White Squirrel Coffee Shop

This is a great spot to grab a cup of coffee and squeeze some work in / have a conversation with friends. The upper level seats around 14 people comfortably, and there are a ton of outlets around. The coffee (I had a flat white) isn’t bad either - they use SJCB beans! I didn’t try them, but they sell a variety of pastries and empanadas as well!

Overall I had to give this place a 2 (I’m being generous). My daughter got her usual macha drink, which was a small and it turned out to be over $9. For that money, you better give me a large cup. Yeah, I get it, you’re on Queen West (congratulations!). The price for a cappuccino was ridiculous too and looked just a little bigger than an en espresso, so I said forget it. As we were walking, my daughter took a sip and said did she even put a vanilla in this thing (no flavour)? She just threw it out. Obviously the girl was having a bad day or needed a coffee herself to wake up (no personality). All I know is that there are tons of other places on Queen to get a great cup of coffee and you’ll have great staff and a great drink. This is the first and last time I’ll go to the White Squirrel. It’s right across from Bellwoods Park for those who are interested, but keep walking. You’ll find another coffee shop in a few steps.

I love their butter croissant, it has a strong butter flavor and it’s on the softer side. I don’t like giant crunchy super flaky croissants where half the pastry crumbles and flakes everywhere. Absolutely top one or two croissants I’ve had in my life so far. So if you have a preference for buttery softer croissants I recommend! I just prefer softer textures overall and this is my go-to croissant spot. (Soft isn’t soggy!!!) I also love their cold brew, it’s mild and easy to drink but flavorful. It’s not sour or bitter and it’s pleasant to drink. I haven’t tried a lot of things on the menu but I always order these two items.

Stopped by this cozy coffee shop before our walk through Trinity over the long Thanksgiving weekend and had such a great experience! I ordered a hot matcha latte and a large coffee, both were delicious. I loved that they have an outdoor order window, and the person working was super friendly, helpful, and made great conversation. Such a nice start to the day!

Friendly staff. Coffees are great, always the right temperature. Great seating area too! Don't miss the brownie if you're in the mood for something decadent.

Perfectly located opposite Trinity Bellwoods, with a convenient street-facing window for quick coffee pickup. I ordered a medium drip coffee with a splash of milk and paid upfront. I chose not to leave a tip given the simple, quick order. The server then turned rude, made the drink sloppily and literally shoved it at me after. Will not be returning.

Stopped in while my wife was working at the vendor market in trinity Bellwoods and everything I got was great. Flat white was perfect, ginger lemonade and sausage breakfast empanadas was a hit with my wife. Will be back next time we're at Trinity bellwoods.

Waited like 15 mins and the line wasn’t moving as one of the baristas was having a personal convo with some customers which was inconsiderate of everyone else in the line. The barista reached out the windows to pet two dogs and gave them treats and after the dogs licked him he wiped his hand on his jeans and went back to touching the equipments and cups without washing his hands. For overpriced coffee i sure hope you guys follow proper food handling procedures.

Such a cute little coffee shop! It felt like a vintage school and it was so fun to sit in the balcony and look out onto the street! I got a lavender lemonade and it was so good!

Cute little local spot to stop in for coffee. The interior is super cool where the seating overlooks the coffee bar. The whole space has a classic nostalgic school feel which I loved! The have a great variety of pastries and serve ice cream too. We got the lavender lemonade which was so refreshing in the afternoon! Good service and overall local feel.

Quick window stop along the park tried a vanilla latte and cinnamon latte. Personally the cinnamon had way more flavor. Many of the pastries looked delicious so we may have to stop there again soon. Not a large space to sit inside but just across the street from the park. Coffee was prepared quickly and staff were so friendly making small talk while waiting.

Long line up on a Saturday afternoon. I got the iced Americano and honey crueller. The honey crueller is tasty

Coffee taste amazing! And their Croissants are the freshet ever. Staff are really polite and nice.

A convenient stop this morning for coffee and pastries! Service was quick and the barista was very friendly. Vanilla latte with oat was smooth and delicious. The croissants were extra flakey and buttery, perfection! It's not a sit down place, which was perfect since we were out site-seeing.

