Toronto Coffee Shop Series (#5): Mercat Del Carmen (full of Spanish vibe)

As mentioned in my previous post, I decided to create a Toronto Coffee Shop Series to remember the good old days when I can drink coffee.

The cafe I am going to feature this time is located on Queen Street West in Toronto and it is called Mercat Del Carmen. This gem is very close to Toronto's famous local hang out - Trinity Bellwood Park, which was where I used to spend many summer days.

A few times, we actually purchased food/drink items from Mercat Del Carmen and picnic at the park. It was such a fun way to spend a leisure day.

Mercat Del Carmen is actually part cafe and part retail shop. It is adjacent to its sister restaurant Carmen (fantastic Spanish food by the way). This cafe is full of Spanish vibe and they serve excellent espresso and pastries as well as a range of sandwiches, salads and sweets.

Although seatings are limited - just a couple of benches/table while the coffee and pastry case occupy most of the floor, it was still very enjoyable to grab a seat (if you are lucky) and to do some people watching while enjoying your caffeine and snack.

As you can see, this place is so intimate and full of character. In particular, I have a thing for floor tiles and checked out that Valencian tiles in the photos!! Also, that beautiful wall painting is absolutely stunning.

Here I was, arriving early in the a.m. and enjoying a creamy Spanish coffee made with espresso and milk. Their cortado is great as well - an espresso cut with a splash of steamed milk - if you like a stronger morning treat!

On a side note, the retail space at the back has a lot of goodies and imported pantry staples - smoked meat, house-made sauce, canned seafoods, olives, and aioli.

Hope you enjoyed reading this piece. If you are in town, perhaps, to check out this spot frequent by the Toronto locals.

Until next time - adiós.