Purple Penguin Cafe in Toronto

889 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M4M 1J4, Canada

★★★★★
(493 reviews)
Categories: Cafe Bagel shop Breakfast restaurant Catering food and drink supplier Coffee store Sandwich shop

About

Made to order Apple fritters, You must try!!

Website
purplepenguincafe.com
Address
889 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M4M 1J4, Canada
Plus Code
MM65+53 Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Time Zone
America/Toronto

Business Hours

Monday
7:30 AM–4 PM
Tuesday
7:30 AM–4 PM
Wednesday
7:30 AM–4 PM
Thursday
7:30 AM–4 PM
Friday
7:30 AM–4 PM
Saturday
8 AM–5 PM
Sunday
8 AM–5 PM

Services

From the business
Identifies as women-owned
Service options
Outdoor seating On-site services Takeaway Dine-in
Highlights
Great tea selection
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible entrance Wheelchair-accessible seating Assistive hearing loop Wheelchair-accessible car park
Offerings
Coffee Prepared foods Small plates Vegetarian options
Dining options
Breakfast Brunch Lunch Catering Dessert Seating
Amenities
Gender-neutral toilets Toilets Wi-Fi Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Casual Cosy
Crowd
Family friendly LGBTQ+ friendly Transgender safe space
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards Debit cards NFC mobile payments Credit cards
Children
Good for kids

Photos

Reviews

4.6
★★★★★
493 reviews

Most Mentioned

apple fritters (35) bagels (32) breakfast sandwich (21) chai latte (7) muffins (7) baked goods (6) oreo (6) deep fried (6) panini (6) wrap (5)
5 stars
366
4 stars
83
3 stars
18
2 stars
10
1 stars
16
★★★★★
November 30, 2024

We were visiting Toronto and stayed in the Leslieville neighborhood. Found this little cafe and so glad we did. First trip, we had the Western bagel and banana fritters. Best fritters and bagel I’ve ever had. So good that we went back before heading out. The iced chai latte was also so delicious! I highly recommend this spot.

★★★★
September 3, 2024

Sat down for a nice lunch inside. Nice to frequent a non-chain restaurant. Quaint corner location. Staff was kind but not really in a hurry. Food was very good value for money. Fresh sandwiches were nice.

★★★★★
June 17, 2024

Amazing local cafe shop. Fast service, food was delicious and their coffee was perfect! Just the way I like it. The apple fritter is a must have!

★★★★★
May 17, 2024

This cafe in Leslieville is known for their fritters. Came in on a Saturday afternoon and managed to just beat the rush. I ordered an apple fritter and didn't realize they were made fresh to order. It took about 7 mins for my order to be prepared. It was hot and absolutely delicious. Would come back and recommend if you're looking for a fresh made to order deep fried fritter.

★★★★★
April 6, 2024

This is such an awesome neighborhood Cafe that has fantastic coffee and some great eats. I started with a delicious banana chocolate chip muffin. Look at the chocolate in this picture! I enjoyed it so much that I decided to try their breakfast sandwich made with Montreal bagels. Absolutely hit the spot for a weekend breakfast treat. If you're around the area don't miss out on trying this place. Can't wait to return to try some more treats out. Highly recommended!

★★★★★
March 3, 2024

Tried their Montreal breakfast bagel with egg, bacon, cheddar cheese and their homemade house dressing. Got it on an everything bagel and it was delicious! House dressing was very good, bagel had a nice texture and the cheddar cheese was nice and melty. The cafe has seating near the front entrance and some seating towards the back. They carry Genuine Tea Co. They offer a variety of sandwiches, cookies and drinks. Staff was friendly. Shop was clean with a cozy vibe. Would recommend!

★★★★★
September 26, 2023

I came to visit thanks to my friend's strong recommendation.👍🏻 This was a tremendous experience. I was fascinated by the scent of sesame in bagels.🥯🤤 The panini was properly baked and the cheese flowed down. 🧀Apple Printers🍎, the signature here, were freshly fried and hot and crispy. Also, Oreo fries were perfect for dessert. This is the perfect place to enjoy brunch. I hope everyone will come here.🩷💕💘💓💞💖

★★★★★
October 16, 2022

I’m not sure how they make the bread purple but it was a great sandwich. Packed full of fresh filling. The bagel was also huge and delicious. We had to try the fritters so we got Apple and Oreo ones and they were top notch.

★★★★★
Local Guide
November 23, 2024

Lovely little Cafe! Tasty Dalgona latte and warm apple fritter

★★★★★
Local Guide
November 23, 2024

Breakfast sandwich delicious. Service little slow in morning rush

★★★★★
Local Guide
October 23, 2024

Its very cute, and the coffee was excellent.

★★★★★
Local Guide
October 23, 2024

Excellent coffee stop in the morning!

★★★★★
Local Guide
October 23, 2024

On a street packed with good coffee shops, this is my favourite. Homemade sandwiches, great coffee, and the BEST staff and service in the building.

★★★★★
Local Guide
September 23, 2024

Ice matcha latte superb yummm!

