It's really what a neighborhood cafe should be. Feels like a pub, it's got character, it's got good coffee. This is what most cafes in the city used to be like and maybe it's nostalgia for me, or that I'm in New York frequently and we're don't have the number of coffee houses like they do. Think Central Perk on Friends except on the Danforth. read more

The Only Cafe - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

We came here for nostalgia. I used to live in the area when The Only first opened. I remember thinking they would do well. Shortly after, I left the Danforth, and, eventually Toronto. But The Only kept coming up in reminisces and we'd check if it was still around, and it was. Today we made it back, and wow, they have done really well. I'm sitting in the cafe part of The Only, and it's fabulous; eclectic and artsy and unpretentious with great coffee, baked goods and nice staff. The original space I would have a beer in years ago is closed. So we'll have to come back another time for a beer. In the meantime I'm listening to animated chatter and a great music as I sip my coffee and enjoy looking around this interesting space. read more

The Only Cafe - Interior of one room from front looking to back. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

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This has been one of my favourite findings from this year! The One is a cafe and bar, with a spacious and eclectic interior. Their caffeinated drinks also are great and well priced. read more

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Super cute. Great coffee flavours. They have hard boiled eggs in a bowl to buy. I want to steal all the decorations they're so nice. Great music. But once it smelt like someone had a lactose accident. read more

The Only Cafe - Food - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

Best vibes in the east end, hands down. Good coffee, good beer, live music. No matter who you are, you will feel welcome.

I did not pick The One in the Only on purpose to be my last stop for my Indie Coffee Passport run, but it just happened and I am glad that my Passport experience ended in a high note! The mismatch furnitures and the disco ball surprising goes well together! Those armchairs are just so comfy.. and love the music VS Starbucks' canned music. Cappuccino A-OK.. and with lovely latte art. Friendly barista made my stay one of the best. The One in the Only has the best tea selections I seen... over 20 of little sampling bottles at the cash for you to smell before you decide on what you like. The late hours! The bar like vibe! The free wifi! Makes The One in the Only stands out from other coffee shops in the area! read more

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When a Wifi password is "iloveyou" what is there not to love about this place? The One in the Only is the perfect cafe if you are looking for a place to meet with friends or sit quietly and do some work. I was in the area searching for a place to eat lunch, get some work done, and hang for a couple of hours... The One in the Only offers exactly that and more!! I didn't realize that the cafe is divided in half where one side serves cafe drinks and the other side is a bar. It is the perfect combination when meeting with friends who want a beer and you just want a good cup of cappuccino. It is also a great place if you feel like drinking a glass of wine while you get inspired to do work too. Also, you are allowed to bring your own food as long as you buy something from the cafe. Like..... WHHHHHHAAAATTTT!!!! YOU HAVE WON MY HEART!!! I love the eclectic décor of this place. Who would imagine seeing a disco ball and a church pew in the same location? Haha! They also have a large seating area outside--I got lost in the cafe looking for the bathroom (which is located in the basement)--and so I was able to explore the whole place. I would totally recommend this place in the evening if you are wanting to gather friends for a huge party. I don't think I have found any place like this in Toronto, I guess it is why this place is called The One in the Only. If I'm ever in the area again, I would definitely hit this place up!! read more

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Nice setup ok crema good latte art Another entry into the indie coffee passport. The Setup is quite nice and with a nice eclectic look with music to match. I was taken aback by how big the place is. Nice comfy sofa and free WiFi. Now for the drink I ordered the cappuccino with a sweetener. The barista put in before pulling the shot just the way I like it. Good latte art. Nice crema to boot as well. Initial taste was the burnt smell one gets but it mellowed out quickly. 3.5 stars for cappuccino. I think one of the better ones in this area for sure. 3.5 stars overall. Small hitch though I couldn't somehow connect to WiFi. Visited this spot on the Indie Coffee Passport 2012. Same as last year dependable and decent. I walked in from the Pub side by mistake and I was like who starts drinking at 11AM. read more

The Only Cafe - Cappuccino - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

We head east upon a strong recommendation to check out this acclaimed spot. The promise of 'the best beer list in the city' too good to pass up. Mere steps from the subway, the place is really a collection of two rooms placed side by side.... it instantly reminds me of Nye's in Minneapolis. Just less Polish. And not in Minneapolis. Our friends are on the "One" side. They're huddled in the back corner sippling foreign sounding beer and playing Jenga. You take a block from the bottom and you put it on top. We put our coats down and venture to the bar on the "Only" side. We stare at the well stocked fridges and try to select some beverages that will garner us some street cred amongst the locals. I think that we ended up choosing based on color. I ended up getting a bottle of something that came in a shiny package from far far away. Hipsters, eat your heart out. You take a block from the middle and you put it on top. I personally think that the decor here is amazing. Sure, it's standard kitchy bar stuff.... but they do have an original signed copy of the Mona Lisa, which must be pretty rare. Eventually the tower fell, but it did so before we did. read more

