Very good coffee/latte & tea selections & can't say enough about the delicious assortment of baked goods!! It does get busy at various times of the day, but there's quite a bit of seating. There's really good music playing over the buzz of numerous conversations throughout the cafe. The staff is friendly and keep the order line moving! read more

Balzac’s Coffee Roasters - Cinnamon drizzle latte & chocolate chip cookie - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

The seasonal caramel apple iced coffee was a delightful treat, perfectly balancing sweet caramel and crisp apple flavors with a refreshing chill. A must-try for fall! On the other hand, the almond croissant, while buttery and flaky, fell short in flavor, lacking the richness and almond depth expected from this classic pastry. read more

Balzac’s Coffee Roasters - Caramel apple iced coffee & almond croissant - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

Not bad but with Tim Hortons nearby gone, this has to be the go-to spot for guests looking to grab a quick drink at the Library. Fair prices imo. read more

Balzac’s Coffee Roasters - Matcha latte iced - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

Nice place, ok coffee, not much not to love. It's not like your third wave coffee house vibe but is elegant and clean enough. The coffee didn't seem much better than Tim's or McCafé... but you can get more options and I like that. read more

Finest coffee you can get. Just bought some "A Dark Affair" today from the supermarket as it was on sale. Enjoying a cup right now. Really, you can't get any better. Very satisfied. read more

Not as nice as the distillery district location but love the location of this cafe. I've come here many times now and the service is always prompt. It's a nice cafe to have in the library. I enjoyed the hot chocolate I had here. read more

I stopped in at Balzac's to rest my weary feet and pass some time while waiting to meet a friend for dinner. Okay, they also had a spot to plug in my phone charger. Top score for that! It's a busy little place with a good selection of hot and cold coffee beverages. I had an iced Mocha that went down too easily. I should have savoured it a little longer. The one odd thing that stood out to me was the layout of the counter. You order and pay at one end and pick up at the other end, nothing unusual there. All their pastry stands, however, are at the pickup end of the counter. Should I have started at that end to make a selection before placing my order? I didn't so all I had was the coffee. That was good. read more

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

I can't believe I've never seen this place even though I've been walking past the library for the past 3 years. Their Iced Matcha Latte... oh my GOD. So good. I may be exaggerating because it's a hot day and I'm drenched head to toe, so the first sip of that delicious green beverage just completely floored me. Pricing is a little high (around 4-6 dollars for every drink), but around this area I think all cafes will have this price. There is free wifi from the library. read more

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

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so cute and the food and coffee is great! i had the chocolate banana muffin, the greek yogurt parfait, and a peppermint mocha latte with oatmilk! read more

Balzac’s Coffee Roasters - a cup of coffee and a muffin - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

A decent espresso. The crema was worthy of a picture, even if I took it in a to-go cup. Not perfection, but much better than a certain chain that likes to burn the beans. Staff are polite, and efficient even if you look like Hanks in Castaway. read more

I liked how quickly the line moved. For very strong coffee drinkers you might really appreciate this, for me, it was too strong (flat white). Great addition to library. read more

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This is a convenient spot to grab a coffee if you are by the Reference Library. I like the coffee. The baked goods are decent. There is free WiFi! However, it's pretty hard to find seating. I'll keep coming here, but it's really hit or miss whether you can actually sit down here! read more

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

Came here tonight and had a skim latte. Pros: - heaps of seating - great place for people watching as it faces Yonge Street - good location; steps from Yonge-Bloor Station - cute decor - latte art - open late Cons: - it's in the Reference Library (a lot of dodgy people) - could be a tad cheaper Not sure when I'll be back, but for now it's a-ok. read more

I love Balzac's and love that they have a location in the library. It's a shame that it doesn't have the same French-style decor that other locations have. There's always a mix of students and homeless people there, and it can get pretty crowded. If you just wanna check out Balzac's, I would recommend a different location. If you're going to the library though, it's a good place to grab a coffee :) read more

