Rene is making samples of coffee for our PSU tour. Salted caramel. Chocolate ganache. Multiple methods for making coffee. read more

RIM Cafe - The owner - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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Best iced volcano hot chocolate I've had! Worth the $5.00 as it came with African dark chocolate shavings which is 80% cocoa. Also ordered some chocolate truffles to go between the pistachio milk chocolate and the hazelnut dark chocolate truffles, the dark is my favorite and I will definitely be going back for more. It had just the right amount of bitter cocoa and sweet taste to it with a bit of crunch! The pistachio one was a little too sweet for me, but if milk chocolate is your thing, you should go for it. read more

RIM Cafe - Godfather and the volcano iced hot chocolate especially made for me - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

I can't wait to come back!! The hot chocolate was the most decadent, beautiful drink I've ever had. Rene included chocolate shavings of 4 different types of chocolate- dark milk chocolate, white and milk chocolate combo, dark raspberry chocolate, and finally chocolate with pistachio, almonds, pine nuts and hazelnut . Better than the drink? The experience! Rene is so passionate and has a contagious MAKE IT HAPPEN attitude that just brightens your mood. read more

RIM Cafe - The Original - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Oh Rene, I was forced by the GF to come here after our delicious cheesesteak meal earlier in the evening. I thought to myself, is this spot a need to go to place? I've seen the reviews and saw the distance to be covered and thought, 50/50... The GF wins and we go. So we walk into this dark, lounge like lighting, neon filled room, fitting for someone who needs a light show, with music blasting. In the background, I hear an eccentric man (Rene, aka the owner) who is shouting, "I am not done yet! And a lil' of this!" The energy is contagious, all the customers are excited, entertained for their one of a kind chocolate drinks. Most people order some form of a hot chocolate that is topped with some of the most unique and fresh chocolates around. The hot chocolate came out to us, gooey, hot, and thick like some forms of a Max Brenner. The overwhelming melted chocolate was a fantastic touch, just adding to the uniqueness of this place. I have to say, it is one of the better/best prepared hot chocolates I've had, in line with the hot chocolate at Union Sq. park in the Wintertime, but was slightly removed because of price. As another posted described, the man is a mastermind preparing a decashot of espresso to be placed in the Guiness Book of Records. I had not heard of this prior to meeting him back in February, but being a coffee snob, I was nervous and excited at the idea of trying it. I decided to pass that night, but Rene was ready for me to take the challenge. I would give this place a 5, but the prices are a bit ridic. It's a definite treat with a personal touch from a classic salesman, ready to throw every bell and whistle to get you excited for your drink. Maybe you wish your local starbucks barista was as excited as Rene preparing your white mocha, but they usually are not. You walk away feeling his excitement and remembering the experience because it's nothing like you've ever enjoyed. But the price will be my point subtraction. Enjoy it everyone, Rene knows how to sell a cup of hot chocolate. read more

RIM cafe is a chocolate filled gem! I visited RIM when I was on my way to a cannoli shop across the street that was closed when I arrived, then a few people walking by recommended I go to RIM since it was still open. I am glad they made the suggestion! When you first walk in you may be overwhelmed by the excessive decor,but you will be greeted with a warm welcome by the Godfather and his friendly staff. The drinks are to die for super rich and decadent. If you're looking for a "guilt-free" fat-free dessert, this is not the place for you. If you're out for a unique family style dessert experience, RIM is the place to be. Cannoli's are amazing, they even have some dipped in peanut butter, my favorite! read more

RIM Cafe - Latte, Rims famous Chocolate Volcano, small peanut butter cannoli and large original cannoli - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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Underwhelmed. Really looking forward to going here based on the reviews. I hardly ever write negative reviews, but I don't think the $8 basic hot chocolate was worth it. There was nothing mind-blowing at all. Why put the whipped cream on the bottom? Even our 10 and 12 year olds were not impressed. The cannoli at $9 seemed overpriced, but we did not try any of the treats or chocolates, which looked good. The place has a nice kitschy Italian vibe and the owner was enthusiastic, but the marketing seems better than the product. How I miss Naked Chocolate on Walnut. That was awesome hot chocolate! read more

I wish Yelpers had said it was a DARK hot chocolate. Not sweet enough, plus too expensive at $8 for 8oz if you're paying cash. For your average guy, 8oz is way too little. Imagine paying $12 for a 12oz soda can. I'd rather have a Swiss Miss with marshmallows at home. read more

Fabulous coffee....Rene is wonderful. And the chocolate.....oh my god! Tried syphoned coffee.....love it! read more

