The Only Cafe image

The Only Cafe

Restaurant Cafe Bar Vegan restaurant

One of the Most Reviewed Vegan restaurants in Toronto


Address

962 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4J 1M1, Canada

Website

www.theonlycafe.com

Contact

+1 416-463-3249

Price rating

$ $$$

Rating on Google Maps

4.60 (1.5K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Wednesday: 8 am to 2 pm
  • Thursday: 8 am to 2 pm
  • Friday: 8 am to 2 pm
  • Saturday: 8 am to 2 pm
  • Sunday: 8 am to 2 pm
  • Monday: 8 am to 2 pm
  • Tuesday: 8 am to 2 pm

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: great (31) coffee (22) beer (21) good (14) cafe (14) atmosphere (12) selection (11) staff (10) beers (9) Great (9)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Jeong H. 2 years ago on Google
    This place is giving me a speakeasy vibe! The outside might look small and old, the inside is totally awesome and huge. They have so many unique style of beer and cider that you can’t get at LCBO other restaurants. Not only that, their atmosphere is so cool. I wouldn’t say their beer price is cheap for anyone not into craft beer but considering their beer list, I think their price is very reasonable. They have a lot of vintage arts and antique items. Bar service might be slow when it gets busy though. Overall, The Only Cafe is totally worth to check out. This is definitely one of the best beer places in Toronto.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Nathaly S. 2 years ago on Google
    The nachos are delicious to share (2-3 people). The chicken burger is delicious but for the price it should have more vegetables or some accompaniment. The atmosphere is incredible, if you want coffee and a quiet night I recommend sitting on the left side. If you want to have a good beer you should go to the bar on the right side.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Vee 11 months ago on Google
    The first time I came here for coffee, I adored it! Since then, it hasn't lived up to my first rosy experience. That initial visit, I got a cappuccino to go and it was beautifully made with great foam and flavour. When I dine in, it's less good. Often more bitter, watery, and with latte art type foam that isn't as dense or smooth. Also, it seems the barista has changed, maybe? There is one guy who is friendly and makes a better cup of coffee. There is another one who seems to always be having a bad day, and is abrupt and almost rude. He also does not make as good a cappuccino. I felt as if I was bothering him by placing an order. The biggest problem that has turned me off though is the crowds of single people on laptops taking up so many tables, including tables for 4. Toronto in general seems to have an issue with campers like this and I experience it at so many cafes. I do understand having a nice coffee while working, I do. But spending 2 hours with one coffee that was finished long ago? Come on. Everyone seems to treat all cosy Toronto cafes like Starbucks. Cafes here seem very reluctant to enforce a time limit or no laptop policy (during busy hours). It's a shame. I understand some WFH and nomad people may get irritated by such policies, but surely allowing more turnover of tables would be a positive business decision? It prevents other people who just want to sit and enjoy their coffee fresh from having the opportunity. Nothing equals a fresh, hot coffee in a mug, especially in a warm, interesting space that is so inviting and meant to be enjoyed. There have been times I've come into The Only to enjoy a brew only to see every table (and it's a big place!) taken up by campers. I just leave and don't even get takeaway. The area on this part of Danforth is very limited for good cafes like this, and it's too bad it seems to prioritize laptop users over coffee drinkers.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mihir J. 1 year ago on Google
    Really great experience with the team yesterday. A good place for an afterwork team building activity. There was a live band playing which just made it all fun. About the beers, they have really great beers and ciders from around Ontario and Quebec. I really liked the cream ale from the st Ambroise brewery. Also, the monalisa looked almost original.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Vlada M. 1 year ago on Google
    Great atmosphere, interesting authentic interior, good coffee and tasty tea! The prices are also very reasonable.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Owais A. 2 years ago on Google
    I was looking to grab a coffee and this cafe was near by so I had to give it a try. I ordered a dark roast drip coffee, an iced latte, and. this chocolate chip-coconut bar from their bakery (forgot the actual name of the item). The coffee was great and hit the spot. The iced latte for some reason didn’t have any sort of sweetness to it, maybe I should have asked to make it sweet. Regardless, the iced latte still wasn’t too bad. The chocolate chip-coconut bar was tasty and I’d recommend trying that if you’re in to those particular flavours. Cafe is nice and clean, lots of cool photos and artwork on their walls. Staff was also nice.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Lucy N. 9 months ago on Google
    Came here for open poetry mic night. It was a great experience, and the atmosphere was so sweet and welcoming. I'm glad I came. There are two parts to the only cafe, the bar and the cafe. Two vibes, but still chill and cool. You can bring outside food and enjoy the drinks! What a great place for the community!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 WAY EASY L. 9 months ago on Google
