Hailing from Europe, how will this cafe chain resonate with Torontonians?
By Kristian Tofilovski
Exterior shot of Columbus Cafe, located on the corner of Adelaide St. W and John St. Taken on Nov. 5, 2023. (Kristian Tofilovski/CanCulture)
Columbus Cafe, located at 283 Adelaide St. W., opened its first location in Toronto on Oct. 17 and is slowly working on establishing itself as part of the city's cafe scene.
Since becoming the first cafe chain in France, the chain has expanded to 250 locations worldwide, with its newest location in the heart of Toronto’s Entertainment District, making it a great place to visit when in the area.
With its warm overhead lighting and modern atmosphere, the cafe provides a comforting environment to work or socialize in. Its signature yellow accents and adorable mascot can be found throughout the cafe.
Ranging from pop to alternative, a wide variety of music plays throughout the cafe. However, some may not find it enjoyable. "I really enjoy the look of the cafe, but in all honesty, the music isn't exactly what you'd expect for a cafe, I find it slightly loud and distracting," said a customer.
"I'm not sure why they're playing Barbie Girl," said another.
However, the cafe's spaciousness makes up for it. There are a variety of seating options available, including standard wooden tables and chairs, as well as small booth areas accompanied by pillows and soft seats.
"I'm staying at a hotel right now," said the customer. "I've found that in Toronto, the cafes tend to be pretty small, so having one with a large amount of seating is nice."
The menu includes a variety of hot and cold drinks, desserts, pastries and sandwiches, making it suitable for any time of day or weather.
Its prices are also relatively similar to the average cafe in Toronto, with most drinks ranging from five dollars or less, excluding tax. A single espresso costs $2.75 and a double is $3.45.
The food can be more expensive, with the sandwiches and wraps ranging from $5 to $10. The pastries, however, were five dollars or less. The cheapest breakfast sandwich on the menu costs $5.50.
The menu at Columbus Cafe. Taken on Nov. 5, 2023 (Kristian Tofilovski/CanCulture)
The drinks come with mixed reviews. "I've tried both the cold and hot drinks here, and to be honest, I found both were slightly underwhelming. I think a fair critique would be to say that it tastes slightly watered down," said one customer.
"I don't have any issues with mine," said another customer. "I ordered a tea, which, as someone who doesn't drink it often, didn't leave a bad impression."
The food, on the other hand, received mostly positive reviews. "I had a ham and cheese sandwich yesterday and despite my feelings about my drink, I really enjoyed it," said a customer.
A hot drink from Columbus Cafe with its signature mascot decorating the cup. Taken on Nov. 5, 2023. (Kristian Tofilovski/CanCulture)
A chocolate hazelnut cookie from Columbus Cafe. Taken on Nov. 5, 2023. (Kristian Tofilovski/CanCulture)
One thing is for certain, though: The cafe provides excellent customer service. As you enter, you are immediately welcomed with a friendly smile by the cafe employees. The employees demonstrate excellent patience, giving you space to carefully choose your order. The service is speedy too. "I got my drink probably a couple minutes after I ordered it," said a customer.
So, if you’re looking for a cozy spot to work, chat or simply enjoy a quick drink or meal, Columbus Cafe is definitely worth the try.