Perhaps its just me, but I have to say the espresso blend they serve at Sam James is not typical of other espresso blends in the city, it has a really smooth nutty finish, rather than the cutting chocolately finish that i’ve had elsewhere. I like both, but I’m wondering if the bean selection might change as he gets more feedback from customers. I’ve noticed most people on here praise the siphon or cappuccino (i recognize it is also made with espresso), rather than the straight espresso shots… so perhaps that’s an indication there some room for improvement.

I’m also betting his espresso machine might get an upgrade once he’s re-couped some of his setup costs… A Synesso would be great to have in there.

Keep it up Sam, the place looks great, and I’ll be a loyal customer for a long time.

From the few samples I’ve had now at the bar, I’d say my picks are the siphon coffee or the cappuccino. Both are excellent and despite what some have said, the siphon seems pretty well priced considering the labour that goes into it as well as the cost of the contraption that makes it – sort of the same as buying coffee from a clover machine, the results (which are more tea-like than usual) seem to justify the price.

My point in sharing an honest review was to laud Sam for his great coffee and friendly shop. Obviously he appreciates business of any kind. He nor his fellow barista batted an eye at my mention of this article. For some reason however, it was another customer who seemed to take issue. Clearly reading TL is beneath the ndb.

Some people clearly don’t realize that successful businesses NEED a wide customer base to survive. Reviews such as those in TL provide exposure, particularly for small businesses. As per the above comments, there are more than a few people from the ‘burbs making the trek. So for someone else to scoff at my mention of this article (my intention in doing so being that Sam would know such reviews are indeed helping generate business) was ridiculous and indeed, makes the guy a douchebag.

Anyway, let’s not spoil the fact that this is a great little coffee bar and I’m sure many other unpretentious people, from the neighbourhood or otherwise, frequent it.

Congrats Sam, and welcome to the ‘hood!

Wishing you continued success !

See you again

Wayne

The place is not in my nabe and I was thinking, aloud to Sam, that it might not be a destination for me, unfortunately, due to it’s small footprint. I don’t want to travel a long way from home, via TTC, with a paper under my arm, prepared to settle in and spend some time there, only to find the place busy and no seats available. Then I had him grind up some beans for me, for my french press, and pull me a parting shot. It just knocked my socks off! (The only place that came close was Vici Gelato in the basement of the Toronto Life Center. But they weren’t there long. I don’t think they are still in Toronto. Sorry Dark Horse.) I then realized that I might not be in often, but that espresso ‘will’ draw me back from time to time. There were 4 different beans in the cup. All I know is that Sam found a blend in this cup that I hope we never lose. It always depends on mother nature of course.

I started with a macchiato, which was top notch. Then, before my incredible espresso, I had some french pressed Yirgacheffe that was bright, but full flavored (which bright sometimes isn’t), wonderful and totally memorable.

Good luck Sam!