The Only Cafe - The original Mona Lisa - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

I walked inside and saw Beer Taps and Bar Counter. Not my idea of a Cafe but maybe it is a new Cafe concept I thought. I slowly walked in while the Bartender did his work. Nope, no espresso machines or cups. I saw a way through behind the curtain at the back. Sounds like a porn shop, right? It lead to the Cafe side which is, The One in the Only. I remember Greg C. said that sometimes enjoying a drink is a personal preference and in this case I'm not sure what did it for me but I enjoyed my Cappuccino while seating at the comfy back sofa seats just in front of the doorway to their back Patio. The Pumpkin Muffin($2.00) was A-OK too with all those Pumpkin Seeds on top. I believe it's imported since I saw similar Muffins from other Cafes. I can see why it's one of Kat Fs fav since I saw two Apple Laptop users side by side. I thought it was her sitting there. :p There's even a spinning Disco Ball on the ceiling for those party animal minded. Lots of books for that reading environment at the back while you will notice lots of art and photos on the wall which I'm sure at least one will peak your interest. read more

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Cafe and bar! I passed by looking for a coffee break on a Saturday afternoon. We picked up a London fog, blueberry Danish and steamed milk. London fog was good and up to the standard, danish was a bit donutish. The vibe is super chilled and there is so much space. Excellent for working, studying or large groups. I saw the sign that they do brunch and I'll be back for that. read more

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So many people have suggested this as a place I should check out. "You work from home? You should check out The Only." And then I didn't. For like a year. But I finally went. And it was so good. A coffee shop and a bar in one. With food, but that will also let you bring your own food. With friendly service and cozy spots to linger. And the people watching. The people watching is so good. How is this place real? read more

I loitered here with a $2 coffee and a $2.50 biscotti for a few hours. WHO EVEN SELLS COFFEE FOR JUST 2$ ANYMORE? And the most delicious biscotti. I'm in love. simply the best place to hangout, work or get a beer. Finally. the perfect cafe. Why didn't I find this place sooner?? read more

Hipster alert! Do you wear a wool cap? Perfect, you'll fit in. Let's start with 3 stars...an average coffee house. *dark and cluttered, every patron with a laptop in their lap - lose a star *eco friendly coffee cups - gain a star *unfriendly server/barrista - lose a star *good quality coffee, nice microfoam - gain a star *Indie Coffee Passport participant! - Congrats, you get 4 stars! (The most important quality, good product, earns this place it's 4 stars...the gloomy employee makes it feel like a 3.5.) read more

This place is a novelty, and if I was rating it purely based on ambience and decor, it would probably be five stars as far as hipster coffee shops go. They have an abundance of comfortably seating, which I'm tempted to say all of which has been pre-loved (if you're a germaphobe, stay away) and they serve you drinks in fun mugs (expect no china tea cups...). The lighting is VERY dim, especially if you are sitting in the back. It's a fun and interesting place with plenty of knick-knacks for your observational pleasure. BUT. I found the service to be mediocre. The girl behind the counter was indifferent to everyone but for a few customers sitting at the coffee bar, and although she did serve me as I waited in front of the til, she seemed impatient with me and didn't smile. T'was unwelcoming and threw me off. The coffee is coffee, I did not find it overly fantastic or anything to complain about. And the place smelt a little funky. I'm almost sure that it was just someone that was sitting near to me, but the smell lingered still after he left... Note to people who choose to sit in the back of the cafe: There is a back entrance. Thinking I was as far back as I could get and able to see everything happening in front of me, I almost peed my pants when someone walked in from behind me. When I actually went to use the bathroom, I started scanning the room questioningly, the barista girl definitely saw me, and yet failed to point out what I might be looking for.. Turns out the bathrooms are in The Only Cafe, the bar next door, through the curtains. I felt EXTREMELY awkward going in here and trying to find it. I mean, you want to do work, you have work mind set, you walk into a bar with work mindset, and it throws you out of whack a little to intrude on two middle-aged guys having a drink on a Monday afternoon... I don't know... The whole bar/cafe combo didn't sit well with me. I don't think I shall be returning to The One in the Only. read more

