Java Mama, 1075 Bathurst Street, Toronto

Java Mama is a small and warm coffee shop located just inside Toronto's wonderful Annex neighborhood. It is both unique and unpretentious, making it an inviting place to stop in for a cup and some friendly conversation with worldly owner Susan Oppenheim and other interesting patrons. If you're on the move Java Mama offers it's variety of Coffees and Teas to go as well, which make a nice addition to wandering the various bookstores and other shops of the Annex.

The shop offers a variety of fair trade (really! not Starbucks style) coffee available by the cup or purchased in bulk at reasonable prices, both as beans and ground; many of which are home roasted. There is also a number of organic baking and treats, many of which are made by the owner herself and are as delicious (if not more so) than much of the package delectables from various other sources (including local Vegan bakery New Moon ).

 As well as hosting local meetings and events, occasionally Java Mama also allows patrons the chance to sample rare coffees such as Kopi Luwak made from the coffee berries digested by and Asian Palm Civet.

 All these qualities, mixed with impeccable service and a comfortable and eclectic décor, make Java mama one of the independent pearls of the Annex, an already teeming and original neighborhood.

Review by: John Dreggar

Posted: Friday, January 04, 2008