The Sovereign Cafe

On the Grid : The Sovereign Cafe (Take Out)

"This is the second Sovereign location, and although smaller in scale, it maintains all its charms and serves the same quality espresso based drinks, coffee and baked goods. Take-away only (though there is a small counter, and ample space outdoors to linger…)" - Michael Madjus & Aisle 4

On the Grid : The Sovereign Cafe

"Born and raised in Davenport Village, childhood friends Rosario Salvi and Gianfranco Voce founded The Sovereign in May 2012. These two Italian gentlemen are committed to serving excellent coffee (Rufino blends) in a welcoming a warm environment. In 2013 head chef Anthony Menna joined the team; the café now offers brunch, house-made snacks, and baked goods (the pistachio cookies are heaven). The Sovereign has evolved into a pillar for the community (think Cheers), acting as both a meeting place for local residents and business owners, and a destination spot for espresso aficionados." - Michael Madjus & Aisle 4

"The Sovereign Cafe, Davenport Village by Michael Madjus & Aisle 4. Born and raised in Davenport Village, childhood friends Rosario Salvi and Gianfranco Voce founded The Sovereign in May 2012. These two Italian gentlemen are committed to serving excellent coffee (Rufino blends) in a welcoming a warm environment. In 2013 head chef Anthony Menna joined the team; the café now offers brunch, house-made snacks, and baked goods (the pistachio cookies are heaven). The Sovereign has evolved into a pillar for the community (think Cheers), acting as both a meeting place for local residents and business owners, and a destination spot for espresso aficionados."

sorores

Google

What an interesting concept for a coffee shop! I was looking for coffee and breakfast in the area on Google maps and this spot came up. When I parked on Davenport I couldn’t tell if it was actually open (as google had said) because the storefront was really dark and almost blocked off. it was around 11am so I assumed it would be and walked to the shop. It’s a walk up coffee shop with their food “menu” displayed on the window, no drinks menu though. I also read some reviews that they sell out of stuff quickly but they had quite a few items still available. They had some breakfast sandwiches (made to order) and lots of pastry options. Docking a star because there’s no prices listed anywhere :( I ordered two egg & cheese breakfast sandwiches, an almond croissant and two oat vanilla lattes. The total was $30 which is very reasonable in 2024 and relatively cheaper when compared to other local coffee shops in the west end. It was about $5-$6 per item which I only knew because I watched the screen as the barista rang up my order on the till. Service was really great! Despite it being a walk up, friendly baristas greeted me as soon as I walked up. Food: sandwiches were awesome (5/5), pastry was huge, flaky and tasty (5/5)! and the coffees were average/on par to many local coffee shops in the area (4/5). My feedback would be to add menu pricing and have some sort of open sign so people on Davenport can tell it’s open. I would totally return bc of the pricing, friendly staff and good food!

Kimberly Daley

Google

I had heard about the pizza so today I tried the margarita...Ah-mazing! Crispy crust and just the right amount of super fresh sauce...and what tops it off is the consistently nice and friendly service we get each and everytime. Breakfast sandwiches btw are next level...legit amount of bacon

Victoria Alves

Google

The scones are next level! Coffee is great, other baked goods are also delicious, but if you don't get their scones... big mistake. 10/10. P.S. They also sell Bar Ape gelato bars - super tasty!

Katherine B

Google

Had a latté. Not only is this place take-out only, it’s a walk-up so you can’t go inside. No pastries were available to test out. The coffee was good but the service was lacking. A ‘hello’ or ‘good morning’ would’ve been nice.

Gio Lamancha

Google

The best pizza in the neighborhood as well as wonderful people who make you experience exceptional! Especially, Rosario he is the master or great experience and authentic pizza!

Silver Thorne

Google

Chill locale. Nice staff. had my hopes up for some quality eats (due to other reviews I'd seen) but apparently they've been simplifying their Manu to coffee, lattes etc and whatever pastries they got for the day. Had an olive oil cake ( which was good and a first for me) and a single Americano (also good. Very Smoothe.) I' ll have to come by another time to get a better feel for the place.

Nick Akkanen

Google

Had the best chococlate chip cookie today the lady was super nice will def come back soon

YYZREVIEW

Google

Probably one of the best Roman style pizzas in the city. Very good you could taste the authentic fresh ingredients with the burrata.

Ash P.

Yelp

Our neighbours at Futura, have recommended this place for pizza several times and so I finally placed an order for two slices, the vegan slice and the Margherita. We live in the area so it was still warm when I got home and boy oh boy was it f*cking great pizza. It was fresh, crunchy, flavourful, and a great size for $5.50. The door di latte was amazingly fresh, it's ridiculous! My partner enjoyed her vegan slice as well and raves about the tomato sauce and the slight hint of spice it had. I really commend this place because not only do they have vegan options but also gluten free options and at reasonable prices and great portions. This has blown other pizza places in the area out of the water so if you're looking for some great delicious pizza, look no further because this is the place to go! We'll definitely be back and I look forward to trying their coffee too!

