Phone: 416-844-1376

Say what you want about the New Apartment Cafe – you can tell us the espresso machine isn’t set up yet, there are better options in the neighbourhood, and forgodsakes, they don’t even have a menu yet. Fine, that’s fair. We’ve heard it all. Doesn’t mean we’re listening – after all, we kind of love the place.

First thing you notice upon entering is the minimalist decor, leaving plenty of space for patrons but unfortunately no chairs or tables to occupy. The friendly staff (of one) offers us a free spot on the wall, and we settle in to a comfortable lean.

We’re told that the menu is still in progress and are led to the refrigerator. Eureka! A bountiful selection of fruit. We sample the ataulfo and find it to be underripe, but satisfying. Meanwhile a mug of fresh orange juice lands in front of us, but the attempt to create a charming heart-shaped design in the froth was less than successful.

If it weren’t for the cheddar loaf procured from About Cheese on Church St, we could be tempted to write off our experience at New Apartment Cafe as sub-par. Fortunately the bread was top-notch fresh and practically leapt into our mouths. Sidenote: the begging cats are charming, if not slightly irritating.

While the selection was less than plentiful and the juice close to expiry, the warm atmosphere was inviting and the red couch quite attractive. Sure, bemoan NAC’s glaring lack of decor, their sparse seating and two menu options, but just stay for awhile. Sip an OJ. After awhile, it starts to feel like home.