Unfortunately my first and last experience at cork and bean was very disappointing. Upon entering we were super excited about the atmosphere and extensive drink list. I had just gotten my wisdom teeth removed so we ordered the creamed corn soup and the cheese board w as much soft bread as possible. My boyfriend was happy with his craft beer which was on special. When we first ordered the cheese board we were told by the counter staff that she was alone so unless the owner could make it we couldnât have it... the owner was sitting upstairs but in view and she asked him from where she was and his answer was Iâll keep an eye on things upstairs while you go down and make it.... This to me is very unprofessional, we felt like we were inconveniencing them all together.. she gives us the soup and tells us to go sit and that she would bring us the cheese board. Iâm a vegetarian and after trying the soup wasnât sure whether it had a chicken or beef base so when she brought the cheese board I asked her if the soup was vegetarian/ if it had any beef or chicken stock in it. She replied that she didnât know if the soup was vegetarian because they donât actually make the soup themselves but that she would look on the label for me. And they were out of soft bread so the cheese and bread platter just had crackers on it. She came back and told us that because the soup container was empty she couldnât guarantee it was vegetarian and the owner didnât know either!!! She did bring me a soft roll which I appreciated. Over all the woman working was very nice and did try her best to be helpful but because of lack of training we were very disappointed and will not be returning. No one cooks there. The counter staff has to do everything... To add to this, 4 hours later we were both projectile vomiting!!! Coincidence...
   Read moreWe stopped in for a coffee at Cork &Bean during a very busy street fair in Oshawa in mid September. Immediately upon walking into the atmosphere, you are welcomed by an incredibly interesting and lovingly curated space. Like so many coffee shops in the GTA the owners are branching out into other beverages and experiences for coffee lovers in order to increase traffic to the café. It is my understanding that the cafe has a very popular trivia night on Wednesdays and in the later hours of the day, bar drinks are available.
The coffee here was excellent. I ordered my usual Cortado and was absolutely pleased with the richness and depth of the espresso used in my drink. I was told by the barista that the beans are roasted right down the street and therefore they are absolutely fresh when ground and served.
There are numerous seating spaces in this café, making it extremely amenable to larger and small groups. There are many intimate spaces for coffee and a chat as well as bigger spaces for a group to enjoy.
There is a combination of art for sale and permanent art on the walls. I believe it is important to support businesses which encourage local artists and promote their work. I also support the clear commitment to inclusion evidenced in the space and encourage all coffee lovers to support cafés who actively welcome alll communities . All in all there is every reason to ensure a visit to Cork and Bean if you are a coffee lover and in the...
   Read moreI recently had the absolute pleasure of hosting my 40th birthday party at Cork & Bean.
From the first time I walked in the cafe I knew that it would be the perfect venue to host my event; and with the assistance of owners Diana and Lorn, planning the event was a delight.
The vibe at Cork & Bean is sophisticated, but not stuffy. The artwork on the walls, coupled with the exposed brick and stone add a touch of rustic to it's elegant atmosphere. It is a true gem in downtown Oshawa.
The baristas Amy and Kassie were simply wonderful. They were funny and friendly and can make a mean latte to boot!
Amy and Kassie prepared marvelous boards of meats, cheeses, figs and various breads and spreads alongside boards of butter tarts that are simply to die for on each of the bistro's 3 floors for my guests to enjoy.
Kassie gave me a crash course in sabering champagne, which is an amazing option that Cork & Bean offers. To saber a bottle of sparking wine you are given a short sword and the bottle and you get to try to pop the top off the bottle with a swipe of the sword. (Not to toot my own horn, but I got it in one swipe!) It was a terrific way to add some pizzazz to an already delightful evening.
I know that when it is time for my book launch, Cork & Bean is where I will be throwing my event!
I would highly recommend celebrating your next event, Big or Small at Cork & Bean. They will help make it an evening...
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