Nada S.

Yelp

Ok now there are no words for how amazing this place is. Literally I'm trying to find them but it seems I must have a tear in my "bag of tricks" and they have all escaped. All I can say is...wow! The coffee was out of this world. I had a flat white which arguably is almost as good as the ones I had in Australia where the drink originated. And the baked goods and breakfast sandwiches, oh my. I had to literally get almost one of everything. Only thing I wish they did was warm up the breakfast sandwiches. But then again I didn't ask for it that way so maybe they do. Who knows. Well there you have it folks. If you're driving past this joint and are thinking...I wonder if they're nay good. The answer is...STOP WONDERING! PUL OVER IMMEDIATELY, LIKE NOW! And get it all and I mean alllllllllllll. Oh and you are welcome.

Mandy A.

Yelp

Such a hidden gem! This place is quaint and cute and has the BEST blueberry scone in all of Toronto! Their coffee is amazing - try the double Americano for a great hit of amazing flavour. Also must trys:. Chocolate croissant (super flaky) and their Chocolate Chip Cookies are to die for. This is my morning spot and I definitely miss it when I can't make it!

Nixi M.

Yelp

Amazing Pizza! Stopped in on my way home work after a friend recommended it - I only bought a few slices and a bottle of wine for home. Next time I am going to plan in advance and order a full pizza

Sam D.

Yelp

Nice and intimate little cafe. Hipster ambiance. You can get some hot food. We got the patty and the quiche (both vegetarian). I enjoyed both. Eat them while they are hot! Didn't try any of the drinks. There's about 16 seats. Wifi speeds at 96/9. I didn't see any electrical outlets. Nothing special, but solid local spot.

Charene G.

Yelp

Love the coffee, the service and the baked goods they bring in (Blackbird I believe). For a year I was complaining about my coffee maker whenever I made coffee at home. I would walk to The Sovereign once or twice a week and treat myself to proper coffee. Then I got smart one day and also bought a pound of their coffee to bring home. Turns out it wasn't my coffee maker after all. But I still can't make scones so haven't stopped my weekly visits. Great neighborhood spot - both locations (Davenport and the Oakwood location).

Patricia V.

Yelp

Where everybody knows your Name and your "usge". Cosy place where I have lost many of my productive hours due to just wanting to hang out. Staff is very knowledgeable and bang out a great coffee. If you're afraid to get sucked in like I was, check out their Oakwood location which take out only. Both locations are great and I'd recommend it if you're a fan of great coffee!

Araya U.

Yelp

Okay, can we talk about what a mean latte these guys can make? Seriously solid milk-frothing, flavor-adding, and espresso-pulling! I've had a couple of vanilla lattes from The Sovereign now, and every time it's been pure magic. The foam is oh so smooth, and the proportion of milk to vanilla to coffee is just perfect. Their food selection, for a coffee shop of their size, is quite large. Along with the standard pastries you'd see in a coffee shop, The Sovereign has a handful of savory options: a quiche, a breakfast sandwich, and even a breakfast empanada (pro tip - super delicious!). They've also got a small fridge of soft drinks/lemonade and breakfast parfaits. Not a coffee drinker? No problem! The Sovereign ALSO has a healthy selection of teas! Considering this cafe seats about 10-12 people total, it's great that it caters to so many! The seating is a bit tight, and while they don't turn the music up too loud like other cafes sometimes too, noise from your neighbor's conversation may travel to your table. However, I've managed to get a couple of school assignments done in the middle of the week as well, so during non-peak hours, it is definitely work-friendly. My only minor complaint is that they are a bit on the pricey side. But perhaps it's because I just moved here from the US, so they just appear high in comparison? With just two sizes (a single and a double) at prices upwards of $4-5, this adds up quickly for coffee addicts like me. But every time I get a sip of that latte, I'm reminded - they are oh so worth it!

Kristy K.

Yelp

It's the best latte I've had! Better than back home in California honestly. Cute and quaint ambiance! Food is tasty! Thank you Sovereign!!

Tammy C.

Yelp

I love this place. They are so friendly. The drinks and food are absolutely incredible. When they are doing hot food, it's so delicious. The chef is extremely talented. The pistachio cookies are addictive. And, what makes this place special is that they aren't just making coffee and treats. They're creating community with regulars and easily welcoming new and one time guests. The first time I stopped thee, my friend had forgotten his wallet, the owner was very kind and said pay me later. My friend ran home and got his wallet, and when we went back in, the owner was so laid back and friendly about. How kind and compassionate. It's been a great spot for me to meet dates, clients or just bring my iPad with me to enjoy cookies and their complimentary wifi. I highly recommend The Sovereign.

