While seating may be limited, it's easy to see why. I don't live in East Village but every time I go, I understand a little bit more about what it's like to live there. Residents of the nearby condos are fortunate to be able to stroll to their favourite coffee shop to catch up over a latte and even enjoy a delectable dessert. Groups of friends and family gather at the large wooden tables and stay for a while.
The feel of this particular coffee shop is unlike any other. Most of that is due to the building itself. Visitors to the Simmons Building have the choice of three different companies: Sidewalk Citizen Bakery, Phil & Sebastian's and Charbar. The warehouse features an open concept that encourages the intersection of these three businesses and intermingling as well. This kind of atmosphere feels fitting for a coffee shop such as Phil & Sebastian's and wouldn't quite fit the bill if it was a Starbucks or other large international chain.
Being a history buff, I love how these three businesses came together to utilize this beautiful old building and bring character and modernity to this historic site.