Balzac’s Coffee Roasters - The ceiling has a really interesting design. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

After hours of perusing books that appear to have been last read when Sir John A. MacDonald was Prime Minister, the sights and smells provided by Balzac's was a very welcome change. I've been here a few times and their dark roast coffee has been nearly perfect. They have lots of sweets to choose from, mostly of the cookie and brownie variety, which are quite good (guilty pleasure as a pre-cycling get-me-upper). The modern decor is easy to look at and the seats are reasonably comfortable, as long as one isn't planning to stay there for hours on end. Lots of floor to ceiling glass, which makes for a great people watching experience on Yonge Street, and a great respite from the sometimes dank and dark areas in the Reference Library. Good atmosphere, good coffee, good treats, I'll be back again for sure. read more

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The place has a very nice decor and lots of natural light and there is plenty of seating which is great for such a busy spot. however the (drip) coffee itself is rather disappointed in my opinion. slightly pricier that at the nearby chain cafes - but it's quality doesn't justify it. the coffee is brewed ahead of time and it might sit for quite some time in urns, before being sold, which might be the reason for its rather unimpressive taste. I prefer places that brew and sell just one or two kind of drip coffee so it is super fresh when served. I suppose this is rather place for espresso based beverages. I have tried americano there, which was pretty good, but too pricy for me to have it regularly. As the place gets crowded quite often, the waiting time can be long. I was under the impression that the cafe can use more staff. the baristas are friendly and capable but a few times I wish they would be more attentive to the situation (for example a long line up forms, while one of the employees busies himself doing some cleaning or organizing behind the counter, which can probably wait a few minutes while he can help his coworkers). I saw the garbage bin overflowing, and milk and cream pitchers sitting empty a few times. I guess the staff was just too busy serving customers to take care of that. the same goes for empty plates and cups being left on the tables and not cleared for some time. It is great to have a cafe inside of the Reference Library, but on the other hand there are some shortcomings of having an artisan type of establishment in such a busy location. I definitely prefer visiting Balzac's at the Distillery District - where the atmosphere is much more relaxed (at least on weekdays), and slower service isn't that much of an issue. read more

Great place to study, a bit busy often (get there early if you want a seat) but nice staff and decent coffee.

I love this local chain of coffee shop. The decor is nice and stylish. Lots of seating but way too busy for me since it's attached to the library. read more

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

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I ordered the Café Canadien on my first visit to the city a couple years ago. Every trip since then, I do my best to order one. Because their Saturday closing times, my pilgrimage usually occurs on a Sunday morning. I've had maple syrup lattes at other businesses including a couple in the States. I like how the syrup isn't too overwhelming. Enough to know it's present but not too much to hide the other ingredients. As for the service, the staff have always been friendly and professional. It was due to their helpfulness did I end up ordering the Café Canadien on my initial visit. I wanted to try something different. Although it's a few blocks from my hotel, the walk is well worth it. It's also an excuse to allow me to order the latte guilt-free. read more

Balzac's has a certain nerdy charm to it, and there's something about having a coffee right at the foot of the reference library that stimulates wonderful conversation, or so I like to think. But the pastry I had (almond chocolate croissant) was tasty but too buttery. The cappuccino was borderline revolting the first time I had it, decent the second time. I won't be ordering it a third time. So overall, Balzac is more ambiance than appetissant. But still charming in a passing way. read more

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I work minutes from this place but only been here twice. Guess it is because I have a gold card to Star... you know what. I am glad I decided to drop in on a Friday morning for a treat. The ham and mustard roll was so good I had two! I also like that they have almond milk available. I had a salted caramel latte made with almond milk. It is one of the best lattes I have had in a long time. I am a caffeine freak and I love coffee in any form! I love the coziness of this place. It is so airy and bright and they've painted and decorated with the color yellow. You feel like you are in an European café. read more