    The Only Cafe is the most popular cafe/bar in this neighborhood. It’s less than a min walk from Donlands station. I really like the coffee and pastries here. Their salads and yogurt/cereal jars are also very yummy (vegan& gluten free) ! The atmosphere is great, very warming and cozy. They often have events and bands playing live music. It’s a great place to relax, to meet people and to hang out with friends. I come here mostly during the day for coffee, but if you like beer, they have a huge collection of beers. Great fun in the bar. Highly recommended!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Anna P. 1 year ago on Google
    I love this place soooo much. so many great memories, and good times there. hanging out with friends, dates, or just by myself. today I visited the first time after pandemic, and I was delighted to discover that the cafe acquired some extra space - so now there are two rooms for the cafe part and one for the bar (which stays open later, and has an impressive selection of beers and other drinks). the decor is super cool, unique and original art: posters, pictures and paintings on the walls (although I wish there were less portraits of Che Guevara, I am not the biggest fan of the Butcher of Havana, but oh well, obviously the person in charge of this joint is). many choices of non alcoholic beverages: impressive espresso bar menu plus cold beverages. and there are so many pastries - sweet and savoury - and cookies to choose from. I love the atmosphere there - very chill - people who come with groups of friends, couples, or just people sitting by themselves with laptops (wi-fi available for guests) or books. an eclectic mixture of furniture which effortlessly looks perfectly together. there is a patio in the back (most likely closed for winter, but awesome to check during the warmer months). plenty of washrooms in the basement level (not accessible - only by stairs) with some interesting art inside as well, plus some wisdom left by current and past guests. I don't drive so I am not sure about parking options, but it is just steps of Donlands subway station. totally worth a visit. this place is a legend.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Ryan C. 1 year ago on Google
    Great selection of drinks and great prices. The staff however absolutely ruined the experience. Tyler gave my girlfriend a dirty rag used to wipe tables when the can he opened sprayed in her face. Lindsay was screaming obscenities at us when we left because we didn't tip enough.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Desi R. 9 months ago on Google
    Heard it was a great place as I was visiting from out of town. At 1st was great with my friends on the patio and a few that I met for the first time. Went to grab a drink for my friend because he said he wasn't sure why the female bartender wasn't being nice. He went inside when he showed up and wasn't sitting with us as we were there before him. So I didn't take his word for it and went in myself to get him a drink. He was right about her. I had the $7 in my hand and she grabbed the 5 without checking and realized what she did when she reached the till and came back and grabbed the rest from my hand. Not sure why but the guy bartender was great. The worst part is, just after 2:10 am she was cleaning the tables and just blurted out, "Hurry up and drink and go". As a Canadian musical artist that always shows respect, it's worst I've been treated in Canada and other countries. She probably didn't make enough tips. I guess that's her fault. Not my place again
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sima H. 5 months ago on Google
    This cafe is a cool place to hangout with friends or do some personal online stuff.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Justin Q. 2 years ago on Google
    This place has an exceptional beer menu. 20 or more taps from all over Ontario, and a carefully chosen selection. The bartenders were super helpful with my crippling indecision and provided samples. Best prices for beer on the Danforth.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Nouha “Clair de lune” A. 1 year ago on Google
    Absolutely amazing! The place is beautiful, cozy and the staff are friendly. I loved the place and enjoyed my time there. Definitely will go back again. I highly recommend this cafe to you #toronto.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Colum D. 1 year ago on Google
    Great bar near Donlands station. Wide choice of beers on tap and an extensive selection of drinks are available. The staff are really friendly. The beautiful patio out back is a great place to relax on a sunny day.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Keith D. 3 years ago on Google
    Lovely spot for coffee along the Danforth. They also grind beans on site for you to take home. Great staff too! My favourite place to visit after walking around Greektown.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Khadione S. 2 years ago on Google
    A close friend told us about this place so we decided to check it out. Great place to grab a drink and some snacks with friends. We had our 5 month daughter with us and they were accommodating, and didn't make us feel like we were a burden. Also their nachos were absolutely delicious! Definitely recommend for anybody.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Vishnu R. 1 year ago on Google
    Lovely wee space to have a few beers. Their selection, both on draught and cans is pretty amazing, they even have a cask pull. Tyler who served us was very easy going & I think the other person who served us was called Max, she had great knowledge about dark beers & was fun to discuss beers with. Been a couple times and noticed the clientiele is also usually pretty good here and the atmosphere super relaxed. Definitely going back for a few more pints soon
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 NY C. 7 months ago on Google
    One of Torontos hidden gems. Lots of amazing beer on tap. Came here for Blood Brother’s Summer Jammers Limited Release. Environment is more on the edgy side but hands down best bar on Danforth

