Restaurant: FIKA Cafe
Location: 28 Kensington Avenue, Toronto, ON M5T 2K1
Price Range: $
[wp-review]
In Sweden, Fika means having a break, usually for coffee and the FIKA Cafe in Toronto is the perfect place for a coffee break. Tucked away in Kensington Market, it is not near any main streets with cars roaming around, so this coffee shop is an ideal spot for studying or reading a book.
I love the simplistic, all white and airy decor of this place. The patio and front seatings are more for individuals who love to enjoy their brunch and quick coffee break. Whereas at the back there is a communal table, a chalkboard wall and a wall fill with book pages, very quite and comfortable – perfect place for studying :). If you want to enjoy some nature and get away from the loud noises of the city, there is a private garden at the back with a hammock!
I have been to FIKA several time, and service was always efficient and friendly. In general they keep the space really clean, except for some occasion where the tables and seats are a bit dirty at the front. Additionally, FIKA only offer free wifi after 3PM and you have to ask the waitress for the password.
Named as one of the best iced coffee in Toronto by cntraveler, of course I had to get the iced coffee, and I was impressed! Initially I didn’t like it, as the mint and cardamom were quite an odd pairing with coffee, but I grew to love the flavor. The drink itself was very aromatic from the cardamom and not too sweet. I didn’t think the mint was needed as the cardamom already added a spicy and herbal kick to the coffee.
I can’t remember what type of scone this was, as they have different choices for the day. I remember having another scone with a raspberry jam and they were just the average scones. Maybe it’s because I usually come around 2PM as the scones didn’t feel fresh anymore. On both occasions, the scones I got were cold, hard and very dense, however they weren’t too sweet and went well with a cup of coffee.
The lavender white hot chocolate was another specialty of FIKA, and it wasn’t my favourite as I don’t enjoy anything with lavender. I know you might ask, why did I order this when I don’t even like lavender? The answer is that I tend to try things that I don’t like, because what if the restaurant/bakery was able to make it palatable for me and change my mind? I find lavender is too strong and artificial. Also, white chocolate isn’t chocolate lol, it’s pure sugar so this drink is very sweet.
Nonetheless, I appreciate that the barista was able to accommodate me as I wanted lactose free milk, but FIKA only had soy milk. She was afraid that using lactose free milk might change the taste of the white hot chocolate, so she let me know that if the drink doesn’t taste good, she can make another one for me.
While the sweet offerings at FIKA didn’t satisfied me, the drinks were good and they are known for their drinks. Likewise, I say definitely give the lavender white hot chocolate a try, it’s just one of those things you have to try at least once. I have to give points for their minimalistic decor and friendly services as well. If you need a place to escape from the chaotic and busy streets of Toronto, come to this place and relax with a cup of coffee and a book :)!
*I need to mention, not sure what’s the backstory of the pony but some of their cookies and decor were in shape of this pony lol. Someone tell me!