THE LIBRARY SPECIALTY COFFEE · YELP ASSISTANT
Ask Yelp Assistant
The Library Specialty Coffee Photos
Business Info
The Library Specialty Coffee Popular Drinks
THE LIBRARY SPECIALTY COFFEE ATMOSPHERE
What's the vibe?
You might also consider
More like The Library Specialty Coffee
Recommended Reviews - The Library Specialty Coffee
Start your review...
Reviews With Photos
I always appreciate a simple menu coffee/tea shop! This shop was tucked away past the bustling First Markham Plaza. The menu is small, only including the classic coffee drinks, tea lattes, and non-caffeinated options as well. There is also a pourover list that highlights different varieties of coffee beans. I ordered a matcha latte. Not the strongest matcha latte I've ever had, but I do like a matcha-forward drink. This is moreso a medium-potent matcha. The drink overall was only warm, not quite hot - I wish the milk was heated a little longer, since it cooled quite fast. I would come back if this was my only option for matcha, but all-in-all, this coffee shop does matcha better than most shops.
This place is hard to find. Well hidden in this busy plaza. The coffee here is great, it's easy to tell the team here are very knowledgeable and skilled in all things coffee. There isn't much seating area. The cafe seems set up to be geared towards a grab and go style. There are a few low tables and benches along the wall, but don't expect to be comfortable sitting and chatting.
Finally, a proper matcha latte! Maybe I just really like my matcha bitter, but The Library Specialty is one of the best places to go to for matcha. The service was prompt and efficient, and there were a few spots inside for seating. It was quiet on a Saturday afternoon when we got there, but more people started coming in afterwards, and got some iced matcha (despite the cold, haha)! The hojicha latte was tasty as well, it tasted similar to the ones we had in Japan.
I was genuinely disappointed by my experience at this coffee shop. I decided to visit after seeing many cute photos and positive reviews, but unfortunately the quality and service did not match my expectations. The coffee itself was very mediocre and not worth the price. I don't mind paying more for a good cup of coffee, but there was nothing particularly special about their drinks that would justify the cost. We ordered a hojicha latte and a small café latte, which came to around $14-15 with tax. The latte was fine but on the smaller size don't let the photos mislead you. The hojicha latte was bland and not sweet at all, even though we specifically asked for it sweetened. The latte art was also wasn't great. Customer service was another disappointment. The staff member working today did not greet us or offer any assistance while we looked at the menu. Despite the shop being very quiet, she seemed visibly annoyed, which created an unwelcoming atmosphere. The only moment she acknowledged us was when she noticed I was taking a lot photos, which felt a performative. Overall, the interaction left a negative impression. Given that the shop is located in a plaza with limited foot traffic, I truly hope they consider improving their customer service and consistency in their drinks to get more returning customers. The menu is quite minimalistic maybe because seasonal items were sold out but the store itself does has a clean, simple design with four small tables.
This is a cute local coffee roaster, but tbh I was a bit let down from the hype. I am by no means a coffee connoisseur, but even I was confused by the very non-existent coffee taste in their coffee. I got a vanilla bean iced latte and it felt mostly of milk and a very light hint of the espresso. I think they had real vanilla beans in their syrup, as there were lots of what looked to be seeds at the bottom of the cup. However...it didn't taste like vanilla...? So I can't tell if what was actually at the bottom of my cup was espresso grounds somehow. Don't get me wrong, it was very inoffensive as a cup of smooth milk, but I don't know if I would ever pay $7.63 for an approx. 350mL cup of smooth milk. I don't want to give this place a very low rating because I like to support local, but this place really had me questioning my money spending. It's not for me, but they sell their beans and matcha in-house if you are into that. They also have limited seating and a few small tables, would be luck of the draw for you to get a spot to sit down.