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so yummie! I have been here a few times with my mom and my husband took me here for dessert on Valentines. Rene is so much fun! my mother put it right when she said that the hot chocolate (we get the basic one because it is so $$$) is like hot pudding- we mean that in the best possible way- delicious. on valentines day, Rene comped my drink - saying that ladies should all get free chocolate on that day - so i got a salted caramel- to die for. hubby had a hot chocolate and espresso- he liked his coffee better but i figured he would. i had a great truffle on a prettily decorated plate. I ate it slowly. my only wish is that the TVs and music we a bit more muted. read more

RIM Café c'est René. The atmosphere is perfect, like a giant collector's den. I have been there a few times, even met René's nephew from Nice once. It is just so Algerian-French, perfect. René's motorcycle just inside the door is icing on the cake. Speaking of which, René makes all his own chocolate, despite the high prices, it is worth it. So go in, have a coffee or hot chocolate and talk to René or his wife and come away believing you left South Philly for at least a few minutes! read more

The guy who runs this joint is a character. Go there on a quiet afternoon and just hang out with him. Oh, and the hot chocolate is delicious. I don't even like chocolate and it's good. read more

mmmmmmm rim cafe rules. i was excited to see they just got draft coffee ! they use good products and have delicious sweets

This is the most unique, quaint coffee place!! you feel at home!! Renee is the best!!! oh and all of his gourmet coffee/with shaved truffles from all around the world are simply delish!!! hightly recommend for a late latte or an early cappuccino!!! ENJOY! read more

Amazing experience!! Rene and Belle provide a unique atmosphere and a great evening! Best kept secret in Philly. The ingredients are fresh and the highest quality. Every drink is a tasty masterpiece . ( I've been there enough now that I've tried them all.) After just a few visits you feel like family. Don't expect a $2 coffee but I am happy to pay for the quality and love and care Rene and Belle put in every cup. If your looking for a boring old cup of coffee or hit chocolate this may not be the place for you. If you want an experience Rim is the place for you! Make it happen!! read more

Great place if you have a sweet tooth, loved the hot chocolate. René made it happen lol I went here and came back within a week to bring my friends because it was just amazing. Love that he is so friendly and funny. He even makes mugs, with photos on them. read more

RIM Cafe - Cannoli - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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Don't waste your time reading reviews on whether or not the Rim Cafe is worth going to or not....The answer is: YES! The atmosphere! The service! The smells! The CHOCOLATE!!! I can't do this place any more justice. Just go and thank me later! read more

RIM Cafe - The mother of all chocolate blocks! Just waiting to become your hot cocoa! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Had high hopes for quality espresso and got a sideshow. The owner stood outside screaming what seemed to be slogans (without a mask) to a scattered crowd of also mask-less patrons. Don't be fooled by the cute outdoor seating. This mostly appears to be a vanity project for neighborhood people to sit and chat. Not only that, my husband heard the groups at the table making racist comments while talking- the owner taking part! And to top it off, EVERYTHING tasted stale. The latte tasted metallic, the hot chocolate just felt off and the truffles? UGH!!!!! How long were they sitting there? I guess come if you want a taste of old racist south Philly with a splash of SCREAMING from the owner. Seriously, don't expect to enjoy your drink in peace, this guy never stops screaming. What the heck??? GO BABY GO..... SOMEWHERE ELSE! disgusting. read more

If money does not matter to you then this place is great. It's got decent atmosphere and tranquility. I'm a bit divided over whether the drinks are worth the price or not. They are good but the Hot Chocolate is $6.50 and if you want the cold version it is $8. Though I suppose relative to alcohol prices it's not bad. I did see them using whip cream in a can rather than the homemade stuff which I did have to frown on though everything else seemed first rate in terms of quality. Overall it's worth at least a try. It's definitely not the kind of place you'd frequent every day but for the occasional visit when you have some extra $$ and want to do something besides the gelato or a pint of Ben N Jerry's its a good spot. read more

I'm new to Philly so was checking out for some coffee shops in the center city area. RIM cafe was on the top of the list with excellent reviews and I really wanted to check out if thats really true as I havent seen such amazing reviews for any coffee shop ever. I wasnt fooled!! The Lavazza, Volcanos and machiatos are simply out of the world!! Also, it was a pleasure meeting "Here We Go" Don Rene' Corleone. Hes such a wonderful person who loves what hes doing. Though I dont live in the city, I wouldnt mind dirivng down quite often to RIM cafe!! I highly recommend... read more