★★★★★
September 23, 2024

It meets everything they offer. The employee is very nice also. Tea, one sandwich and dessert is about 24 cad.

★★★★
Local Guide
September 23, 2024

Fun place to try some freshly made fritters!

★★★★★
Local Guide
July 23, 2024

Visiting Toronto from the USA. Had the gf chocolate chip cookie as well as the gluten free kitchen sink bar. They were fantastic. The coffee was also very good.

★★★★★
July 23, 2024

Good food, good coffee, great cookies. Lot of seating and standing area for a cafe. Still appreciate getting a coffee when I was short on change a couple years back

★★★★★
July 23, 2024

Great little cafe with delicious Montreal bagel sandwiches! (I had the avocado and tomato, which had cream cheese and a drizzling of balsamic glaze. So good!)

★★★★★
Local Guide
July 23, 2024

Food is good

★★★★★
Local Guide
July 23, 2024

Ordered apple and oreo fritters and breakfast sandwichs and they all were so good! Definitely recommend!! Food

July 23, 2024

I came this morning, it was a busy time. I understand, I was told they could not make a single shot coffee. I was not asking a reduced price, all other places make it, waste the other shot. Terrible service.

★★★★★
July 23, 2024

Great and unique cafe. You can really tell all the food is made fresh in store. Their service is quick and polite and their coffee is perfect.

★★★★★
Local Guide
June 23, 2024

Guy working was helpful and friendly. I got a large cold brew coffee. They have add your own simple syrup and cream. It was really good coffee.

★★★★★
Local Guide
June 23, 2024

Delicious apple fritters and the twisters bagels are great too, lots of options for sandwiches. Dolgona latte is a must try!

★★★★
Local Guide
June 23, 2024

Very friendly staff and fair prices for the portion size. I really enjoyed the breakfast bagel and chicken Caesar wrap, as well as the freshly baked Fritters!

★★★★★
Local Guide
June 23, 2024

Cute cafe at the corner of Logan and Queen East with friendly staff and delicious breakfast bagel sandwiches.

★★★★
Local Guide
June 23, 2024

wasn t super impressed with my oreo fritter but staff was pleasant

June 23, 2024

Sorry out of drip coffee mid afternoon, but I can up charge you an Americano... really?

★★★★★
Local Guide
May 23, 2024

Literally the best apple fritters you will ever have!! made fresh per customer

★★★★★
Local Guide
May 23, 2024

Friendly staff! Cute atmosphere. Very little indoor seating on a rainy or cold day. The coffee was good. Vegetarian options: Noticed many veggie options on the menu.

May 23, 2024

Paying nearly $7 for a small macha is insulting.

May 23, 2024

Terrible service. terrible employee working there. I come here every Sunday, but that s going to change. Apparently, purple penguins rules are regular customers get served before casual customers. Checks out

★★★
May 23, 2024

Very rich pure life

★★★★★
Local Guide
May 23, 2024

Love this place to bits. We take out there a lot. This week it was a goofy grilled cheese sandwich Great selection of bagels, sandwiches, breakfast sandwiches, and.... made to order fritters! They rock.

★★★★★
Local Guide
May 23, 2024

Lovely cafe, excellent service and delicious oreo fritter!

★★★★★
May 23, 2024

Place is tiny and a little cramped but adds to the cozy atmosphere. On occasion the person at cash can be very cold and a little condescending (sorry) but most of the time very fun bright and sweet place to get coffee <3 The seller here is the apple fritters, and they actually have fritters in a couple of other flavors as well very delicious and made on the spot when you order. They also have a range of baked goods and a variety of breakfast sandwiches that are all quite delicious. You can also buy your own high-quality coffee and tea to make at home. Considering that they are across the street from a big box coffee shop, they do quite well with lots of loyal customers and definitely hold their own. Its definitely worth a visit!

★★★★★
Local Guide
May 23, 2024

Fantastic little corner café with excellent coffee and food.

★★★★★
Local Guide
April 23, 2024

I LOVE the grapefruit lemonade it is the best lemonade I ve ever had in my life, so fresh and zingy. Excellent flavour. I love their classic breakfast sandwich and their bagel sandwiches are so nice too! Very fresh bagels, service here is very good and the cafe is very clean

★★★★★
April 23, 2024

Friendly service, food and drink options for anyone. Our breakfast bagel and avocado/tomato panini were made fresh and delicious. Fresh baked banana chocolate chip muffin was still warm and so good. Iced coffee was made with Reunion beans and a great balanced flavour. HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS PLACE. Small, locally owned cafes forever!

★★★★
Local Guide
April 23, 2024

I go here to get this delicious cookie made from taro and has white chocolate chips in it. I m hooked.

★★★★
Local Guide
March 23, 2024

Delicious fritters and friendly staff

★★★★★
February 23, 2024

You have to go for the Apple fritters! Made at the time you order and the coffee is always great. Love coming here on a Sunday afternoon to enjoy a coffee and topeople watch on Queen street.

