We just moved to Bloor West Village from Roncesvalles and I was lamenting the fact that there weren't the same level of independent coffee shops in the neighbourhood. I had heard a lot about Coffee Tree and although it is certainly above average, it is no Lit or Dark Horse.
We were pleasantly surprised by Red Bean. Though still new-feeling and somewhat limited in hours of operation (I like to go for an early-morning Americano), Red Bean has great promise. From the minimal but 'under-the-top' and kid-friendly decor, to the scrumptious and unique-but-not-weird baked goods, the friendly and clearly hard-working proprietor, Iris is doing everything right. Offering almond milk as an alternative, real-tea chai and a black Americano just how I like it: slightly frothy, dark and round.
Admittedly, I like coffee fairly minimal, so I would need to defer to someone with fancier tastes to assess the drinks with longer names Also, I don't really pay attention to how much things cost, especially when my wife is paying.
Iris is on the verge of bringing in Italian Gelato which will be a boon when the hot weather really hits, with plans to extend hours.
For now, though I say hoorah! Coffee problem solved.