I am so happy that the interior is not like Sneaky Dees because that's what the sign outside looks like. It seems as if this place was made for groups of any (decent) size! From comfy looking chairs for the party of one to a communal table and scattered pairs of comfy chairs place making full use of the not so large interior. The staff member seemed one of those people that you might feel comfortable giving a complicated order and not be afraid of him messing it up and on top of that he was friendly as well. My latte was pretty fantastic to top it off, I couldn't spend too much time in here, but it is very conveniently located near the subway exit. Had a chocolate chip cookie as well and it didn't disappoint although I do wish they had a bit more snack options under their belt. One of those places that I would sadly not visit again as my passport travels have introduced me to other great coffee stops that better suite me in terms of location. read more

Anyone who has never been in the One will have their mind blown, because it's totally wacky and a perfect representation of Toronto. This is not for the faint hearted; if you come in rushing, you will leave relaxed. Don't tap your toes waiting for your drink like a Starbucks caffeine fiend; the One in the Only is an experience. It's as cozy as a hippie commune with the right vibe of a cafe. There are mamas with strollers, musicians, university students, neighbourhood locals and construction workers all sitting and chatting. Come in with a book, laptop or stranger and stay for a few hours. Stare at the photograph of Audrey Hepburn and let your eye slowly move to the handmade robot on the fridge. Anything happens at the One. Their lattes are a part of my daily routine, but they also offer your usual espresso-based drinks (cappuccino, americano, machiato) and chai latte. They also serve a cafe allongé - basically a stretched espresso with more water, not as large as an americano and with crema! The difference is also that americanos basically dilute an espresso with hot water, whereas an allongé just "elongates" the volume and preserves the taste. I am salivating again. This always happens. Another specialty NOT on the menu is a green tea latte, which is macha powder with warm milk, but surprisingly sweet and has a good caffeine kick. A bonus for the adventurous - if you try anything on the menu, end up not liking it, the baristas will make you something else free of charge. They are that cool there. As for munchies, Circles and Squares scones and muffins are usually soldout by the afternoon but cookies from desmondbeatrice, a cute new place from Leslieville, are always around. If you're hungry for the savoury, ask for the menu (not advertised). They serve samosas, olive and cheese plates (olives come from Uzel which is right next door) and paninis named after Italian movie stars, like Sophia Lauren, Alberto Giocommetti. Once you've stayed too long, just cross the curtains and head to the Only for some solid craft beers. read more

I had a Soy Chai Latte here and it was probably one of the worst ones I have ever tasted. It was on the brink of being cold 'cause there was way too much milk and not enough chai at all. The latte on the other hand was super strong but that's because my barista put 2 shots of espresso since I told him I was getting tired. The vibe is still rockin' but I don't think fancy drinks are his specialty. I'd order a coffee or latte next time if I were you guys! BUT, the staff are still charming and as friendly as ever! read more

The coffee's pretty good and the ambiance is perfect for getting some right-brain work done. Dark and comfortable, with good service from pleasant people. Had the breakfast burrito, which I can't recommend as it was rather small, dry, and tasteless. But at least the prices are low. Free wi-fi is a bonus. read more

I am currently sitting in The One in the Only, the coffee shop attached to The Only Cafe on the Danforth at Donlands. This is my first time here and I'm already taking time out of my cover letter writing activities to review this place. Because it is THAT cool. First off, the atmosphere. Cozy decor, with comfy couches and chairs, nice lighting, and cool tunes. It's currently just past 6 on a Sunday evening and my company is a group of four men drinking beer (which I presume is from The Only Cafe, which is actually a bar, that is next door) and playing backgammon, and a girl at the back drinking a coffee and reading a book. Dig it. Secondly, the eats and drinks. Admittedly, I can't speak to this very much as all I've had is the $2 (inclusive) massive glass of tea I'm still nursing. They have about 20 types of fancy tea and I'm drinking the Monkey King Jasmine which was given to me in a Mill St. Brewery pint glass. Wicked cool. You can also order a pot of tea but this glass is more than enough for me! They do seem to have some nice snacks in the form of cookies, danishes, and croissants that I'll have to try when I'm hungrier. Thirdly, there's free wifi. I love, love, love free wifi. Guaranteed, I'll be coming back to this place when I need to get out of the house and get some work done! read more

This place is killer. They easily have one of the best cappuccinos I've ever had in my life. I don't know how they do it. It's magical. The food is also outstanding. I had a bagel that was perfect, and $6 total got me my bev and my food. Throw in a casual, hipster vibe and free wifi (ask for the p/w) and you've got all the makings of a regular hangout. read more

