Out & About #145 | Milano Espresso Bar

​​It's no surprise that Toronto houses an astounding number of coffee shops.

Of course, there's always Starbucks for those that enjoy their PSL and GL in the fall/winter months (or Timmy's for those who don't tend to stray too far from tradition), though it's nice to switch it up every now and then. Change is never easy, but has the potential to result in unthinkably positive outcomes.

​I've walked by Dark Horse Espresso Bar several times at this point, and had even entered it to take photos. The intention to order had been present, until I discovered that my existence was completely ignored. Indeed, it was a coffee shop with very little light able to penetrate through the basement windows, however, this does not automatically mean that customers lacking height will automatically be ignored amongst other cafe-goers. I recall taking one long gaze at their menu, and even contemplating their Apple Cider, before striding out without a second glance.

I've since ignored the cafe, and have taken my business elsewhere. Taking a detour route one somewhat chilly afternoon led me to Milano Espresso - which is not to be confused with the Milano from Australia; this one is located on Adelaide.

​The exterior of the cafe was rather intriguing: a short flight of narrow, steep stairs led upwards to a cafe embedded in the side of a rust-hued brick building.

 Half expecting the inside to demonstrate as few light sources as Dark Horse, it was pleasant surprise to find that Milano was not only brightly lit from all angles, but also offered a small window to allow natural light to penetrate through and into the bar. It was a mighty fine choice of location, if you ask me.
(Side note: the Toronto Fire Department is located right next door, so there's nothing to fear even during pre-daylight hours.)

​Largely furnished with a varying range of wood-toned pieces in conjunction with a stark white wallpaper, Milano retained a certain sense of indescribable sophistication that I commonly found other cafes to lack.

​The space wasn't exceedingly large, but the lighting and environment made it appear, and feel, extremely spacious.
It was a comfortable environment to reside in, regardless of whether the goal is to catch up with a friend, or simply type up a quick document. The Wi-Fi was amazingly stable, and there was also a decent-sized television screen mounted in a corner to update citizens about local happenings via CP24.

I also thoroughly enjoyed the sleek finish of the marble tabletops, classic aura of the brick wall, and the contrasting blue hue of the tall chairs (bar chairs?) with back support.

Customer service was also lightyears ahead of the stallion shop: I was promptly greeted by one of the staff members. While the other barista was pre-occupied with creating another customer's order, the older member, who assumed a manager-like stance spotted me staring blankly at the menu and politely offered, "Let me know if you have any questions.".
It was then that I decided to launch a few inquiries that had been building up in my head, including "What's a Hedgehog Mocha?". I was informed of the various mocha concoctions they produced, including the option of making them "over ice". I enjoyed that he was knowledgeable about his products, though didn't go to extreme length to describe them in excruciating detail.
(I mean, don't get me wrong - details are great, but not when I'm trying to come to a conclusion about which option sounds more appealing.)

"Take your time!" I was told with a smile.

At last, I opted for the Hedgehog Mocha, which was served just hot enough to render my insides toasty, but not steaming to the point where I would scald my tongue (forever looking at you Starbucks).
From what I could taste, the drink consisted of a few layers: whipped cream atop of a small degree of steamed milk, strongly-brewed, flavourful espresso, and a thin finish of chocolate syrup at the bottom. The caffeine hit me considerably strongly, and my senses were awakened all at once. Gone were the sloth-like movements I had been exercising in the morning; re-instilled was a great boost of energy combined with a touch of overall coziness.

By no means would I refer to myself as a coffee connoisseur, but I can definitely distinguish between the things I do and don't enjoy consuming. That being said, my first Milano drink was superb! I didn't stir the contents of the cup while drinking whatsoever - was I supposed to?!? - and, quite honestly, finished the drink in a matter of minutes even while checking my social feeds.

Milano also offers freshly-made juices (note the oranges!), baked goods, sandwiches, and yogurt parfaits to assist customers endure their early mornings (or slow-moving afternoons). I obtained a Lemon Loaf prior to departing the cafe; while I did find it to be on the greasier side (due to oil instead of butter), I did enjoy the little bursts of lemon flavour I tasted while munching on it.

The last few things I would like to mention include the presence of one secluded table situated towards the back of the shop, likely intended for quiet conversation, as well as their pristine, U-shaped bathroom (the sink is located at the upper left end, while the toilet is at the upper right to avoid some sort of HVAC component in the middle). Finally, I would like to bring to light that the baristas make a tremendous effort to get to know their customers personally. Upon one party bringing their cups back to the bar for washing, I overhead the more mature barista recall that their first visit approximately took place during March of last year.

These are the little details that make visits special! (Recall my own experience here.)

Vague hints of the Hedgehog Mocha can still be found lingering on the tip of my tongue a few days after - guess it looks like I'll be making a return trip soon!

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