The Essential cafe and bakery

Very rude staff. Came to buy lunch and they freaked out over me finishing my small coffee lol. I’ll take my business elsewhere. Just go to the McDonald’s or Tim’s across the street.

***IN RESPONSE TO REPLY:
No, actually. Most businesses don’t care if you’re finishing up your quarter cup of coffee and are also buying a $20 lunch at their establishment. Must be really strapped for cash to enforce it this strictly. My guess is you won’t be in business for long with this attitude. Sounds like a you problem - way too many options in the area for people to want to bother with your mediocre “cafe”. lol

Atmosphere: 1

Food: 1

Service: 1

Good coffee, excellent matcha latte, good for breakfast or lunch, nice space for a meet-up, or studying. Speedy and kind service.

Food: 5

came in for a coffee today and had a very uncomfortable experience. When I asked for a bit more ice, the response wasn’t very friendly, but I didn’t think much of it because he still helped.

Later, I realized I forgot my phone in the washroom and went back inside to ask for the key. The staff member rolled his eyes and said to me, “You seem all over the place, is everything okay?” even though I was being polite and apologizing. It felt very disrespectful and unnecessary, especially from someone I had never met before.

There was no need for that kind of comment or attitude. A little patience and basic respect should be the minimum in customer service. Because of this interaction, I won’t be returning.
Mistakes happen, and a little kindness goes a long way. I hope staff here can treat customers with more courtesy in the future.

Service: 1

The honey cinnamon latte is my favourite! And the lemon loaf. Reminds me of pound cake, which is one of my favourite treats.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Always great service, yummy treats and awesome coffee.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Always lovely to be welcomed by Ryan. I'm always grateful for the wonderful oatmilk latte. Ryan makes the start of my day always feel promising

It pains me to leave this review as a repeat customer, but I want to be fair and set this in context.

I sometimes walk further than the nearby Tim’s to support this local café, even though it’s more expensive and less convenient. Today, on a cold (minus 8), windy day, I stopped in to grab a coffee and asked if I could sit inside to eat a Subway sandwich while enjoying my drink. The café was empty, and while I understand the posted policy and conflict of interest, I had hoped for a little flexibility given the circumstances.

The owner’s response was an unequivocal “absolutely not.” I respect that it’s his right to enforce policy, but I expected a bit more tact, discretion, and less condescension. I wish the owner and the café well, but this is my last visit. I hope he reconsiders his approach in future - all the best :)
In the end, rules can and should be upheld — but a little discretion and compassion in applying them can make all the difference in a customer returning, and even recommending to colleagues.

Atmosphere: 1

Food: 1

Service: 1

Visited the cafe today, I was thoroughly impressed with the warm friendly and inviting atmosphere. My grilled cheese sandwich had a fancy spin to it with gourmet cheese and my latte was amazing. Will definitely return!
Compliments to the chef !!!!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Cute little place but unfortunately the sandwich was something I could throw together myself...the matcha latte tasted like straight milk. Overpriced.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 1

Service: 4

A food emporium as charming and delightful as its proprietor who is always on-site, very friendly, professional and accessible. I've been to this cafe many times and have nothing but praise for the food, service and atmosphere! Highly recommended!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

No soup of the day on Fridays, but the sandwiches were good. Kind and welcoming atmosphere with good service. Cute decor! Would come back for soup of the day.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 3

Service: 4

Cozy local cafe with great breakfast sandwiches, good espresso and baked goods.

Ample indoor seating and an outdoor patio options are available.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Lovely family owned business. Has a vacation vibe inside. Great coffee and sandwiches. Highly recommend.

My wife and I make a point of visiting the Essential Cafe anytime we are in the area.
The food we ordered this past visit, was a 3 cheese grilled sandwhich and breakfast bagel. Both were top notch including the bake goods we have had in the past. The atmosphere is unique and comfortable and we always feel welcome by all. I would definitely recommend this cafe to anyone.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

This place is a find! Very cool decor, great coffee, good food - perfect combo.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5