You don't go to the White Squirrel to work on your novel, or even to catch up with friends. The seating is extremely limited, and that's on purpose. You go to the White Squirrel because you're going to Trinity Bellwoods Park literally across the street, and you go because they have the best marshmallow ice cream this side of the Mississippi. Their coffee is great too, but that Greg's roasted marshmallow ice cream is a revelation. Yes, I know you can get Greg's elsewhere. But you can't get Greg's ice cream, a rich, deeply flavourful shot of espresso, and a walk through one of Toronto's most vibrant and sprawling urban parks all in one place anywhere else in the city. Trinity Bellwoods Park and the White Squirrel's relationship is the best evidence of symbiosis I can think of right now. In part, that's because I love coffee more than science, but also because the White Squirrel makes Trinity Bellwoods an even more lovely experience, and because the White Squirrel wouldn't be what it is without that park across the street. The proof is in the name - the White Squirrel refers to a handful of albino squirrels that have been spotted scampering up and down the trees. I've seen them with my own eyes. They're cool. Like Greg's ice cream. Get a hot drink from the White Squirrel during the winter months to warm up during a cold escapade through Toronto's favourite snow-covered park, or get a scoop of ice cream to keep the heat at bay on a hot July picnic with friends. Either way, the Squirrel's there for you.

Friendly service and great coffee. Take a stroll through the park across the street. A perfect morning routine for those in the neighbourhood.

Love white squirrel! Go-to coffee spot around Trinity Bellwoods, they have a really versatile menu and the staff is always friendly. The ginger lemonade is the perfect drink for a hot summer day.

This little coffee shop is directly across the road from Trinity Bellwoods Park. It's quite small and they only had one man working, but I soon realised why I was waiting. The barista was taking time to talk to every customer individually and call them by names if they were regulars! I think that's how these indie shops survive vs chain stores. I noticed that there was a hatch window onto the Main Street for customers who had bikes or dogs, cool! There was a very varied menu including ice cream and affogatos but I went for a flat white with lactaid milk. The barista then chatted to me about how he was surprised the milk foamed as well as it did. His whole manner was polite and made you feel involved instead of talked-down to. The decor was great, simplistic but clean and had murals of the squirrel and the map of Toronto on the walls. The music was oldies, which I LOVE, and the shop was filled with happy conversation and smiling faces. Brilliant. Would recommend if you're anywhere near the area!

Super friendly staff and an absolutely delicious iced mocha! Hope I get to visit them again.

Cute little place! Stopped in for a coffee on a chill spring evening and enjoyed my Americano. Coffee was smooth and had a nice finish - YAY! White Squirrel offers a small selection of baked goods and sandwiches which looked tasty. They also have communal seating on the upper level, would be a nice place to come and do some work/hang out for a bit :)

Delicious organic coffee. Tasty pastries. And a few random (useful) things like bone broth or face masks. One of the best coffee shops in the West end, perfectly located across Trinity Bellwoods.

Great coffee shop on Queen Street. Love the interior and very good coffee. Typical 3rd wave coffee. Funky atmosphere.

Pros: Tuna sandwiches, Price, Variety, Unique design, Community feel, atmosphere, Wifi, plugs for computers, Wonderful staff, COFFEE, lattes Cons: Music a bit loud, Very hot inside during summer, Not wheelchair accessible Summary: Great little spot, makes you feel at home. One staff member did make me feel guilty about celebrating Canada day 150, I understand where they were coming from but it's not good customer service. Been twice so far and would go again if I'm passing. It's great for studying

My husband and I were in the neighbourhood and decided to grab a coffee from here based on the amazing reviews. First off, I would like to admit that I am not an avid coffee drinker, nor is my husband. We both tried their regular coffee (mine was decaf). We both agreed that the coffee was wayyyy too weak and actually tasted like flavored water. I actually opened the cap to see if there was only water in my cup, maybe they had made a mistake! Regardless, I would never go back here again.