Rim Cafe is not just a place to grab a sweet treat - it is an adventure and an experience unto itself. I can't imagine a better way to spend an evening than sitting at the counter, chatting with René, enjoying a delicious Godfather Volcano and a lovely cannoli. If you're looking for a Starbucks wannabe quick cup'a joe, this is NOT for you. Come to Rim with the intention of giving yourself fully to the moment and you will have an amazing experience that will bring you back again and again. René is amazingly passionate about everything he does and it's so obvious, refreshing, and contagious. He loves his chocolate and is a true craftsman. He loves his photography and is an amazing artist. He loves the connection he has with his customers, and and they love him dearly for it. René and his cafe is one of those rare gems that will forever be a part of your story. And you'll have the photographs to prove it. ;) read more

The Rim Cafe is a must-see in Philadelphia. After one visit, I went on a rampage telling my friends and family about my experience. The first thing I noticed when entering the Rim was how personable and friendly Rene was, even to strangers. I felt comfortable and like I had known him for a long time. Now that I do know him better, each time I return is more enjoyable. He is extremely outgoing, ALWAYS bright and cheery and so passionate about what he is doing. The presentation that you get for each drink made is a work of art in itself and the drinks are absolutely delicious, I've never been disappointed. The chocolates and desserts are (as Rene would say) "Oh my God..." :) Another big thing I noticed when first entering the Rim was the amazing atmosphere that this man had created out of a small cafe in South Philly. There are pictures all over the walls (even on the ceiling). The lighting creates such a warm and unique atmosphere with dim lights and coloured lights scattered around. The bathroom is plastered with pictures of friends and who could forget the beautiful motorcycle on display right by the entrance. As if the fun that comes from being AT the cafe is not enough, you get the added bonus of waiting for pictures to be edited and put up on facebook and they always turn out beautiful. Basically, there is literally no place that can compare to The Rim Cafe and on top of that no one who can compare to Rene and his passionate, friendly, and cheery self. Although I live in South Jersey, every time my friends and I make a trip to Philadelphia (which is quite often) we make a point to stop in at the Cafe at some point of the night - and it is always well worth it. read more

Rim Café. What can I really tell you? YOU HAVE TO EXPERIENCE IT! This great coffeehouse has it all. Location, atmosphere, the best coffee beans money can buy and the chocolate, MY GOD the chocolate. It wouldn't be possible without René. Every single customer gets their own individual experience. Surprises are endless as well. You can watch him drizzle and dazzle every beverage. Another great aspect, as if we need any more, is that most coffee shops aren't really geared to a broad audience. Some are pretentious, some cheap, and some are downright dumps. This cozy nook caters to everyone of every age whether you want caffeine or not. Kids can get hopped up on the decadent hot chocolates while you zip down espressos from Italy, all from the Godfather himself! And really, where else can you get all of this as well as free (and beautiful) photos of yourself taken and posted online in minutes to share with friends? Rim has it all. You never know what's in store, until you walk through the door.... read more

The best hot chocolate I have ever had. We came upon this gem of a place after being disappointed by Pat's and Geno's. Skip the Philly cheesesteak and head here! read more

RIM Cafe - Definitely hope to come back some day! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

First of all...I LOVE RENE!!! I also love THE RIM CAFE!!! Yes, the prices are more then other places...I admit that, but you are not just paying for a drink. You are paying for the experience. Also, it is an Espresso bar.....there is no coffee....Lavazza espresso ONLY! If you want coffee this is not the place to go. I live in NY now and I miss it soo much there. I could sit there for hours talking to all the regulars. Yes, there is a scary as hell bird death camp right next door, but oh well. It is the Italian market where you can buy almost about anything, read more

I can honestly say that I have never been to such an amazing cafe. Even the best restaurants I've been to can't beat the Rim Cafe. I learned about it from my friends, as they went multiple times, and told me such funny stories that I just HAD to go check it out. As Soon as I walked in with my friends, René instantly recognized us and greeted us with whole-hearted hugs. I was amazing at how one man ran this amazing cafe. I'm a baking and Pastry major and I know how hard it is to run a restaurant, especially one so beautiful by himself. Only a person with a true passion and love for their job would be able to do so. A way that René gets familiar with his costumers is he takes beautiful photographs of you and your group of friends. He takes advantage of what the internet has to offer and puts the pictures up on facebook. Now to review the food. What I had on my visits was the Famous Volcano Hot Chocolate. And when he says Hot.. He means it's HOT. As René explained to me "It's hot chocolate for a reason. Who wants hot chocolate that's not hot?" And I agree with him. The Assortment of chocolate that he makes himself is astounding. From Parmesan Chocolate, to coconut chocolate, variety of chocolates vs. nuts, and White Chocolate with dried kiwis inside. Did I mention the pastries? The cannoli is to die for. You know the saying "Eye appeal is buy appeal"? Well you get your moneys worth by just watching René just plate your dessert. It's like watching him preform. Every saturday he has a live band. The saturday I went there was a man who killed it on the harmonica. All in all, I encourage everybody to come to the Rim, even if it's just once. Because I can guarantee you will leave happy and be telling all of your friends about it like I have. read more

