Cafe Culture

Commonwealth Coffee, London OntarioWhispers of “Summer is over!” have been spreading like wild fire across London. With the first day of school behind us and Mother Nature turning down the thermostat, it’s little wonder this has become a September chant.

However, summer isn’t officialy over until September 23rd so let’s not fall into that pit of despair just yet people! Let’s squeeze out every last bit of joy the season gives us. Let’s sit on patios, indulge in ice cream and don’t you dare even glance at the sock drawer! Let’s keep that summer feeling going as long as we can!

What is over for me, however, is having time off to induge in cafe culture. It’s back to work. No more slow days lingering over my iced mocha. No more catching up on delicious summer reads or eavesdropping on some even more titillating conversations (yes, I know it’s not polite but…).

In an effort to extend that glorious summer sentiment, I wanted to share with you my two favourite summer haunts which I hope become yours as well…all year long.

First up is CommonWealth Coffee Co. Bookending Richmond St with the Grand Theatre, this bright hipster hangout will supply you with ample caffeine, a bit of a sugar rush, and plenty of hangout/work space. With a catchy motto “Life is too short, Stay awake for it” the shop introduces its customer to higher end artisan beans and coffee producers, as well as refined baked goods.

Commonwealth Coffee, London OntarioCommonwealth Coffee, London Ontario Commonwealth Coffee, London OntarioCommonwealth Coffee, London OntarioCommonwealth Coffee, London OntarioCommonwealth Coffee, London Ontario  Commonwealth Coffee, London OntarioCommonwealth Coffee, London OntarioCommonwealth Coffee, London OntarioCommonwealth Coffee, London OntarioNext it’s Reset Social Cafe. Nestled beneath the brand new Azure condo building on Talbot St., this cafe serves its premium coffee, juices, shakes, and lighter fare (must try the chicken curry) in a colourfully industrial setting. A comfortable space filled with students, well heeled Moms with curious toddlers, and smartly turned out business set, Reset has something for everyone.

Reset Social Cafe, London OntarioReset Social Cafe, London Ontario  Reset Social Cafe, London OntarioReset Social Cafe, London Ontario20190720_111717 (2)20190720_111901 (2)  20190720_111807 (2)20190720_112007 (2)Reset Social Cafe, London OntarioRain or shine, summer or winter, both CommonWealth Coffee and Reset Cafe will satisfy your social needs and your caffeine dreams. Give them a try!

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A Morning Date with Edgar & Joe

Edgar and Joe's Cafe Interior | London, ONI am a diehard advocate of, in my humble opinion, the most important meal of the day – BREAKFAST! Whether hot or cold, at home or out, I always start my day on a full stomach.

The boy is, by now, familiar with the sound of my alarm clock gently tinkling in the darkness. It urges me up at 6am (two and a half hours before I leave for work) so that I can indulge in my ritual of a steaming cup and a warm breakfast. Always warm! My tastes run from a smooth egg scramble with bacon to warm apple and cheese filled crepes. Sunday is always a Dutch Baby extravaganza! All a bit time consuming in my bleary eyed state. But well worth it.

However, I cherish the days when I can hand over breakfast making duties to the experts. Enter my other favourite boys, Edgar & Joe‘s. Edgar and Joe's Cafe Sign | London, ONIt’s a little spot that has found a firm hold in London’s blossoming downtown.

Part of the Goodwill Industries, it touts itself as a cafe with a purpose, serving fresh, local, and affordable food that keep the patrons coming back.

Chalkboard Menu at Edgar and Joe's Cafe | London, ONInterior of Edgar and Joe's Cafe | London, ONDecor Lighting at Edgar and Joe's Cafe | London, ONCoffee Preparation at Edgar's and Joe's Cafe | London, ONItems for Sale at Edgar and Joe's Cafe | London, ONItems for Sale at Edgar and Joe's Cafe | London, ON   Table and Decor at Edgar and Joe's Cafe | London, ONDecor at Edgar and Joe's Cafe | London, ONBarista Preparing Coffee at Edgar and Joe's Cafe | London, ONCappuccinos at Edgar and Joe's Cafe | London, ON      Cappuccinos at Edgar and Joe's Cafe | London, ONBreakfast at Edgar and Joe's Cafe | London, ONSo if your tummy starts to rumble at the sight of the last pic, grab a spot at Edgar & Joe’s and start your day off right!

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Weekend Edition

Stacked books and a cup of coffeeYay, another long weekend is here! I feel a little spoiled for plans. I’m starting off with a luxurious 6 hour spa day (a gift to myself!), followed by a quick jaunt outside the city to a blueberry pickin’ heaven, then a trip or two to the local Ribfest for a down and dirty finger-lickin’ dinner, and finally diving into a new summer novel. I will also be working on a new post from a recent local funventure with the boy.

But first I thought I’d start off the weekend with a few fun links you guys might enjoy.

  • Waking up early is no one’s idea of fun, especially on a long weekend. But check out this list of hilarious and brutally honest coffee mugs that might make that bright morning sunshine a little easier to swallow.
  • If your summer trip to Italy is still just a day dream, allow me to add to your fantasy album. Follow a day in the life of the beautiful and incredibly perky Giada de Laurentiis as she films her show in Florence.
  • And if your summer leanings are more Gallic, this interview with the French Chantecaille sisters will have you finding your inner French girl!

Wishing you all a fabulous long weekend!

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Weekend Edition

Illy coffee cupsI’ve been really enjoying sharing my posts with all of you. What you’ve seen are definitely my favourite moments, restaurants, events, and websites. I hope you’ve enjoyed them as well.  Here are a few more things that are making their way onto “My Favourites” list.

  • I’m always on the lookout for great coffee shops where I can indulge my tastes in the caffeinated beverage. The next time I find myself in New York, I will call on this list from Trottermag to visit some of the city’s amazing cafes.
  • If I had an ounce of baking skills (or patience for that matter) I would bump this Chili & Tonka coffee and ganache macaron recipe to the top of my dessert repertoire. Scroll past the mouthwatering images and Polish text to find the English translation.
  • And if you haven’t had enough coffee images or recipes check out my Coffee Pinterest board for more inspiration!

 

The Bag Lady

The Bag Lady London Ontario entrance and vanInterior restaurant and counter | The Bag Lady London OntarioCookie pedestals at The Bag Lady in London OntarioVintage object display in The Bag Lady | Restaurant in London OntarioGirl face mugs at The Bag Lady in London OntarioSeating area in The Bag LadyCutlery and napkins in The Bag Lady in London OntarioInterior of restaurant with patrons of The Bag Lady in London OntarioWhite wrought iron tables on the patio at The Bag Lady in LondonExterior building and patio at The Bag Lady Everyone says that breakfast is the most important meal of the day and I couldn’t agree more. I will wake up an hour early just to start the day off with a hot meal. I must admit that this does take a toll on my sleep (and who couldn’t use a little more shut eye!). Finding a place in my London neighbourhood that takes breakfast as seriously as I do, and is a super cute spot to meet with friends is amazing.

Stepping through the door of The Bag Lady I felt like Alice walking through the looking glass. The pastel technicolor and over-the-top retro design can be bit overwhelming, but the vibe is really easy going. The food feels homemade and will make you a breakfast addict, especially the mixed potato hash. Whether you decide to sit inside or outside, a visit to this delicious wonderland is a must.