Right in front of the Trinity Bellwoods park, you have two choices of coffee that isn't your normal commercialized coffee. You have Sam James and White Squirrel within 2 doors. I wondered how good White Squirrel would be compared to Crafted on Ossington which is quickly becoming my favourite for West Toronto. For those who are tldr, good flat white but I still prefer Crafted and Jimmy's on Ossington for Toronto west coffee. The cafe is quaint and tiny ... it honestly feels like someone's old tiny living room (and probably was). There was one barista working on the Saturday afternoon and he has a chill attitude... even the aggressive guy in front of us who couldnt wait patiently for his cappuccino. The barista made real no attempts to interact but thats ok as we were still defrosting from the bitter cold. He did brighten up when a clear regular hopped into the store. He made our flat whites with a bit of a wait but we didnt mind. The cafe has a single medium sized communal table on the upper area. It may sit 7 people at most and everyone will hear your conversation but a seat is a seat. It's clean and not overly crowded. I wouldn't recommend to work here necessarily. The flat white we had was pretty good but we noticed the barista spilling the espresso while pouring the milk into the cup. From appearances, there was less care compared to Crafted and Jimmy's on Ossington. As for the flavour... definitely good. Medium acidity and minimal bitterness. Good balance between the espresso and milk. I would say it's a decently good cup. Is it my favourite to break into the top 2. No... not really. Crafted had a better flavour and just a better overall service. Bonus points though to White Squirrel... they carry Greg's ice cream. I can see this being incredibly popular in the summer!

Great little cafe! Conveniently located right across Trinity Bellwoods park. They have great coffee and several delicious ice cream flavours. If you're not sure whether you need a wake up jolt or a treat, get the affogato - it's a scoop of ice cream with a shot of hot espresso poured over it! Amazing!

This place was on the radar for a bit as they sell Greg's ice cream so one need not venture out to the other outposts to get if you live in this area. My friend did order it while there and went for an affagato for flavor that's named after this place. Ice Cream was good espresso was not (too bitter) I stuck to the Cappuccino so here is the verdict Espresso: Bitter Crema': Average Milk: Frothed OK Latte Art: average 2.5 Stars all said and done. Also of note is that the place is not quite clean.

Here's another review about coffee from someone who doesn't know much about coffee! Overall the cafe experience was pretty adorable; the flat white I had was decent. They had almond and soy milk, as well as lactose-free. The affogato was not a great idea... Looked a little gross in a take out cup. You can choose between one or two scoops of Greg's ice cream for this. Unfortunately no vegan flavours at this time, though in the summer they have more flavours. Food options were so so and limited. The seating area required stair climbing, so not very accessible. And there weren't a lot of seats -- a giant table in the middle, and lots of people doing work quietly. If you want a library-like spot to be productive, this might be it. Otherwise take your coffee to go. Washrooms are upstairs too and gender neutral. Convenient spot to stop and refuel if in the trinity bellwoods park area. Though a Sam James Coffee Shop is two doors down, though there's even more limited seating there.

Flat White was very good. Woman working was easy going, nice (always appreciated). Interior has 2 levels, good spot right across from the park. Open till 8 pm would be great, sometimes the hours are finicky, leave before closing, etc.

Super sweet staff, good coffee and convenient set up. They even had treats for the dogs which was an amazing added bonus! Highly recommend.

I placed my order for a flat white, hot chocolate, espresso macchiato, and a hot water. As I was placing my order with the barista (male), he responded in a snarky tone, "You know they won't stay hot right? But I'll make it anyways." I was like "WTF?" in my head. Did you just give me attitude? No shit that it won't stay steaming hot, the weekend was the coldest weekend this entire winter. You don't think I know that? And no i'm not walking around downtown carrying this take out order. I'm jumping back into my car. I smiled and just said "OK". When I got to pay, the barista/cashier (female), was SUPER nice. She added up all the drinks in her head, pretty quickly I was impressed. She told me also that for the hot water, it would be 50 cents for the cup. Makes sense. But I ended up with only 3 of my 4 drinks. The barista (male) that was making my drink forgot the espresso macchiato. And he was standing around playing on his phone. Professional eh? While reading this, you would probably picture someone that's a punk/hipster in his 20's. But NO! He looked like 30's, early 40s. You would think he would know better than to play on his phone in front of customers right? Anyways, coffee wise, was quite weak in my opinion. But I guess it's because I prefer stronger coffee. I did like that they used Harmony milk. Curious to know if the Rosedale location is the same or better.

People are willing to wait at this lil' coffee shop. With good reason, it's decent. What makes it great, though, is it's ice cream in the warmer months. The toasted marshmallow is the tops.

