Blu Shaak Coffee located along Yonge St. near Isabella St. is a popular Korean coffee chain that originated from Busan, South Korea. This is their first Canadian location in Toronto. Their cafes are known to be minimalistic and simple where the logo is blue in colour, like a wave or a surf fin - which evokes feelings of refreshing rest and warm meetings. They also roast and use their own coffee beans in their drinks. Currently, their first Toronto store is in it's soft opening phase.
I stopped by Blu Shaak Coffee on a Tues afternoon to check out their coffee. The store is small where there is seating for about 10-15 people. All the seats were taken when I went. Staff indicated that I could order via the kiosk or in person with them.
Menu wise, there is a large selection of drink options - the Shaak Latte and Shaak Matcha (matcha is from Jeju in Korea!) being their signature drinks. They also have your usual espresso based drinks (some unique ones including peach iced tea with espresso, cinnamon cafe latte, and the white americano), bubble tea, teas, a large selection of other beverages (such as the toffee nut latte, sweet potato, Lemon Yuja tea, Valrhona chocolate, etc.), as well as blended drinks (smoothies, frapps, etc.). They also have baked goods like macarons, caneles, financiers, cookies, scones and donuts as well.
I ordered via the kiosk where I decided to get a Shaak Latte (one of their signature drinks which give off a savoury taste by blending of rich espresso, savory milk, and Blu Shaak cream). This drink is cold. My order didn't take long to make and staff handed me my drink, suggesting how I should try it. I took a few sips in the store and was pleasantly surprised by how delicious the Shaak Latte tasted! The Blu Shaak cream wasn't too sweet and it blended so well with the rich espresso they used. The size of the cup is also not big but I prefer it that way where the portions of all the ingredients work well together. Staff also were appreciative and happy that I enjoyed the signature drink as well.
Overall, a great new Korean coffee chain in Toronto. I will definitely be back for that Shaak Latte again!! read more