  • 5/5 Paul P. 1 year ago on Google
    Definitely one of the top 5 bars on Danforth, love this place and atmosphere. The bartenders are all great, Lindsay is the best what a gem . Highly recommend and will always be back!!

  • 5/5 avery w. 7 months ago on Google
    I came here while visiting a friend and it was a great place to visit. The atmosphere is so cool and welcoming. The bartender Lindsay was so sweet, she was amazing to my friend and I. The other bartender, Christian, was also fabulous and made great drinks. I will definitely return when I come back to visit!!!

  • 5/5 Sean H. 6 months ago on Google
    Best hangout in Toronto. Super relaxed vibe. It's easy to meet other friendly people. Fantastic rotation of beers on tap. Often great music. Wonderful patio out back. Half bar / half cafe.

  • 5/5 Tara M. 5 months ago on Google
    One of my favourite cafes, I worked remotely from here for a few weeks. The staff are wonderful, the vibe is super chill and homely and everyone has a great attitude. If you're lucky you'll catch someone on the piano too :) Ps. the loaves are delicious.

  • 5/5 Shaya G. 9 months ago on Google
    This is a great pub + coffee shop. The pub looks really cool. Their drinks are priced really well and they change their tabs once a week. I love the staff, they are very friendly! Also, once a week they have live music!

  • 5/5 Maryam E. 4 months ago on Google
    A true hidden gem. Grab your laptop, come sit in this cafe/bar for hours and work/study. Staff are lovely. Atmosphere is warm and welcoming. Selection of beer and coffee/hot drink are great. Kitchen is closed but they let you bring outside food. I will be back here every week to work and meet up with friends.

  • 5/5 Ben L. 2 months ago on Google New
    Large, cozy space with delicious treats and great-tasting coffee.

  • 4/5 Jennifer L. 2 months ago on Google New
    First time here, so there are no servers, you have to go and pick up your own drinks, it is a very quirky place, but it was very loud at one point, but I kinda enjoyed the laid back feel.

  • 5/5 Jim D. 10 months ago on Google
    Friendly, local pub with a good selection of beer and a decent snack menu. There's a unique feel to the place with three or four different seating areas. Live music a couple times a week.

  • 5/5 Tom L. 1 year ago on Google
    Been staying at the backpackers inn above the bar and cafe for over a week. This place comes with so much for a great value. The bar has a great atmosphere and a beer menu that is constantly changing giving a fresh variety of drinks, just don’t get attached to a beer! If you manage to get a drink from the cafe, Isabelle makes a beautiful cold brew and iced latte, consistently saved me from the late nights at the bar, highly recommend. great cappuccinos too. Absolutely stellar service from all the staff, thanks for a great stay.

  • 5/5 Caitlyn D. 1 year ago on Google
    great coffee grounds, ambience, rotating beer selection. it's our go-to spot. you can bring in your own food, and the staff is always amazing. i'm genuinely sad that the weather is colder because the patio is A+. The Only is such a fitting name.

  • 4/5 Shannon C. 1 year ago on Google
    We enjoyed our breakfast here. It was basic and tasty enough. The flat white was quite excellent. Will definitely go back!

  • 4/5 Ka N. 2 years ago on Google
    I only had a machiato which tastes unexpected, but didn't really others. I am sure it is good. Great place to hang out. Parking near the location doesn't quite exist, only street parking.

  • 5/5 Rita “Reetaville” S. 2 years ago on Google
    One of my favourites for their outstanding selection of beer and cider on tap and laid back atmosphere. I certainly hope they don't close!

  • 5/5 Jeff K. 2 years ago on Google
    Great beer, nice staff and setting. Coffee available as well till late. Excellent spot.

  • 5/5 Kyla W. 2 years ago on Google
    Good cafe/bar with a welcoming but energetic atmosphere. I happily saw a sign for mini vegan croissants when I was there but they were sold out--which is good! They generally do have a couple vegan options in their cafe pastry etc. selection, which I definitely appreciate. There is a patio area in the back (maybe 6 to 8 tables?) and a couple tables in the front, so if you're looking for sit outside your odds are pretty good.

  • 4/5 Deepanshu W. 2 years ago on Google
    Good place for a casual night out. Tried their sloppy Joe and liked it. Portion size isn't huge but is good for the price. Also appreciated the large beer selection.

  • 5/5 Mairi B. 2 years ago on Google
    Great beer, great vegan food, great service. Amazing back patio!

  • 5/5 Kyle F. 2 years ago on Google
    First time coming here for coffee. Usually came here for beer prior to COVID lockdown. We got a Cafe mocha and London fog tea. Milk in the mocha can be hotter and less milk in the tea. Not bad though. Mocha is sweet how I like it. Pastry nice, soft, and flaky. I would come here again for a quick coffee.

  • 5/5 Marty F. 2 years ago on Google
    Friendly staff, awesome selection of craft beer, clean hostel, good location.

  • 5/5 Nikolas K. 2 years ago on Google
    Super artsy/hipster vibe from this place, and you cannot beat the patio. The food is inexpensive and great. Note - kitchen does not start taking orders on weekdays until 2:30.

  • 5/5 De-colonizing A. 2 years ago on Google
    Brilliant space offering ample room to enjoy coffee, drinks or dining according to Province wide COVID protocol. Staff is friendly, and helpful. The space has a great feel as it is the equivalent of two storefronts and has two backyard patios, including a previously converted parking space.


Call +1 416-463-3249 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Payments
    • ✓️ Debit cards
    • ✓️ Credit cards
    • ✓️ NFC mobile payments
  • Offerings
    • ✓️ Beer
    • ✓️ Food
    • ✓️ Wine
    • ✓️ Alcohol
    • ✓️ Spirits
    • ✓️ Cocktails
  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible toilet
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible seating
    • ✗ Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible entrance
  • Dining options
    • ✓️ Seating
  • Service options
    • ✓️ Dine-in
    • ✓️ Delivery
    • ✓️ Takeaway
    • ✓️ Outdoor seating

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