The Library has been on my to-go list for a while now, and after a bit of navigating the plaza to find this shop (thank you GPS), I'm so glad I made the trip! The exterior & interior of this shop is aesthetically minimalistic - I couldn't even tell it was a coffee shop until I took a closer look. There is some bench seating available; while it wasn't the most comfortable seating (I don't think I'd work here), it was good enough to sit down to sip my drink and chat. I decided to try both a coffee and non-coffee latte. The Library uses in house roasted coffee beans and whatever blend they used for my latte, it was perfect. Not too strong in roast, mellow flavour, but still tastes like coffee. My matcha latte was also delicious - the punchy bitterness of the matcha was well-balanced with the milk. And the latte art here is next level gorgeous - my tip is order a large; you're more likely to get a more intricate design! I'm excited for my next visit already.
Minimalistic cafe using in-house roasted beans and very precise brewing methods. I love the interior decor and attention to detail. As far as coffee goes, this is hands down the best in the area if you're looking for very well-brewed handmade coffee! :: cold brew was absolutely delicious! super smooth, great flavor, and amazing syrupy texture. :: hojicha latte with oatmilk (not mine) had great roasted tea flavor. :: since I'm from out of town, I couldn't leave without some beans!! Staff were very friendly and knowledgeable about their drinks and beans. I watched them make pour over coffee (looks like Hario v60 immersion drips) but the entire coffee bar is covered in different gadgets and brew accessories. They really know what they're doing here. 10/10 would come back again if I'm ever in the area.
Location/Service This place is right in the next plaza of First Markham Place, where A La Kitchen is located. Plenty of parking around the plaza, but it does get pretty busy. Inside is pretty small, with a couple of small seatings available. I like how they make it more open spaced to make it look bigger and nice use of the natural lightning. Service is nice, staff were friendly and orders came quick. Food/Drink Not a wide range of beverages available, so it fits their name that it's a specialty coffee. I tried the flat white for about $5. The coffee was strong and overall taste was flavourful. I liked it overall. Will definitely try to come back again for other drinks with a few more people.
So happy they opened a location uptown!! Located in the industrial looking buildings behind First Markham Place, the cafe has great natural lighting and definitely a bigger seating area than their downtown location. They have a shelf of beans and equipment for sale as well. As always, I got my usual! The Aussie styled cappuccino which I would say is most similar to a flat white with cocoa powder. Since not many places offer this, I tend to stick with a capp whenever I visit the library. However, I have tried their normal lattes, flat whites, and americanos and they never disappoint. Can not wait to go back and chill more with friends :)
Such a great spot. I like the flavours and roasting of Library - was really excited when they opened an uptown location. The cafe itself is a nice aesthetic spot making for a great ambience. Service is always friendly and prompt. Will be back soon!
One of the newest coffee shops in Markham opened a few weeks ago and it's already buzzing!!! We first visit last weekend and came back again on a Saturday afternoon and it was very busy. They are an Aussie-style cafe. Minimalist decor with a few low round tables and wood benches. We tried the vanilla bean latte and matcha latte during our first visit and when we came back for our 2nd visit, my hubby tried the dripped coffee called Geisha. It was our first time trying drip coffee and my hubby really enjoyed the true flavour of coffee. They also sell coffee accessories and milk products. The service is always friendly and the staff is knowledgeable.
Coffee was good. I got an iced americano. Interior was spacious and clean. Wish they had a few more tables and seats. Service was good.
Love the space, love the coffee. you can really taste the roast. So well made and designs on point. We came here after dimsum and sat around to chat. Wish I wasn't just visiting!
