Toronto’s nightlife seems to centre on the bar scene and the trendiest bourbon of the year. It’s not so easy to find lively spots to hang out after work or catch up with friends if you don’t drink. Why not kick off your second wind with a little caffeine instead? Here are some hotspots for a sober-friendly night out on the town.
For Leslievillers, Tango Palace Coffee Co. is a favourite late-night hideout. A fixture since 1993, this warm and cozy café has a loyal community who came for the coffee but stayed for the music and the crimson velvet armchairs. Not your average hipster hangout, Tango Palace brings a Victorian style to the Queen East strip, boasting ultra fresh micro-roasted coffee in addition to a wide selection of teas, hot chocolate and other warm bevies. For last minute snacks, they always have some homemade pizza and salad, but their specialty is their pies and brownie cakes. Open ‘til 11 pm.
Snakes and Lattes is Toronto’s official expert board game cafe.. If you’re looking for an original first date idea, or just to geek out a little, this is your spot. For just $5 per night, you can stir up a little competition with strategic games, trivial pursuit or something more nostalgic. It’s also the one and only home to the Nutella latte (yes, we’re drooling too), but you can count on some healthy snacks, like the fennel almond salad. Overall, a fun spot for a spirited night without spirits. Bonus location at 600 Bloor Street West.
Voodoo Child has become the “it” spot to meet after work or maybe even to meet someone new. This trendy cafe has cleverly made itself into a hotspot for morning and night. Voodoo’s team of coffee and culinary connoisseurs make this a reliable source for a late night pick-me-up espresso or a Sloane tea. If you’re looking for the energy of a bustling bar, but with alcohol-free options, Voodoo Child is a good bet. You may even get some award-winning latte art in your cup. They’re open until 11 pm weeknights and 2 am on weekends.
A long-time mainstay for the Annex crowd, Future Bistro (sometimes lovingly called Futures) is a bar, restaurant, bakery and café offering a little something for everyone. With lots of seating, a welcoming vibes, and more reasonable prices than most, it’s no surprise that Future Bistro has become a beloved stomping ground, especially for downtown university students. Their claim to fame is their made-in-house cakes, pies and tortes, making this a great choice for a late-night dessert date. Future Bistro is open until 1 am most days and 2 am on Fridays and Saturdays.
If the Danforth is where you call home, The One Espresso bar (conjoined with the popular bar The Only Cafe), is a prime spot for sober, late-night hangs. An extension of The Only Backpackers Inn, the One opened to provide the growing bohemian community with quality coffee, as well as a friendly, pub-like space to retreat to after exploring the city. Help yourself to some baked goods made in-house or the snack plate with small savouries like cheese and samosas. For sipping, select from various teas, hot cider or even kombucha on tap!