Location: I don't really know what neighborhood this is considered to be, but there are hipsters, if that helps. Street parking available (checking zoning) and I think you may be able to park on side streets but I'm not 100% sure so check those signs. The place: It's very small but I quite liked it. First of all, they have a take-out window and that's just awesome in a super efficient kind of way. They have a few tables on their upper level but I didn't go up so can't confirm how many - like I said, the place is small so seating is likely to be prime real estate. They do have a bench outside, and there's also a spot to the left of the place where you can sit. If I were you though, I'd head across the street to the beautiful park that awaits you. Now, as for its name - apparently there's an elusive white (i.e. albino) squirrel who allegedly lives nearby and very few people have seen him. So this place is named after that squirrel. The more you know. The goods: I ordered a flat white and it was awesome. It was SO creamy and delicious - I forgot to ask which beans they use but really, who cares if my coffee is good? I also ordered something that looked like a scone but wasn't.... It had the same texture and look but was egg based. It was pretty darn good for someone who woke up famished, the morning after the U2 show. It was a little heavy so definitely filled me up. My friend came by later and had an Americano and liked it. Service: Good. Price point: I think the flat white was $3.50 and the non-scone egg thing was about $3. This place is a great spot to get some decent coffee - check it!

The counter is confusing n there is no much space to accommodate a line of people. Nevertheless the staff manage it pretty well. I got a cappuccino n the caffeine in it was very good. The milk foam wasn't perfect but the caffeine kick sufficed. Not much space to sit, it's kind of cozy. I prefer to hav some space as I intend to work n study while having my coffee. Otherwise, it's a fine little place to grab a coffee on the go!

Convenient for a take out coffee but thee place was too noisy to stay to work...which is a shame because the open and high celinged room is inviting. The wifi wasn't working... but what got me was how many flies were buzzing around the sitting area.

Its a cute place. Fast service with decent music. I got a lemonade - it was lemony :) and the fizz caught me off guard. But still very good. It was really warm by seating area. Possibly warmer than outside -.-.

Awesome coffee, cute barista, and good location (right in front of the park). Space is kinda tiny and it's all upstairs. They have this coffee pick up window, and for some reason it brings a lot of flies in, which is kinda annoying. I wish their space set up is better!

This place was more awesome when I thought it was called Coffee Shop and not White Squirrel Coffee Shop. Seriously though, I dropped in for a coffee and they ran out of coffee beans so gave me an Americano instead. I had a not so good Americano earlier in the day and was hesitant but accepted. It was actually damn good and didn't taste like burnt ass. The place looks small and cramped with limited seating and I opted for my Americano to go. They probably have some awesome people watching in the summer though as it's across from Trinity Bellwoods. I'll be back though as I did like my coffee more than the chains to go on the Queen strip from the WQW all the way down to Spadina. Thanks for the wake me up barista lady!

Queen Street West has a pretty decent smattering of cafes, but i'm going to go on and tell you that you should just head for the White Squirrel. Not elusive at all like its namesake, it's smack bang across from Trinity Bellwoods Park and easy to get to on foot/streetcar. My usual bet is for a soy latte - and I love getting it to have in the cafe because you get a wee denim cup sleeve for your glass! I've also had the flat white, which is a killer. I can't speak to the range of snacks/ice cream as I don't think i've seen a vegan option there. But i'm always about the coffee when I drop in. During the warmer months, I love grabbing my latte to go and heading over into the park to grab a spot on a bench and enjoy the sunshine while caffeinating. (There's even a little to-go window to order if you fancy - although it's not exactly much further to step into the cafe and make your request.) In the colder months it's tricky to find a spot in the cafe, but a latte to go can still warm the hands and heart. Clean surroundings and lovely decor in the cafe (lots of exposed wood), it's quite nice when you *can* get a seat. Washroom facilities are available, and are clean. A very high 4 stars, only a couple of things holding me back from 5 - lack of seating & the quality of the latte can sometimes waver depending on who's making it. I've never had a BAD latte here though. White Squirrel! C'mere and let me cuddle you.

Love that it is open much later than other coffee shops in the city, because sometimes you're just craving at coffee at 8pm! Really cool atmosphere inside, and lots of space to sit and catch up with friends. Since they directly across Trinity Bellwoods Park it is nice to sit on the bench upfront and watch the people walk by. Or take your coffee to go and stroll through Trinty Bellwoods- a perfect summer activity. And I recommend getting a flat white, it is perfect!