I love going to the location downtown so I thought I'd try coming to this one uptown! It is a bit hard to find as there is no signage. I got a flat white that tasted great! The service was quick and the inside was simple clean and bright. Will definitely come back and try their other drinks! read more
Library coffee is a meticulous coffee lab that is dedicated to roasting beans with precision and balance. That level of care really comes through in the cup; you can taste the depth and intentionality in every sip. I ordered the vanilla bean iced latte, and it was easily one of the best espresso bases I've had in a while. The shot itself was rich and layered: deep, chocolatey, and nutty striking a really nice balance between bitterness and acidity. It finished with a smooth, almost creamy note that made the whole drink incredibly enjoyable. The only downside is the size-to-price ratio. At around CAD $8.50 for what felt like a 10 oz drink, it's definitely on the pricier side for something that goes down this easily. Still, I'd absolutely come back when I'm in the mood for a more premium coffee experience. (Funny note - the barista and I had a small rant together about how people order "iced cappuccino" and macchiato expecting Starbucks milk sugary drink instead of the "proper" shot with dollop of foam. I understand their pain hahah) read more
The Library Specialty Coffee seems to be highly regarded by Redditors in the area, and I was open to trying it again after a subpar experience at their downtown location a couple of years ago. My cousin and I arrived shortly after opening on New Year's Eve. The cafe has a small interior with minimal seating, mostly bench seating along the wall with small round coffee tables. Even though there was only one barista working that morning, she was efficient at taking orders and making drinks despite several orders happening at once. We did not feel like we were waiting very long. I ordered a pour-over with the Finca El Paraiso Peach Colombian beans, which use a thermal shock washed process. That was something I had not heard of before. The tasting notes listed nectarine, tropical fruit, and caramel, and it was recommended since I was looking for something more out of the ordinary. I enjoyed the wilder flavor profile, but it was hard to fully appreciate because the coffee tasted overly diluted. The barista mentioned she used a 15g to 250g bean-to-water ratio, which is higher than how I normally enjoy my pour-overs. My cousin ordered a flat white with whole milk that was very creamy with strong espresso notes. We also ordered a matcha latte for my other cousin, which was apparently too creamy. Overall, the beans themselves were good, but the pour-over leaned watery for my personal preference. The bag of beans used for the pour-over was priced at $32, which is only a bit more than double the cost of the pour-over itself. In hindsight, I felt slightly ripped off and should have just bought the beans instead. read more
I always appreciate a simple menu coffee/tea shop! This shop was tucked away past the bustling First Markham Plaza. The menu is small, only including the classic coffee drinks, tea lattes, and non-caffeinated options as well. There is also a pourover list that highlights different varieties of coffee beans. I ordered a matcha latte. Not the strongest matcha latte I've ever had, but I do like a matcha-forward drink. This is moreso a medium-potent matcha. The drink overall was only warm, not quite hot - I wish the milk was heated a little longer, since it cooled quite fast. I would come back if this was my only option for matcha, but all-in-all, this coffee shop does matcha better than most shops. read more
This place is hard to find. Well hidden in this busy plaza. The coffee here is great, it's easy to tell the team here are very knowledgeable and skilled in all things coffee. There isn't much seating area. The cafe seems set up to be geared towards a grab and go style. There are a few low tables and benches along the wall, but don't expect to be comfortable sitting and chatting. read more
Finally, a proper matcha latte! Maybe I just really like my matcha bitter, but The Library Specialty is one of the best places to go to for matcha. The service was prompt and efficient, and there were a few spots inside for seating. It was quiet on a Saturday afternoon when we got there, but more people started coming in afterwards, and got some iced matcha (despite the cold, haha)! The hojicha latte was tasty as well, it tasted similar to the ones we had in Japan. read more
I was genuinely disappointed by my experience at this coffee shop. I decided to visit after seeing many cute photos and positive reviews, but unfortunately the quality and service did not match my expectations. The coffee itself was very mediocre and not worth the price. I don't mind paying more for a good cup of coffee, but there was nothing particularly special about their drinks that would justify the cost. We ordered a hojicha latte and a small café latte, which came to around $14-15 with tax. The latte was fine but on the smaller size don't let the photos mislead you. The hojicha latte was bland and not sweet at all, even though we specifically asked for it sweetened. The latte art was also wasn't great. Customer service was another disappointment. The staff member working today did not greet us or offer any assistance while we looked at the menu. Despite the shop being very quiet, she seemed visibly annoyed, which created an unwelcoming atmosphere. The only moment she acknowledged us was when she noticed I was taking a lot photos, which felt a performative. Overall, the interaction left a negative impression. Given that the shop is located in a plaza with limited foot traffic, I truly hope they consider improving their customer service and consistency in their drinks to get more returning customers. The menu is quite minimalistic maybe because seasonal items were sold out but the store itself does has a clean, simple design with four small tables. read more
