My laziness prevents me from exploring cafes. I know that amazing little oases of calm exist around Toronto, offering wifi and delicious baked goods but locations seem just a bit too far to purposefully lug my computer and book to. Sometimes though, a spare 30 mins in an exactly right location allows for a charmed encounter with a wonderful coffee spot. While being early for an appointment, I yelped to find that Colette Grand Cafe at the Thompson Hotel (550 Wellington St W, Toronto) was nearby and I ducked into their bakery quickly for a light bit of breakfast.
If the pastel blues, mixed with yellows and smooth Mediterranean music doesn't make you feel like you're by the beach side in France then the sight of various croissants and pastries will sure to get you the rest of the way there. With a good mix of savory foods, bread options and desserts, Colette had a lot to offer and the decision was a hard one.
I had already eaten a real breakfast that morning but I figured that my 6am workout allowed me to pick something so long as it was a 'good for me'. Though I eyed the Peanut Butter Chocolate Croissants very very intently, I chose the Seeded Fife Croissant ($3.75CDN) and sat down with my book and phone.
At 8:30am, Colette got a steady amount of foot traffic and people picking up teas and viennoiserie to go. The seating area was plush, extremely tranquil and aside from me, only in habited by two other people. I felt like I could have sat there for hours.
There is also a very cleverly done outside seating area. Though right next to the side walk and street, the latticed walls and ceilings gives the illusion of seclusion and distance from the road.
The Bakery is an attachment to the Colette Grand Cafe which serves more substantial fare (at a more substantial price). Sitting in the picturesque and quiet cafe was a reminder of the ways that surrounding can impact mood and sense of self. Even though I was doing nothing more complex than sitting, eating and reading, the contentment that came from a perfectly set dining area and a wonderfully buttery croissant was decadent. I am definitely interested in going back to the Bakery. If nothing else, that PB Chocolate Croissant is seriously calling my name.
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