Mary R.

Yelp

Everything I've purchased here is delicious, very cool selection of imported wine at their Davenport location.

K.C. A.

Yelp

Best drip coffee in the city. A great neighbourhood coffee shop. They serve really great coffee and are super friendly. I usually order a latte and it's delicious. My husband gets an Americano and says it's strong (just like he likes!) They have a bunch of tables and usually have some free ones where people open laptops and set up shop for a bit. They also have a little Sovereign outpost I Oakwood at Davenport. Not sure it even has a sign besides "Coffee" but it is also great. My favourite part of the Sovereign is the cozy atmosphere. It's my favourite coffee shop in the area.

Elle R.

Yelp

3.5 stars** Very nice coffee shop in this neck of the woods! Very good coffee and kind service. Pretty small so it could be hard to find a seat in peak hours but it is super cozy. Coffee is on pricey side but they have very nice brew and flavour that will definitely give you your caffeine fix for the afternoon and enjoy the mellow playlist throughout the day! Only downfall is that do not offer wifi in evening or weekends which is a buzzkill. I know the m-o for that just is a bit funny in my opinion and what if your wanting to watch online tv or something? Hmm

Hyemi L.

Yelp

This little store is unnoticeable on the road. but a very cute shop. Staff are also friendly. Interior : I like this Interior style. comfort, vintage and rustic. Music : I can listen to an older style of jazz How do you like your coffee, strong or weak? This coffee has a smooth, rich taste :D

Pina A.

Yelp

Every independent coffee house needs personality and vibe. In this case, the shot ain't worth the pull.

Nicholas B.

Yelp

Went by the other night with a friend to just chill and catch-up and had an amazing cheese plate with some great crafts and killer Old Fashions made with Earl Grey tea. Service was spot on. Heather holds down the house. Looking for a local, intimate spot that delivers both caffeine and cocktails? This is it.

Kristian U.

Yelp

I was in the area and desperately needed to find a place to put down roots for a few hours and get some work done this weekend. I'd driven past this spot on Davenport and from the outside looked full, but thankfully decided to venture in anyway and was blessed to find additional seating towards the back. The Sovereign is a small, quaint coffee shop, whose aesthetic is somewhere between a classic Italian/Portuguese cafe and some of the more modern reclaimed wood rustic cafes. There is maybe 10-15 seats in the space so if your plan is as mine was, be sure you plan a backup as they can get busy here (especially on weekends). I'm not drinking coffee/espresso right now so I asked for decaf version of their Americano (my go to coffee beverage) and was surprised to discover that I could in fact pay debit here - they keep it hidden to encourage cask payment. The Americano was thick and lovely and the decaf espresso held up against the hot water it was mixed with - it tasted so close to the real thing my body couldn't tell the difference. The also have free WiFi but I did struggle to find an outlet to plug into for my laptop, so ensure you have a full charge if you're planning to stay for awhile.

Zack S.

Yelp

A great coffee spot on Davenport. While cycling by during Doors Open Toronto, I skidded to a halt and plopped my bike on the side of the building. Upon entering the quaint, new, open coffee shop I asked for mu usual, a single expresso with a splash of water... oh and some regular water since my allergies were killing me. I moved myself to sit infront on their bench and began having a conversation with a gent who turned out to be Ross, the owner of The Sovereign. Ross was full of information about coffee and provided a great hour of thoughtful discussion. Currently they have two types of beans a softer flavour or fuller flavour bean, and I wish I could tell you the subtle differences between the two, but I only got the soft flavour. I can tell you that it was delicious. If you are in the neighbourhood, you should definitely make this your usual, and even if you don't live close by, worth a stop by, if not for the food, for the great conversations with Ross.

Matthew W.

Yelp

UPDATE! They now accepts Interac! (I don't need to steal from my laundry money anymore) The Sovereign features excellent beverages and tasty treats. The decor is interesting and the staff is great. My personal favorites are their Americano and the Cheddar and Chive scone.

J. C.

Yelp

The best coffee shop in the neighborhood. Excellent service and great staff. Coffee is second to none and my personal favorite, the pistachio gluten free cookies are worth the visit alone!

Justin T.

Yelp

The Sovereign is a cute coffee shop that's located a little off the beaten path for me. I dropped by based on past reviews and I wasn't disappointed! The interior is very well decorated with a cute TTC coin machine at the counter! I ordered a latte and the barista made my drink with care. Plus points for the use of recyclable cups and lids! The coffee itself was delicious and very smooth. We sat outside on the cute bench and watched the world go by. It seems that The Sovereign is a very popular spot as there was a constant stream of customers coming and going while we sipped our coffee. There is limited seating at the front, but there is additional seating at the back, just behind the cash. Can't wait to try another coffee here very soon!