This place is cozy with a vintage/Kensington feel with a bunch of old couches. It's also one of the few independent coffee shops that I've found that's actually open late (around 10, I think...?). I'm giving this place 2 stars because I found my latte had a slight bitter/burnt taste to it and service left a lot to be desired. Doesn't seem like it's a regular occurrence according to the other reviewers though. The barista awhile to take my order since he was distracted with chatting with a coworker (a person waiting behind me actually left). The coworker openly expressed how she gets so annoyed with people asking where the washroom is (it's in the bar next door through the entrance by the barista bar in the back) right after someone asked her. Between this place and a coffee chain, I'd choose the chain. read more

I went to the Only Cafe for the first time in years, I mean YEARS. I had a morning meeting and when I walked in, the guy behind the bar asked if I was having a drink or a coffee. I chuckled and said coffee, he then pointed to the other half which is now a cafe! When I walked though to the other side, which I am now told is called The One in the Only Cafe. I'll continue my review there! My cafe latte was really yummy and it gave me a warm feeling that I was supporting a local business. I have a feeling that I'm going to have a few more morning meetings in this joint (and I'm sure if I asked, they would spike it for me :D) When my meeting was scheduled there of all places I wondered why & now I know. While I was waiting, I was listening to the idle chat of the hipster guys behind the coffee bar and it was pretty funny. **If you are by the Donlands subway station, and looking for a spot to hang out in that is casual and relaxing in the morning, this is the place** read more

Funky little cafe with couches, mismatched furniture...reminds me of the shop from Friends. I came here on a wintery night...I think they were holding their X-mas staff holiday party. People were milling about near the back and the music got loud. Prices seemed okay - they have a large selection of loose leaf tea. read more

Always amazing, always perfect coffee. If you are sick and tired of the bull plop you get from Starbucks, and other shops of the like check this place out, from conversation insighting artwork to coffee that is always perfect and never burnt. If you feel like it they always have fresh baked goods from the bakery down the way, recently acquired a contract for gourmet Popsicles, and their coffee is Fair Trade and organic but they don't talk about it like it's an Advertising campaign like you know who does. This place is amazing from the ground up. You may have to wait a little longer for your drink of choice but you won't be disappointed. read more

Great little coffee shop on the Danforth. They have free wifi, use organic coffee and have almond milk for an option. The people that work their are also always nice. Nice change from a Starbucks. read more

Very small but definitely a fun relaxed atmosphere. Great live music on Saturday. The Only is the bar side with a huge menu of international beers and ciders and the One is the cafe side with great coffee and baked goods read more

Cool vibe, nice staff. I just wish they had more of a beer selection, there's only like 5000 on the menu..... ;) read more

Good coffee and decent ambiance. Crappy music they'd be better without. They have a weird rule. I was enjoying my coffee and trying to write something ticky on my tablet. Closed my eyes for a moment to concentrate and when I opened them a waiter was walking toward me. He told me I was not allowed to sit with my eyes closed. First time for everything but this is surely a first. So intrusive. read more

What a great find! This place reminds me of why I love the east end. Such a cute, intimate, little cafe with a very relaxing atmosphere and great employees who seem genuinely happy to see you and have conversation with you. Where can you get a large speciality Brew for under 2 bucks or Americano for 2.50? Um hardly anywhere. This is a gem and must be checked out on the reg. read more

This is by far my favourite coffee shop in the area. The coffee and pastries are affordably priced and always consistent in taste, and the atmosphere is amazing. Not a single spot on the wall doesn't have a painting or photo on it, and there's a full bookshelf at the back for customers to browse. They have free wifi, and it never gets too loud, so it's a great spot for working! The best part, in my opinion, is the staff. They're all incredibly nice, and are part of the reason I'm a regular here. read more

Great east end Cafe. Good coffee, baked goodies and free WiFi. Comfy, cozy, eclectic decor and board games to pass the time for groups. Perfect for passing the time. read more

Fun and funky little cafe with good affordable baked snacks teas and coffees. You can bring your beer from the adjoining Only Cafe if you'd rather hang here to enjoy your book, talk audibly with a friend or listen to some eclectic live music. Sweet. read more

No place like this. Excellent coffee, wonderful and friendly staff. Love the atmosphere, unpretentious and cozy. I do wish that sometimes they turned down the music a bit. read more

I was looking for a place for a coffee before a meeting. I was heading to Starbucks, and then saw this place and gave it a try. I'm so glad I did. The coffee was delicious, the vibe was fun and there was maple syrup for a sweetener! read more

Relaxed spot for good coffee and espresso. Attached is a bar that carries a large variety of local craft beers and the back yard patio is nice spot to hang out in the summer. read more