With so many places to get coffee, the only giant pull to go here again is the ice cream I`ve heard so much about. The espresso was ok. Something I might have again if I wanted a coffee and had no other place to go along that strip. True enough it is inexpensive as far as cups o `joe`s go. The problem is the layout, too. There were two people ahead of me and that was enough for me to think, `Ì`m going to get whacked by the door everytime someone walks in.``

Not a fan. The coffee is decent, but I wouldn't say my socks were knocked off. The staff felt kinda pretentious; it just felt off. The muffins looked good, but they also look like how I'd make them at home. They might taste good, but i did not try. as for the coffee, i had a flat white. it tasted like a solid coffee. i think this place probably is a decent place to chill, i think it could be even better to chill if it had space for seats facing window. nevertheless, it wasn't very loud inside, so probably alright to meet peeps. there are plenty of places to get coffee downtown, so this place isn't my fave.

One of the places that makes Trinity Bellwoods what it is today. White squirrel is a gem with great staff. I've always gotten things to go, but there are beautiful seats in the back with a window that opens up to create a soothing breeze on humid summer days. They also have the service window to the street which makes things amazingly convenient. The great coffee should be mentioned, since this is a coffee shop. They also have homemade baked goods that are delicious.

Friendly service, nice atmosphere, will definitely come back again. Got an iced coffee and it was delicious!

One of my favourite coffee shops! They use organic milk, from what I understand. Flat whites are delicious. Iced lattes are delicious. Service is always really friendly. Best place nearby, even with the new competition spawning up next door. Highly recommended!

Honestly I do not understand the high reviews of this cafe. I went in with 3 co-workers on Tuesday at 9am. There was no one behind the counter, loud rap music was playing, all the baked goods were sitting out uncovered, dirty dishes were littered behind the bar. We stood there for 5 minutes, said hello and no one came to help us. To make matters worse there were milk jugs upside down in steaming pitchers which is against health codes. It was a dirty disgusting shop. It should be seen by the health board.

I have nothing but positive things to say about The White Squirrel Coffee Shop. Not only is the coffee/espresso incredible and the muffins delicious, the barista is a very kind human! After waking up to no heat in my apartment on one of the coldest days in Toronto, my morning was very chaotic. I showed up to get a coffee on my way to work and forgot my wallet! The lovely gentleman at the bar said "you can get me next time you're in" and proceeded to fill my coffee order and packed me up an amazing muffin to go. It's these incredible moments of kindness that make a business go from somewhere you buy coffee to somewhere you feel cared for! Thank you!!

I arrived about 20 minutes before closing and ordered an Americano, but he said he had already shut down the machines and could only offer me normal coffee- okay, that was fine. The coffee was nothing spectacular and was overpriced. They have Greg's ice cream and are across from Trinity Bellwoods park, so I would come back to grab an ice cream to take to the park but probably wouldn't come back for coffee.

Have you seen the white squirrel? This Queen West coffeeshop is named for the albino rodent celebrity of Trinity Bellwoods park. Like a rodent, the café is pretty small and feisty, but unlike a rodent the staff won't gnaw on your belongings or infect you with the plague. I don't think. They do a mean espresso here (I recommend the flat white), and as an added bonus they serve many flavours of Greg's Ice Cream. And unlike Greg's they aren't cash only, so you can CHARGE that toasted marshmallow! Even though they have free Wifi, it's not an ideal spot for settling down with your coffee as seating is limited to a short (and oddly-shaped) communal table and a three-seat bar. But with the park right across the street, you might as well take your latte to go. Obligatory Title Pun: "If it ain't WHITE it ain't right." (As my pappy used to say.) Menu Readability: Crazy cool magnets on a whiteboard. Need to mention: This cafe is open "late"! Closes at 8pm. (Also, my pappy is not a white supremacist. I don't even have a pappy.) What this place teaches me about myself: Did you know that squirrels in captivity can live up to 20 years?

My absolute favourite coffee shop on Queen Street West. I'm a very simple customer who only orders black coffee to go, but the quality is always high and the service always excellent. I like the general atmosphere of the place, which is relaxed and fits well into the neighbourhood. What I like about the coffee is hard to describe, but it definitely has a light feel with a good hard edge.