This is a cute local coffee roaster, but tbh I was a bit let down from the hype. I am by no means a coffee connoisseur, but even I was confused by the very non-existent coffee taste in their coffee. I got a vanilla bean iced latte and it felt mostly of milk and a very light hint of the espresso. I think they had real vanilla beans in their syrup, as there were lots of what looked to be seeds at the bottom of the cup. However...it didn't taste like vanilla...? So I can't tell if what was actually at the bottom of my cup was espresso grounds somehow. Don't get me wrong, it was very inoffensive as a cup of smooth milk, but I don't know if I would ever pay $7.63 for an approx. 350mL cup of smooth milk. I don't want to give this place a very low rating because I like to support local, but this place really had me questioning my money spending. It's not for me, but they sell their beans and matcha in-house if you are into that. They also have limited seating and a few small tables, would be luck of the draw for you to get a spot to sit down. read more
The Library has been on my to-go list for a while now, and after a bit of navigating the plaza to find this shop (thank you GPS), I'm so glad I made the trip! The exterior & interior of this shop is aesthetically minimalistic - I couldn't even tell it was a coffee shop until I took a closer look. There is some bench seating available; while it wasn't the most comfortable seating (I don't think I'd work here), it was good enough to sit down to sip my drink and chat. I decided to try both a coffee and non-coffee latte. The Library uses in house roasted coffee beans and whatever blend they used for my latte, it was perfect. Not too strong in roast, mellow flavour, but still tastes like coffee. My matcha latte was also delicious - the punchy bitterness of the matcha was well-balanced with the milk. And the latte art here is next level gorgeous - my tip is order a large; you're more likely to get a more intricate design! I'm excited for my next visit already. read more
Minimalistic cafe using in-house roasted beans and very precise brewing methods. I love the interior decor and attention to detail. As far as coffee goes, this is hands down the best in the area if you're looking for very well-brewed handmade coffee! :: cold brew was absolutely delicious! super smooth, great flavor, and amazing syrupy texture. :: hojicha latte with oatmilk (not mine) had great roasted tea flavor. :: since I'm from out of town, I couldn't leave without some beans!! Staff were very friendly and knowledgeable about their drinks and beans. I watched them make pour over coffee (looks like Hario v60 immersion drips) but the entire coffee bar is covered in different gadgets and brew accessories. They really know what they're doing here. 10/10 would come back again if I'm ever in the area. read more
Location/Service This place is right in the next plaza of First Markham Place, where A La Kitchen is located. Plenty of parking around the plaza, but it does get pretty busy. Inside is pretty small, with a couple of small seatings available. I like how they make it more open spaced to make it look bigger and nice use of the natural lightning. Service is nice, staff were friendly and orders came quick. Food/Drink Not a wide range of beverages available, so it fits their name that it's a specialty coffee. I tried the flat white for about $5. The coffee was strong and overall taste was flavourful. I liked it overall. Will definitely try to come back again for other drinks with a few more people. read more
4 years ago
So happy they opened a location uptown!! Located in the industrial looking buildings behind First Markham Place, the cafe has great natural lighting and definitely a bigger seating area than their downtown location. They have a shelf of beans and equipment for sale as well. As always, I got my usual! The Aussie styled cappuccino which I would say is most similar to a flat white with cocoa powder. Since not many places offer this, I tend to stick with a capp whenever I visit the library. However, I have tried their normal lattes, flat whites, and americanos and they never disappoint. Can not wait to go back and chill more with friends :) read more
Such a great spot. I like the flavours and roasting of Library - was really excited when they opened an uptown location. The cafe itself is a nice aesthetic spot making for a great ambience. Service is always friendly and prompt. Will be back soon! read more