Balzac’s Coffee Roasters - Ham and mustard roll - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

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Decent drip coffee in this busy café on the main floor of Toronto Reference Library. Tip: the view upwards from the library's main floor is quite impressive (this building opened in 1977) so this is not a bad place to take a visitor for a quick beverage break if you find yourself in the vicinity. The cash register was on the fritz (and being repaired remotely) during our visit, but the mellow dudes working here weren't too bothered about it, served up the stuff and suggested we pay after. Six drinks (two medium coffees, two single espressos, mineral water and juice) were about $16 after tax. I couldn't access the library wifi from here, but maybe the cafe has their own network. read more

I really like the space, and truthfully the coffee is pretty good. The only real detractors are the price point (expensive) - $8 bucks for a Americano and scone. Also the service is a bit lack lustre. I go to a lot of shops in the same range and they bring a little more customer service. read more

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

I really like Balzac's. I come here often. It's attached to the reference library. They offer vegan cookies, steamed almond and soy milk, maple syrup in their drinks. Everything is soooo good. I'm so glad it's so close to me, I'm here all the time. It is really busy on weekends and it's hard to get a table at times. There are two long communal tables, a bar along the window for sitting, and a few small 2-3 person tables in the back. Drinks are a bit pricey but when you taste them its worth it. A lot of work goes into them too, it was like a production. I only wish they were open later. I think they close about 9 on certain weekdays. Definitely worth checking out! It's not too loud and its a great place to sit and do work. If you can find a spot. read more

I didn't have a chance to try the food here, but the coffee and espresso was quite excellent.

The most disgusting cup of coffee ever. Organic or not, their "bold" was watery, weak, burnt and had either been in the carafe too long or they never bothered to wash the coffee machine after just installing it. Such a pleasant barrista, too bad I shall never see them again! Other problem: the cup sleeves are 10 steps away and they don't put one on for you, so not only does your palate get trashed with the terrible coffee, you also get burnt fingers. read more

When Balzac's opened, we were happy that we have yet another choice of great indie coffee place for great lattes. Since their opening, we have been a few times, each time saying that we would give it another try. But in general, here are the problems: 1- not enough space. It's expected, in a high traffic area such as the library. But still, I would not want to go back. 2- confusing closing hours: to be honest, there have been 3 times that we went around 4pm on Sunday, and they never close at the same time. Sometimes it is 4, sometimes 4:30, sometimes 4:15. 3- My medium latte, including foam, was only filled to 70% when a paper cup is used. What did you think I was going to add in it? Milk? It's already a latte! 4- Rude staff. Even the staff at Bulldog is nicer. They will continue to be popular because of their location and their name, but they sure are not getting my money again. read more

Books and coffee no better match wouldn't you say? Well if you agree (and I'm sure you do) plop yourself down right here! Right off the library a perfect place to sit down and read (coincidence or marketing strategy??) Exquisite lighting provide by the best lighting provider,the sun, is shining though giving a bright and happy atmosphere.* Warning note! Late cups do not have handles! Do not spin the cup around looking for it, you will not find it. DO NOT WORRY! I know you will be sitting their palms sweating wondering how the Doogle Berries do I drink this! Just take it like Bell did beauty and the beast moment here (proof Disney taught us something) the trick is not to hesitate. Take the 'bowl' with both hands pinkies up for a little queen class and take a sip. You got this! If your not feeling ready for the awaited latte bowl just go for the standard coffee they come with handles. Now you are ready for Balzacs cafe experience! Have fun and enjoy! *note atmospheric lighting only provides on clear and sunny days. Standard lighting will be provided for all open hours. read more

Balzac’s Coffee Roasters - Habdelless Bowl Cup - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

This was the best cup of coffee we had while visiting Toronto. There are multiple locations this was is right by St. Lawrence Market. We also enjoyed this coffee at Union Station after getting off the Up Express from the airport. read more

