Boxcar Social

Annabelle Goodman —

Probably the best Macchiato I have ever had! It was an Ethiopian coffee, full flavored and nicely swirled with milk on top. I get so upset with these places that pile the milk foam a mile high. This was superior coffee. My coffee companion opted for one of the new coffees on the menu. This is an authentic, perfect coffee house. The owners know their product and they keep trying new coffees and only select the best. They rotate the coffees from the best roasters and they know what they are talking about. It is fun to read the menu of coffees available. They even have several tasting choices where you can sample a variety of coffee. I loved hearing a detailed description of the coffee. The management was so pleasant and so willing to fill us in on the details. I do warn you the coffee is served warm rather than hot. Before I could complain it was explained that the full flavor comes out when the coffee is warm, not hot. I think I am now a convert. I really was in ecstasy over that little cup of espresso.

1208 Yonge St – 416 792 5873

The décor is most inviting. I was interested in the irregular shaped table at the back of this coffee house. It was a result of last year’s ice storm. The proprietor polished to perfection a large piece of fallen tree. The table is a creative piece of functional art. Sit at the bar or the back room. Guaranteed you will see folk working on computers or busy in conversation and definitely enjoying some type of coffee. There is also a delightful room upstairs. It might be fun to gather a group of friends to meet in that delightful upstairs for an evening of discussion with superior coffee, wine or beer. Make sure you visit the washroom. It is papered with ancient papers discovered when the building was remodeled. What fun!
 
I like to have something to eat with my coffee. Several types of sweets are available. They all looked delicious but I was intrigued with the Cheese Tray. Three types of cheese with a small condiment dish of different jams made for a gourmet experience. The sour dough bread was outstanding. I loved all three jams. They were of superior quality. Every item on the menu has been carefully scrutinized and selected. Only the best I served here. The cheese was outstanding. The Parmigan cheese was my favorite. I didn’t understand how it comes from a special red cow that now is extinct.  I will now have to return to get that story. Wherever it comes from the cheese was absolutely fantastic The 4 year old Cheddar was closely behind. My friend found the Triple Cream Soft Cheese memorable.  It was so interesting to hear a description of the cheese, jam and the bread. This is a place of love. The owners know their product and market it well.
 
Mid morning on a Wednesday, the inside was filled. Several tables were being used at the charming patio in the back. There was a light breeze and the quiet atmosphere made me forget I was in the middle of the Summerhill, Yonge strip. My coffee companion and I love to get into all the world issues and try to solve those weighty problems. What a great place to relax, feed the palate and enjoy!
 
Not only is this an exceptional coffee house, it is much more. The menu features great new world wines, craft beers and even a whiskey bar. In the evening it is a hot spot to stop for a  little libation.
 
The owners will help you to make your choice. Their full description is part of the deal. It is the best entertainment in town.