One of the newest coffee shops in Markham opened a few weeks ago and it's already buzzing!!! We first visit last weekend and came back again on a Saturday afternoon and it was very busy. They are an Aussie-style cafe. Minimalist decor with a few low round tables and wood benches. We tried the vanilla bean latte and matcha latte during our first visit and when we came back for our 2nd visit, my hubby tried the dripped coffee called Geisha. It was our first time trying drip coffee and my hubby really enjoyed the true flavour of coffee. They also sell coffee accessories and milk products. The service is always friendly and the staff is knowledgeable. read more
2 years ago
Coffee was good. I got an iced americano. Interior was spacious and clean. Wish they had a few more tables and seats. Service was good. read more
TLS coffee has landed in Markham and I'm all for it. Occupying a nondescript location on a less visited laneway, it provides a quieter retreat from neighbouring First Markham Place. Offering a selection of single origin coffee beans, and options for pour-over and espresso based preparations, this is a place for serious coffee drinkers. I spoke with the staff who were helpful in answering my questions about the different coffee beans and preparation methods. I mentioned that I was looking for coffee that was smooth, and non-acidic, with chocolate and nutty notes. I was directed towards a medium blend. I was offered a medium vs large cup, both containing the same amount of coffee but varying in the amount of water for my americano. They have non dairy milk options as well, which I appreciate. My coffee hot, fresh, non-acidic, with notable characteristics of chocolate and nuts. The big splash of oat milk added a nice creaminess and slight sweetness. I like the minimalistic decor. No frills, no fuss to detract from quality cups of coffee. They also sell various coffee paraphernalia (filters, drippers, cups, and pitchers). Open Thursday thru Sunday only. read more
This is their 2nd location, the first location is in downtown Dundas area. It's a small coffee shops with a few seats, they close on Monday and Tuesday to roast the beans at the back. Coffee is great, too bad the beans are too expensive, otherwise will buy some home to try. read more
First time coming to their Markham location. Got an americano and it was perfect! Super friendly service as well. Would definitely stop by when in the area. Pretty small shop but they do have a couple of spots to sit inside. They also have lactose free milk for an additional cost so that was a lovely surprise as well. read more
2 years ago
Minimalistic coffee shop. Not many seats but nice to sit and chat with a friend. Definitely do not try to bring a laptop to work and the tables are super tiny and only fit 3 cups of coffee max. read more
2 years ago
this cafe is right next to first markham place which is nice and convenient. they have plenty of parking, but it can get busy. the cafe itself is relatively small with limited seating, but i really like the open space and its natural interior. the staffs were friendly and the drinks came out quick. both the matcha and the americano was strong which i like. the matcha wasn't grainy and wasn't too sweet read more
4 years ago
I tried their matcha oat latte and loved it because the matcha wasn't grainy and I liked the balance of matcha and oat milk! If you like strong matcha, I've definitely had stronger options elsewhere. Their cafe latte was strong and pretty good. The interior is cute but if you're looking to stay and enjoy your coffee, there's not a lot of seating. read more
Absolutely LOVE this coffee shop. I try to go to the location on Dundas in downtown as much as possible when I have to go into work but I was super excited to find out that they opened a new location recently in Markham! This location is so dope and close to everything, it's located right behind FMP (First Markham Place) in a quiet plaza. I typically order an Americano and a flat white to go at the downtown location but since this location is so much bigger with an actual seating area and an option to sit down to enjoy your coffee....we couldn't resist. We ordered a flat white and a cappuccino - for all those lactose intolerant people like me...they use a quality local whole milk from Sheldon Creek and my stomach had never had any issues with this milk (they do also offer milk alternatives like lactose free, oat milk, etc.). The space has seating all around the walls and windows of the store. There is a nice set up of things they sell from their coffee beans to coffee accessories. The set up looks very similar to the Dundas location, the only difference is the dine in option and a bigger space. This is absolutely a hidden gem and we're so excited to be coming here more often when we're in the area! read more
3 years ago
I tried the iced café mocha $6.75 standard price and taste a lot better than Starbucks!! Strong Mocha taste and not too sweet. The atmosphere of the interior is nice and neat not too fancy. They also sell coffee beans but I'm not too familiar with that and service is great. I would definitely come back to try other drinks. read more
3 years ago
4 years ago
We ordered a cold matcha latte and a cold vanilla bean latte. The matcha was a bit weak, but otherwise both drinks were good. The decor was minimalistic and there were some seating at the window and side to sit and chat. read more
4 years ago
