FIKA Cafe — Restaurant in Toronto

Fika is Swedish inspired coffee shop that sits among the busy and crowded streets of Kensington. I would have figured it be a peaceful reprieve from the hippie crowd... annnd it wasn't. Inside it is ridiculously busy with some seating but you'll find people just sitting nursing a drink for a table for 3 themselves. So for an actual hang out or coffee spot, it's not a great spot but it's probably the best in Kensington aside from Jimmy's.

So the space is quaint, small, and packed ... it has the most amazing wall in the back area. There isnt a lot of spots around TO that makes an immediate 'ohhh wow' impact. That wall of books would be one of them. It's very cool. We did find the service here quite chill, friendly (they smiled back!), and fairly quick especially considering the constant flow of people coming in for a coffee. It's buzzing here. They do offer a small collection of baked goods that run with the Swedish flavour preferences... cardamom seeds, cinnamon sticks, orange peel, dried whole ginger root and whole cloves are normal spices they use and it's definitely represented in their baked goods here.

Flat White Almond Milk - Smooth and well balanced with the almond milk, this flat white was very well done & kudos to the barista for making clear lines on the design. Not many baristas can do that with almond milk. I did find they had more microfoam than just a minimal amount of fluffy foam on top which makes happy that these barista knows the difference. A good cup to be had! 4/5

Cardamom Spiced Latte - I've had cardamom spiced coffee when I'm in Dubai and found it a nice compliment but with this particular cup, it was more enjoyable. I detected another spice (cinnamon?) in addition to the sugar syrup to make a nice tempered sweetness that compliments the espresso. It was a nice taste and a decent alternative to my favourite flavoured espresso drink Lover's Latte from Strange Love. 4/5

If you're in Kensington and dying for a good cup to go, I would recommend Fika as a solid choice. It might not be a place to chill... not cause its a bad place necessarily but you'll find the tables hogged up by people oblivious to others and take up the entire 4 chairs by themselves...

This cozy Swedish-inspired café is one of my favourite spots in the city, and no matter what you look for in a café you’re not going to be disappointed! All my tips are below! Great coffee from Pilot, but also try their signature hot chocolate/lemonade! Delicious and vegan-friendly food, but not so many options that it’s overwhelming. Loving their chocolate bars! Beautiful space with lots of sun, large windows and two patios! I can spend hours here, even alone. Common table with community events at the back, or tiny tables at the front if you don’t want to share. Free Wifi with Facebook check-in, or password at the counter, so no awkwardness! I love that there’s no wifi on weekends (except winter), so people who just want a coffee can hang out. Insta-worthy, from Kensington exterior to the book wall to the nosh and even the menus! It’s definitely got a hipster vibe, but not too pretentious. It’s often full of regulars, so the first-time grams rarely get in your way. Baristas are kind and super patient! I always need a minute to decide, and I’ve even asked a barista to experiment with my drink before! She agreed but warned me the flavours may not mesh like the original, and even followed up to see if it was okay or I needed something else! I can think of several other cafes that would have flat out refused me. Space is at a premium, so if you’re coming with six friends you may not be able to find a seat, esp in winter. However they do rent...

We went here twice while in Toronto recently and Fika Cafe is a delightful treasure in the heart of Kensington Market. The staff is wonderfully kind and great at slingling coffee.

Speaking of, the coffee and drinks here are cozy. The perfect embodiment of true 'fika.' The Lavender white hot chocolate is creamy, flowery, and warm. A drink you can curl up with, share with a friend, or share with a book. The Cardamom latte has the sharp bite of espresso melding delightfully with the creamy milk. It has a cardamom finisher that hits your nose first, then the back of your tongue. It is the drink equivalent or a warm hug next to a fireplace. Finally, the mocha was decadent and creamy. Once again, A cozy experience for a cold day.

Moving onto the sweet treats. The Kanelbulle is a must try. It is not just your average cinnamon roll. It is a tight knot of fluffy, sweet pastry with a light cardamom flavor. Next up, the chocolate praline cake (this one is gluten free) is a salty-sweet delight. It has a crisp top and a melt in your mouth center that is perfectly paired with the crunchy praline bottom. First bite may have you falling out of your chair with delight. Be warned.

My only disappointment is that they didn't have semla when we were there. This is my most favorite sweet, Swedish treat and I would have loved to try Fika Cafe's take on it.

... guess I'll need to come back. (And I will. Hope to see you...