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| - Jimmy's is the newest coffee joint in Kensington Market, and a definite sign of its gentrification. There is air conditioning, for instance -- a first for a kensington coffee shop?
Because of its newness, there is a lot of gloss. I wonder, though, about the institutional ability. The barista has a bad attitude, and I can't identify the owner (Jimmy?).. not a good sign for a new place. If the owner is bored, the place goes to hell. Every time.
Another incongruous thing about the place is that it's positioned itself as a high-end cafe, but when there is no hint of "coffee nerd" culture here. The barista didn't want to discuss why he was upset I asked for a ristretto. (It seems they pull allongé here, montreal style, without really asking...) Again, this isn't a good sign.
Yes, the muffins etc are great. But nothing is made in house.
Altogether, there is a kind of Starbucks feel about the place. High prices, disgruntled workers, purchased baked goods, bottled juices.
On the other hand I'd much rather be here than at Starbucks!! The coffee is still better, and the decor and music is better. Perhaps the best thing about the place is the huge skylight -- creating wonderful light inside for reading or working.
So, 3.5 stars for now. Let's hope there isn't a genteel decline in the next year. Am I being too harsh? Jimmy, where are you?
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