Coffee is one of the most commonly consumed beverages in the world, and according to a new study published by Harvard University, drinking coffee lowers the risk of diabetes, heart disease and other life-threatening diseases by 15 per cent! Well, we’re on board!
For coffee lovers it’s not just about gulping down a cup of java though. Often the environment is just as critical as the rich, toasty flavour of the bean. In Toronto’s Forest Hill neighbourhood, The Mad Bean Coffee House is the area’s favourite meeting places among the local coffee enthusiasts. Located at 519 Eglinton Avenue West, east of Warren Road, this independent coffee shop was opened in 2009 by Brian and Lisa Roxborough, a husband and wife team, who dreamed of opening a comfy and inviting coffee house with cool music in the background, local art hanging on the walls, bookcases filled with books and, most importantly great coffee.
Walking into The Mad Bean, it is obvious that the Roxboroughs have succeeded in making their dream a reality. There is warmth and comfort here creating an inviting vibe that says “come on in and stay a while”. The eclectic mix of furniture, brick walls covered in art pieces and music playing softly in the background make it an ideal place to settle in, catch up with a friend or get some work done.
So, are they mad about the beans? We say, Yes! This delicious cappuccino is proof. It was rich and smooth with a toasty chocolate flavour. Perfectly executed and good to the last drop. The beans are roasted by Stouffville’s Velvet Sunrise Coffee Roasters, one of Ontario’s best. The Mad Bean worked with Velvet Sunrise to tweak flavours and have developed a house line of beans under the label Steampunk Coffee which you can pick up and enjoy at home. The cafe also offers a selection of pastries, loafs, muffins as well as light bites such as bagel sandwiches.
Beyond coffee, we love that Mad Bean is a huge supporter of the local arts community. The coffee house shows support for local artists and photographers by featuring their works, changing the installations monthly. For the music lovers, the cafe features live music during Saturday and Sunday afternoons. Could this be the “Central Perk” you’ve been searching for since the days of Ross and Rachel?
Photo courtesy of The Mad Bean
It’s no secret that we urbanites love our coffee and the demand is met with new independent coffee shops and big coffee franchises popping up all over Toronto. With that comes a lot of competition, so considering that The Mad Bean have been holding their own while competing with Second Cup across the street and Starbucks one block east proves that quality and authenticity goes a long way, even if you’re the “little guy”.
The Mad Bean Coffee House
519 Eglinton Avenue West, Toronto
Tel. 647-235-2456
Monday – Friday 7am – 5pm
Saturday 8:30am – 5pm
Sunday 8:30am – 4pm
Along with one of our faves like The Bagel House, The Mad Bean Coffee House is yet another lovely spot to discover in Forest Hill neighbourhood.
~ the urbaneer team
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