A A.

Yelp

I try and stop in here whenever I'm in the area. The staff are always friendly and easy to talk to. The coffee is as good as it gets. So many other shops use the same brand (Ruffino),but, few have it as dialed in, as consistently as these guys. I can't speak to the pastry options as I don't really eat much of that sort of thing. They do appear to be the standard Circle and Squares, offerings. I understand there are plans to expand the menu into the pizza realm in the near future. I'm sure with their attention to detail and care for their product, it will be delicious.

Erich S.

Yelp

I stopped in to check out the place and had a really nice machiato. They take debit! Cozy but lots of seating inside and out. I got there late so most of the baking was gone.

Daniel D.

Yelp

Great espresso, friendly staff, homemade pastries and sandwiches. Would love to come back for brunch on the weekends but that will have to be another time.

Sandis O.

Yelp

Haven't been to the Dufferin location, but their satellite location on Oakwood is a tiny slice of heaven. Wonderful service and excellent coffee.

Mahna M.

Yelp

Really good americano and a couple of gluten-free snack options. The place is a little small, but has a nice atmosphere. Free wi-fi and free street parking. Also, nice customer service.

Brian Y.

Yelp

My favourite coffee place in TO.!!! Perfect coffee* (teas, too); delicious selection of sandwiches, scones and cookies, sweet or savoury tarts (mostly made in-store, yes!); cosy seating and intelligently cultured ambience (Italian, of course) make for an enjoyable refuge just slightly off the beaten track. And, to top it all off, a wonderful trio of owner/barista/chefs in the kitchen and behind the bar, who are constantly innovating and always fun to gab with. The brunches are excellent, too. And should you want a tastily adventuresome gelato, they feature Bar Apé ice cream bars. (You might try the blueberry dipped in a tarragon white chocolate for starters) ---- * - I once made the mistake of asking for just a little more water in my Americano. Won't do that again. Trust them totally! ;o)

Diana O.

Yelp

Highly recommend!!! I was introduced to Sovereign a couple weeks ago for brunch and I haven't been able to stop thinking about it since. I had the breakfast bowl and a latte, then they made us a French toast with strawberries (I'm not doing it justice, it had a fancy glaze, etc). Service was great and it's worth the drive for me to go again!

Angela N.

Yelp

I think the coffee here is the best in the city. They definitely take the most care and have the most old-school Italian knowledge in terms of how to make a good espresso and Americano. Huge fan of the gelato bars they sell as well.

Ian B.

Yelp

This is a great spot with amazing coffee and friendly staff. A true neighbourhood gem. Easy to stop out front and grab something to go, or meet friends and hang out in the quiet and warm, inviting seating area.

Jason D.

Yelp

An oasis of caffeine goodness in an otherwise desolate area of Davenport. As another reviewer noted, definitely not a pretentious hipster coffee place, no holier than thou baristas giving attitude... just a great friendly little neighbourhood gem of an espresso bar.

Zoe C.

Yelp

Much needed spot in the neighborhood! I have sweet dreams about the chocolate orange scone. The soy latte helps make the ride to work on the horrendous 29 Duff bus survivable in the morning. Nice no nonsense vibe, delicious espresso and lovely pricing (we moved here from west queen west.... $4 shot of espresso anyone?). Go to The Sovereign!

John N.

Yelp

Good coffee beverages, chill staff and good amount of space for you to work on your laptop, have a meeting with a co-worker or just enjoy a nice meal with your friend. Didn't try the food. Will order some brunch or at least a sandwich from them in the future of course. Oh and their prices seem pretty reasonable :)

Amy P.

Yelp

MUCH needed addition to the neighbourhood. The owner is super friendly, and the coffee is great. Beautiful space, too.

Genuine C.

Yelp

Hey Guys, I come here almost every morning for my usual. They know my order by heart and make the place feel like a relaxed place to wake up. NOT A PRETENTIOUS HIPSTER COFFEE PLACE. Their coffee is thick, rich, and the sugar stands on top of the foam like it should. These Italian guys are from the neighbourhood and can be trusted. Loyal customer from day one.

Domenic I.

Yelp

Great place and definitely my favourite coffee spot in Toronto. Espresso is creamy and rich and the lattes and cappuccinos are always delicious!

Lauren M.

Yelp

Super happy this place exists in the neighborhood now! Friendly owner, good space, good coffee (and the lemon & ginger scone is amazing!) Things are a TAD pricey and they could serve some other food too, but overall, awesome!

Fajinder S.

Yelp

Great cup of coffee, rich and creamy. Nice premises too. There are closer cafés to my home, but I really don't mind walking the extra mile to get here for the quality coffee.

On the Grid : The Sovereign Cafe (Take Out)

On the Grid : The Sovereign Cafe