You may have to carry me out of here. The hot chocolates are delicious, you can have coffee in probably one out of 30 different ways and there's always good music playing. On a good day, you may see the owner dancing or playing music. Not a ton of seating, but we always found a spot. Did I mention chocolate heaven??!! read more

The Rim Cafe is a cozy little hole in the wall on the southern edge of the Italian Market. I'm really glad that I'm in book club, or else I'd have never ventured into this place. Hell, I didn't even know it existed, and I only live four blocks away! When I stepped inside (after making sure that I was at the right spot), I was promptly welcomed not only by Rene, the eager-to-please, extremely amiable... owner? host? barista? chocolatier? all of the above?... but also by the warm (albeit fake) fire and my amazing fellow bookclubbers. Even though their space is small, the friendly owners were more than happy to accommodate a group of eight, and for that I am grateful. Now, onto the chocolate. The chocolate! I wish I had words poetic enough to describe the way I felt about that damn chocolate. I ordered the Dirty Volcano, which consisted of a heap of sipping chocolate (various different kinds, most of which were dark and, thankfully, not overwhelmingly sweet) with a dollop of creme fraiche in the center and myriad flavors of chocolate shaved on top. Truly heavenly. And if that wasn't enough to put me into a diabetic coma, I decided to also order a cannoli. Not only was it entirely delectable, but the presentation was adorable. There was even a brightly colored flower made out of different syrups. All in all, a thoroughly enjoyable experience, even with the incessant "You've Got a Friend in Me" playing from their television (that did, admittedly, drive me kind of nuts at the time). Rene, I hope you're ready for me, because I'm coming back to collect my free second round! read more

Holy shitting dick nipples, are you people fucking serious?! I see good review after good review but not one person will state the obvious: the prices are outrageous. Absolutely insane... read more

SWEEEEEEEEEEEEEET lawdy this place is amazing. Havent been there in a long time, surely too long. This place has left a memorable impression off just one visit years ago. read more

Hot chocolate tasted like water. I thought the place was cheesy and gimmicky but maybe you'll enjoy the show. Maybe you'll be drunk like everyone else outside genos and won't notice the difference. *The reason I call it a show is because he shaves several different chocolates onto your cup on a spinning plate. Half the chocolate ends up on the plate and what ends up in the cup is barely a tablespoon that I barely tasted. read more

We were just walking down from Geno's and saw this huge banner of RIM cafe we couldn't really make out what was inside it was dark and cluttered however we saw the guy with the hat who was probably René. The store was whimsical a bit of voodoo a bit of Elvis and Cuban percussion which René played to some latin music. He was entertaining the tourists in the store yelling "make it happen" every few minutes. We were rather amused by it had no idea about RIM except for the fact that he was featured on food network. We ordered a chocolate canoli it was coated with very good chocolate but the filling was a little grainy. We also asked for the recommendation of a beverage ended up going with hot chocolate "dirty with espresso". There was a good amount of chocolate in that drink at the end he shaved in a variety of chocolate blocks from various chocolate regions. That hot chocolate was the BEST hot chocolate i ever tasted - it was not too sweet but rich with great flavors of chocolates. What a find! It put a smile on my face. read more

You're shuffling over to a free table clutching the cheesesteak you got after 10 minutes of waiting in line at Geno's, trying to suck all the warmth out of it. After attempting to eat the steak with your gloves still on you look up across the street and see a sign on the corner that reads "Philly's best hot chocolate". You never did sit down, your butt has been frozen solid for nearly half an hour and the idea sounds painful. So after taking a few bites of your meal you convince your friends to trudge over to this promising oasis of warm, chocolaty goodness. You walk through the door and are transported to another place, another time, and quite possibly, someones living room/basement. A jolly man greets you at the counter and before you can utter what you want, begins talking of the wonders of chocolate. Without looking at the prices you order a volcano, the simplest hot chocolate on the menu and with a flourish, the mystery man behind the counter whips up your beverage with a flurry of chocolate shavings and whipped cream. Narrations aside, my experience at Rimcafe was amazing, Rene (the charmer behind the counter) is quite the barista and chocolatier. He got all the more excited when I pulled out my camera to document his show and one-upped my 40D with his 5D. He then took a picture of my dazzled companions and I and put it up on his facebook site. Yes, the prices are steep, but it's worth it. One of my best random Philly experiences and one I will never forget (can't really forget a $6 hot chocolate). They informed me that they have a 2 for 1 special on Tuesdays so that is when I'll be visiting next! read more