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

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Had a party last night and came back home at 3:30. Woke up early for a meetup event and got to get some energy booster. Decided to get their Matcha Green Tea Latte with a chocolate Browny. The browny tasted amazingly good. Although the waiter warned me the latte wouldn't be too sweet if I take regular sweetness, I still think it is good enough because of the browny. read more

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LOVE that this is connected to the Toronto Library, and really what a stunning library it is! But this isn't a review of the library.... Stopped by Balzac's for a quick caffeine fix. Both my friend and I ordered single espressos to enjoy in house. The espresso was strong, which I love. I had only ever been to the Ryerson location, which has a completely different feel then this one. I liked them both for different reasons. I love the very large communal table in the centre of the restaurant, with sufficient other dining space as well. There was a random Beyonce basil plant on the counter, which cracked me up. Service was quick, ambiance was great, and the coffee was delicious. What's not to like? read more

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Stopped here to meet up my photography walk tour. It has a cute charm to it, a good variety of coffees/teas. I chose the Parisian Tea - a very light blend of tea with vanilla syrup. It has a frothiness about it that reminds me more of a coffee type drink than a tea. But it was nice light taste with a hint of something sweet. I didn't get an opportunity to try any of the pastries unfortunately. I love reclaimed wood type of feeling for the tables. Feels so rustic and gives the place an un-bougey feel. read more

Located at the Toronto Reference Library, they have an excellent espresso. It was smooth and didn't have a chalky after taste. I think it was approx $2 though I can't remember. I'll have to come back and try their Americano and some their delicious cookies! read more

Balzac’s Coffee Roasters - Stopping by for a quick pick me up. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

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The best thing about this cafe is the location. We need coffee at the library! However, that also means it is going to be crowded so don't expect to do silent reading here while sipping on your coffee. read more

2.5 I usually really like coming to Balzac's but I think their coffee here is not as good as the one at distillery and liberty village. I had the mocha latte and it's just not the same as the other location. This location is great for students as it's located right inside the reference library. read more

Decent coffee shop close to my work. Great alternative to your typical Indigo-Starbucks combo. This coffee shop is in the same building as the Toronto public library. Give their jumbo cookies a try. They are drool worthy. read more

I frequently use the Toronto Reference Library and I've stopped using Balzac because of their tea selection, it sucks. I am a tea drinker. I mostly drink black teas. But the servers seems to push Earl Grey, which I find too flowery or French Breakfast which I find leaves an aftertaste from the vanilla in it. After talking to some other tea drinkers in the area I find that most of them go elsewhere for their tea fix for similar reasons. read more

Everyone must try the syrup flavoured coffee, Cafe Canadien. It's a little expensive, but it's absolutely worth it. The staff is very skilled in making not only the lattes and coffees taste good, but also give the top foam some artistic design. The counter tables that are by the window are perfect if you want to work on your laptop and have a few glances at people walking on the street. Their big centre table is also good if you want to sit down and write. read more

Good coffee and organic hot chocolate. I was disappointed "Armand croissant". The taste was pretty hard. read more

Balzac’s Coffee Roasters - Share big table. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

The Good: It's right inside the Toronto Reference Library. This will prove to be important once winter comes and I don't want to walk those extra steps just to get to the Starbucks a block south. The Bad: Didn't think it was worth it to be charged extra if you up your sizes for tea considering it's just hot water. I can understand if there's a jump in price from small to large, but really? It also got a bit loud even though it was only 50% filled. It's a good thing the library is right there so you can still have a quiet conversation on the ground floor. The Overall: It's bright with natural light because of the floor to ceiling windows. The chars were so so. They were all wicker chairs. If there was the option to have couches or sofas, it would feel more like a coffee shop because they do have the room for it. Revisit: I'll give the coffee a try when I'm doing work at the library but it looks like there's been a few negative reviews so I'm a bit hesitant. But coffee is coffee and it's definitely needed when you gotta stay awake at the library! read more