A problem with the Bay Street neighborhood is that a lot of people do not recognize it as a true neighborhood and it has a hard time acting like one. Currently blighted by construction, with high rent for retail businesses, the only sort of operation that appears to be able to survive here are the franchises, many of which are ageing concepts and not very warm and inviting.
I like a good cup of coffee, but I am tired of Timmys and Starbucks and the Second Cup.
One bright spot in the local landscape is the recently opened Aroma Expresso bar, at 1110 Bay St. (at Charles). This is a franchise, but it also has the positive, lively atmosphere of family owned mom and pop operation. It is also attracting a desirable demographic: students and sensible young urban professionals (does such a thing exist ?)
Service is quick and efficient, the servers are polite, the owner friendly. The coffee is strong and of really good quality. The pastries are really good . The space is rather angular, but clean and bright. This place is a welcome addition to the area.
Now I must get back to the The Save-A-Soul Mission.....