The drinks and sweets are ok, they are way over priced however. Go to termini for conolis, seriously they are amazing.

After freezing to death eating our Geno's steaks, two friends and I popped in for some warming up. The volcano hot chocolate here is certainly worth the $6.00 - if not for the actual drink, then certainly for the process and display that goes into making one. A young man was playing La Vie en Rose on the piano in the back which made the place seem that much more romantic and charming. I could easily find myself here with a knitting project or book, sipping away on decadent espresso drinks. Strangely enough, the bathroom with its red light a pasted photos was a highlight. It's small and cozy - perfect for two or three, but no parties larger than that I would say. read more

A must do in Philly if your a chocolate fan. I worked at Godiva and this man blows Godiva away, world famous lava hot chocolate.

Absolutely wonderful! Renè is so warm, welcoming and fun! He knows how to throw a party. The Rim cafe is perfect for all occasions. I've been here for valentines day, just for fun & even a surprise birthday party for a friend with 15 ish people, the place is small but it worked and was a great time! I'm a big fan of the salted caramel hot chocolate. You must stop by and get a glimpse of the immense creativity going on at Rim Cafe ;D thank you René for bringing so much light to South Philly xo. read more

I've been to RIM plenty of times...I've reviewed him as the most wonderful place I've ever been but this past weekend it just got better and i have to write about it. . . My boyfriend and I like to go there on our special dates, one because we love Rene and his delicious treats but two because of the atmosphere he creates. This weekend was different...We went in for coffee and came out engaged. Apparently my boyfriend and Rene have been working for a couple months to create the most wonderful engagement i could of ever asked for. My boyfriend proposed the idea to Rene a couple months ago and with no hesitation he said yes. Rene went above and beyond with everything....not only did he create a wonderful tower of chocolates and meringues (where my ring was hidden) but he gave his venue to host my surprise engagement party. He was such a wonderful host, he came out a couple times and played the drums to this Arabian like music that was just so much fun to dance to. A few things to say about Rim and Rene...the drinks and treats are extremely delicious and that is because he uses the best of the best...Rene not only is great owner he is a great host...he always makes you feel special even when he is busy....He goes out of his way to make you happy.....if you are looking for something different and just amazing for to RIM...and you will also gain a friend from it...and believe me Rene is someone you want to meet...he will change your life...he definitely changed ours. This is not your Typical Cafe....this is in its own category ...a Magical Cafe with a Spectacular Host. Rene :) read more

The moment you step in this cafe, it's clear you are in a very special place. A place like no other, where time stands still and the only thing that matters is chocolate, coffee, love, and chocolate! Go ahead, indulge... you deserve it!!! read more

This is the best hot chocolate I've ever had! Happy Valentine's Day to everyone. Everyone who comes here gets a free display. I would tell you all about it, but then I would be taking all the fun away! read more

I can't begin to accurately describe how amazingly unique this place is. The BF and I show up and the place appears empty, but walking in it felt like one of the coolest old lady garage sales I'd ever been to. The place is beyond eclectic to down right ridiculously fun. Finally we ordered from the lady and got hot chocolates, cannoil and truffles. The salty caramel hot chocolate was delicious, but the real winner was the toasted marshmallow brule hot chocolate. The guy makes it right in front of you and tells you everything that goes into it. The hot chocolate was so rich that we didn't even get to the truffles, or one of the cannoli's. As for the cannoli... well, I have never been really impressed with any cannoli. I've had two or three from different places but never fell in love. With the first bite of the cannoli I may or may not have had a religious experience in my mouth. It was incredible, beyond words. Rim's cafe restored my faith in the cannoli. Someone previously discussed the price, but these are seriously city prices. I can understand how visitors might see these prices as crazy, but I think $9-14 for hot chocolate is reasonable and 4 truffles for $10, especially for how incredible they taste. The people working were incredibly amazing and very kind. I absolutely recommend going and I am going back soon! read more