Zaza Espresso Bar & Gelato — Restaurant in Toronto

I am relatively new to the neighbourhood and try to frequent all the great little privately owned shops in the area. My wife, daughter and I decided to go get some lattes or cappuccinos as we were walking our 6lb puppy this evening. At the time it was -2 outside but much colder with the wind chill and our pup is short haired so we brought him in with us. We were quickly greeted by the young man behind the counter with a “no dogs allowed inside” greeting. I was surprised. He couldn’t even muster a “hello” or “how are you”.

My response was “oh, hello, how are you”. He looked at me bewildered by my courtesy in light of his approach towards us and he grunted out “no dogs allowed” again.

I said to him, “ok, thank you” and we left. We went to another coffee shop down the street with our pup and spent our $27 on coffee and treats. We typically have a coffee outing like this at least once or twice a week. I guess Zaza can’t use the extra business. Guess what? Bloor West is loaded with people walking their dogs. No reason to be intolerant of pets. It’s 2021, not 1921. Get with the program guys, my 6lb pup wasn’t going to bug anyone. Plenty of other places in the neighbourhood that welcome our pets.

• Update to the Owner* - I tried your email address but it did not work. We came on Friday November 26, 2021 at 5:30pm and it was a young man behind the counter that was unaware of...

I came here really early in the morning, so this is more of a review on its cafe aspect than a gelato cafe. I have not tried the gelato so I will come back for sure!

But I had an online lecture I had to catch, so I came here as soon as it opened. The interior is really nice, they had wall sized openings, so it was kind of like Won with the outside. But it didn’t mean it was dirty or anything, especially in contrast to the more polished and marble theme it had going.

I got a croissant and ice latte sat down in the corner, and the funniest thing happened. I needed the Wi-Fi password. Won look to the guy working there and he knew. He told me the answer before I could ask, it was really funny.

The croissant itself was OK, there definitely has been worse, but it was more like a pastry, not because of its sweetness, but because of its density. It wasn’t dense like a fruitcake or anything, just not as fluffy or flaky as a croissant should be. Sauté was really good, I forgot to ask what beans they use, but I’ll ask next time I drop by.

Thank you for having me :) I’ll be back soon to try...

I had a very disappointing experience due to the staff’s complete lack of customer service. She was incredibly rude and dismissive towards me. She showed no courtesy, no patience, and absolutely no regard for serious concerns like nut allergies. When I asked questions to ensure the food was safe, she acted irritated, said idk, and rolled her eyes like I was bothering her. Oh and the espresso sucked lol. If you’re gonna have a huge expensive machine learn how to use it or get better beans🥴

As someone with a life-threatening allergy, I expect at least basic professionalism… not attitude. Forget even being greeted or offered suggestions. Allergies aren’t a preference or an inconvenience. This kind of behavior is not only unprofessional, but dangerous.

If u have dietary restrictions dont bother coming here, wayyyy better options out there....