful heritage building that houses the cafe is the perfect setting for enjoying a delicious cup of coffee and one of their fresh-baked goods or sweet treats. The coffee is some of the best I've ever had - it's always fresh and flavourful, and the staff know how to make a perfect cup. The service is always friendly and the atmosphere is relaxed and inviting. It's the perfect place to take a break from exploring the city and relax with a good book or conversation with friends. I highly recommend Balzac's Distillery District for anyone looking for an enjoyable and unique coffee experience. read more

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I ordered the salted Carmel latte and my husband got the peppermint Mocha. Some of the best lattes we've ever had, and we've had alot. If you're at the holiday market would definitely make it it stop read more

Balzac's Coffee Roasters - Coffee bar - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

Travelled from Markham to downtown looking for a nice, comfortable space for some good quality coffee. Decided to walk around the Distillery and ended up at Balzac's since the other cafe didn't have indoor seating as of yet. Service was great, and 2nd floor was surprisingly a quiet space considered there were customers flowing in and out downstairs. Ended up staying here for about 4 hours to get some work done. Wouldn't mind coming back here in the AM for some quiet work space. read more

Excellent coffeehouse with an unbeatable brick mill interior and vintage accents. Seating on first and second floors. A charming spot in the Distillery District. read more

Such a cozy place to chill with some coffee and sweets. I love hangin' out here when I'm in the area. I've introduced many friends to this place, and we have always had such a lovely time. I find it more relaxing to head on upstairs to lounge on their couch, admire the art on display; or have a seat on their indoor balcony to people watch from above. A great place to stop in, for a caffeine fix while strolling through the historic Distillery District. read more

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This is a beautiful coffee shop, in a beautiful part of Downtown Toronto. I highly recommend coming here and walking around- you won't be disappointed. I got an iced coffee with almond milk, and it was good. STRONG, which I loved! My fiancé loved his iced coffee as well, and he's not even an iced coffee person. So that's saying something! read more

Balzac's Coffee Roasters - almond milk latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

Love this coffee shop... The most Instagrammable chandelier in a coffee place that I have seen. And also Balzac's also rocks it's drinks! Only downside of this store is they don't sell all the baked goods that you find at other locations .. for example: carrot cake! But otherwise this location is so cool. Already been here for 3 times so far apart from Yonge/Bloor one. Everytime I am in distillery - you can find me here read more

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Wow what a nice spot. The Coffee is good and on point. Like the assortment they have. tHe staff was friendly and had a few suggestions. They have good items here. Would def come back.! Highly Rec! read more

I decided to try the winter menu - Oat Milk Cookie Latte and the classic - Cafe Latte. I won't get the oat milk cookie latte, for me, i could not taste the oat milk, and it is too sweet for me. However, the latte is strong, I like it so much! And enjoying a cup of coffee with a Christmas vibes, what can I ask for more? Follow @astravel_eats for more read more

Balzac's Coffee Roasters - Winter cup - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

A spacious cafe with two levels is a great place to stop by for a coffee or tea, especially in cooler weather. My brother and I shared a hot chocolate together and it was not as bad, I'd say it was above average. The service was good despite the location being fairly busy. read more

Balzac's Coffee Roasters - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

Actually a really nice coffee shop. A good amount of traffic but the place looks real nice on the inside. A unique design and good coffee. Over all this is a fun place to stop by yourself or with some friends. Im sure during the Christmas market season it's packed. The coffee was well made and tasted great. If the weather is a little warmer when you go it's also really nice to sit outside and it hang out in the square. read more

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One of my favourite places in the city for quite times. I love the distillery district. This place is rustic and has a unique charm. I can spend hours here. I enjoyed the apple cider. Sometimes it's a nice alternative to the tea and coffee franchises out there. read more

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This Balzac's Coffee is located in the Distillery District by the two oversized trinket looking things. Balzac's makes some great drinks. Besides the lattes and the seasonal things like hot cider they really do make some tasty liquid treats. The thing about this store setup is it's in an old building. Being a part of the old Distillery District I'd imagine there's only so much they can do with their footprint. One the main level there are only like 4 tables. There are more upstairs and it's kind of inconvenient for some to make their way to the second floor for physical reasons but the first floor seems large enough where they could possibly have more seating but for now it's quite limited. When it's cold outside 4 tables on the main floor when people are buying cider, hot chocolate, coffee etc just isn't enough. The Balzac's across the street from St. Lawrence market is much smaller but has more places to sit but sure that's a different footprint. read more

Balzac's Coffee Roasters - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

Balzac's keeps it going with their beautiful locations. Usual Balzac food and drinks here. I have to agree with other reviewers with the service complaints,this is definitely the weakest location I've been to with regards to service. Putting that aside, this is definitely a lovely place to grab a coffee with friends. They have comfy seating upstairs, high ceilings and a gorgeous chandelier. read more

Balzac's Coffee Roasters - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

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Love this rustic Balzac's location inside the Distillery District, the decor itself is worth the visit if not the coffee. This is my favourite location by far. On cold winter days, their hot apple cider is exactly what you need to warm up from the cold. They also always have a selection of brewed coffee blends to choose from if you are looking for a nice hot cup of coffee! Plus, their blend selection changes seasonally so theres always something new to try out. I also recommend their oatmeal raisin cookie, it is a simple basic but its super chewy and compliments well with almost any of their hot beverages! Unlike the other Balzac's locations, the seating here limited and it can get noisy on weekends (for those who like working in cafes) when lots of people visit the Distillery. However, its a perfect spot for a date or to catch up with some friends. 10/10 would recommend you to check it out! read more

Balzac's Coffee Roasters - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

Very good coffee! We stopped here for an afternoon pick me up and were not disappointed. We ordered an iced latte and a frappe. Both were super good especially the frappe. It wasn't too sweet like you find at other coffee shops. The atmosphere was great. The inside was super welcoming and "artsy" which was nice. There was patio seating outside which on a nice day like today was perfect. If you need coffee and are in the area, come here! read more

This coffee place is huge and has so many antique designs and signs. I fell in love with this place as it offers nice spacious seating outside and also on the second floor. Not only was the place aesthetically pleasing I fell in love with the drinks. They were quality and I got the matcha latte. The rest of my family got iced coffee, mocha latte, and iced tea. Even though it sounds plain the taste was very different than other coffee places. How they brew and make the drink is unique as it comes out of the taste. I was very pleased with the aroma and just the sweet experience. I would definitely recommend it to anyone who stops by the St. Lawrence market in Toronto. If it is nice outside I would get a nice seating place outside! Also take a lot of pictures...because picture are a snip bit of your memories! Tip: try something new or your favorite drink at a normal coffee place because this place this Amazing read more

Balzac's Coffee Roasters - Unique architecture - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Toronto, Ontario