Everytime I visit my barber (Garrison's) located just above, a stop at White Squirrel is essential. I've yet to stop and stay in to work, but when I'm jonesin' for a strong-ass Americano to perk me up - there is no better place. Free wifi, lots of seating available in a cool little loft space a few step above, And the music is always on point and trendy. The Americano is super strong. Like put hair on your chest strong - I think I've still got heart palpitations today after having one yesterday, score! But I love the staff here the most, friendly and conversational each time I've been, far more effort is put in than the standard small talk, without being intrusive. OH oh!! and simple syrup available so you can sweeten you coffee without measuring spoonfuls of sugar. Bonus! Was gonna give it 4 but screw it... Writing this reminded me how awesome my experiences have been. High- 5 for you little squirrel. Eatcrest out!

White Squirrel has two good things going for it: greg's ice cream and a killer homemade iced tea. Greg's ice cream needs no explanation, it was rather genius of them to serve this wonderful stuff across from Trinity Bellwoods. However, on the couple of times I've had the roasted marshmellow it has been rather soft...any softer and I would have had a milkshake! The iced tea made in-house is a delight compared to other places that simply take a tea bag and dunk in ice and hot water. It's an orange peakoe base steeped with bengali spices and a wee bit of honey. Very refreshing! Seating area is minimal and sparse. And what's up with promoting hand held breakfasts-what does this mean exactly? Enquiring minds want to know.

What's up with the name White Squirrel? I don't know, but my girlfriend spotted a little brown mouse there yesterday. Maybe they should re-name it the "Brown Mouse". Anyways....good coffee, wonderful ice cream sandwiches, rodent friendly environment. If you take away the mouse, I think I could really enjoy this cozy little cafe.

It's located in a nice area, I came here in search of hot chocolate (the original intention was to head for Morocco's, but since it's tucked away in Yorkville and we were by Trinity Bellwoods, we decided to try something new). Squirrel offers a selection of coffees, hot/cold drinks, and ice cream (they carry Greg's ice cream). Overall ambiance is quaint, casual & simple - west queen street ish - with a small sitting area on the ground & upper floor balcony. I only ordered hot chocolate, so I can't say much about its coffees, but I was shocked that a small cup of average tasting hot chocolate cost $3! You don't really get what you pay for - I would definitely rather head for Starbucks for a vente hot chocolate that costs less than $3 and tastes the same, if not better.

White Squirrel is definitely one of my favourite coffee spots anywhere. The reasons are simple: - The coffee is always delicious - a perfect latte or a perfect americano awaits you here, people. - The staff is friendly, efficient and not pretentious. - Biodegradable/environmentally friendly cups. - Delicious muffins and treats (try the lemon corn bread muffin, I'm not sure if it's vegan though, whoops) - The prices are competitive, cheaper than Starbucks, that's for sure. - For those of you with an ice cream craving, they serve Greg's Ice Cream! Bonus: they stay open later than most of the other indie coffee joints (in the summer they turn off the espresso machine at 8:30, 8 in the winter) thereby ensuring I am no longer reliant on the Starbucks or Second Cup down the road. Only two things would make White Squirrel better: - vegan ice cream (but I do realize this is incredibly rare and possibly asking a lot) - a bigger tea selection (including more herbals). I think they only had about six tea options when I was there last. Ultimately, this place is worth a visit and one of my favourite neighbourhood spots to pick up a latte before I wander around the park or the 'hood.

White Squirrel is one of the very few places in Toronto whose coffee I genuinely enjoy drinking as an aficionado and not someone in need of caffeine. The espresso ($2.75) was executed perfectly and had a delightful fruity aftertaste, something I truly savour and have scoured far and wide. Most places in Toronto go for ridiculously burnt-tasting beans, but not White Squirrel. The place is run by the former owner of Aunties and Uncles, my favourite brunch spot, and is situated right on Trinity Bellwoods. Perfect. What else is there to say?

Today I had THE BEST MOCHA IN CANADA courtesy of the White Squirrel. White Squirrel, you have literally taken my breath away! (Which by the way, literally hasn't happened in quite a while!) Coincidently, my friend literally saw the white squirrel today across the street at Trinity Bellwoods Park. SO YES PEOPLE! THE WHITE SQUIRREL DOES EXIST! :)