★★★★★
January 23, 2024

The most ultimate apple fritters, delicious bagel sandwiches, and the friendly staff make this place so cozy! A Leslieville gem.

★★★★★
Local Guide
January 23, 2024

Great ambiance! I met a friend for coffee, which was delish, but I didnt get to try the food. Options looked great!

★★★★★
Local Guide
January 23, 2024

Never an issue, always great service and there s lots of food I love here. We often order ahead on their website and it s great set up.

★★
January 23, 2024

So I just went to this cafe because I ve been seeing so many wonderful reviews of it and my husband and I drove 20 mins to get here! We came at 4:20 pm knowing that they were going to close soon but I just wanted to dry a drink. We got there and received a cold and rude greeting from the barista with the pink hat and tattoos. We were looking at the menu and she proceeded to hurry us because she said they were closing. When putting the order she was extremely cold and mean. The matcha tasted amazing however, but it was an unpleasant experience. Maybe we just got this worker on a bad day but it s upsetting because I was really looking forward to a good experience.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Lovely little purple cafe that we visited this morning. Warm and festive atmosphere Great coffee with a nice selection of breakfast foods and snacks! + friendly staff! If you are in the area, this is one of the many awesome coffee shops on Queen. Check it out.

Local Guide
December 23, 2023

I ordered online after seeing the reviews, but I was put off by their washrooms and am not eating this.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Should offer table service for food. Order at counter than bring over. Good bagels.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Small incredibly wonderful Cafe wood wonderful coffee and great pastries highly recommend it to all

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Perfect spot to stay or to go for a nice coffee and an interesting breakfast food menu. The twisted bagel is my personal favourite. The people who work here are always pleasant. 10 out of 10 times I d come to Purple Penguin over the competition across the street.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Really nice Café vibe with delicious sandwich options. Really enjoyed their breakfast muffin and will be back for more!

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

Best bagel sandwich in Toronto!! The owner is so kind and honest Coffee is always fresh and tasty!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Friendly staff, great food. Had the Ham Brie Apple Panini

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Wow, they have keto muffin & sandwich and taste is great

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Great coffee and breakfast. The baked goods look delicious also. Nice eating area with about 10 tables give or take. Staff was polite and food was prepared fairly quickly!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Fritters are made fresh to order. They are next level and a must try. Breakfast bagels are also super fresh and delish. Fair prices. Eat here.

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

Have been to this cafe so many times. I love it. They are simply so good.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

My boss got me apple fritters from here. Super hot, crispy and fresh!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

I have been wanting to try this adorable place for a while but I am glad I finally did. The food is delicious! Even writing this review makes me want some

Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Wouldn t go back. They forgot to make my girlfriends order, left her to wait for 30 minutes standing there, didn t say sorry, didn t offer a discount or anything, plenty of other customers came and went, overall terrible service.

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

Purple penguin is one of my favorite cafe!! Coffee and apple fritters tasted fantastic! Also, barista Jane responded friendly and quickly. Thank you! Food

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

High quality sandwiches. Counter service and self bussing. Coffee above average!

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

The customer service was good, the banana fritters are so delicious, but the salmon bagel could have more cream cheese.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Very kind staff. The Montreal bagels are good, and seating is pleasant. Id highly suggest this place.

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

Absolutely wow, amazing coffee

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

I love this place and the owner is very attentive and friendly.

★★
December 23, 2023

Overrated. The cookies could be better and it s overpriced. The general atmosphere isn t welcoming.

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

We love the bagels here - the bread is fresh and the fillings are tasty! My favourite is the ELT.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Amazing food, the California breakfast sandwich was perfect. The iced coffee is also fantastic. The lavender lemonade and apple fritter are both easy recommendations. Somehow the service is even better than the food. So welcoming and friendly. A must go for breakfast! 10/10!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Very friendly and informative staff. Had a delicious dairy-free almond-flour blueberry muffin (~$5.50) and a spinach mango smoothie ($7.75). Smoothie is made with real spinach and mango nectar and can be made with oat milk. Got the food to go. My muffin was still fresh and hot and smoothie prepared quickly. Dietary restrictions: Dairy-free options

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Very nice and friendly service, delicious food and amazing colours!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Very cute corner for a quick coffee and a snack, but cozy enough to stay in to study or work also. 100% will come back

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

The Purple Penguin cafe is a cute little place to have a treat, or even a quick meal/bute to eat with family and / or friends. Its an all-age friendly cafe with staff that are very knowledgeable about the menu and positive vibes. The overall environment here is positive vibes, with a lot of purple in the interior (hence the name). I absolutely adore the penguin plates and cups that they use here, to the point where I even bought some myself after a quick search in a few Dollarama stores, haha. I visited with a friend in the early afternoon, on a weekend, which was somewhat busy but there were still ample seating available. The penguin biscuit was all right, but the iced matcha latte with honey chunks was the highlight of my visit. I never had these crispy honey chunks with my drink, and they tasted great; both dry by itself or crumpled up and mixed into the matcha latte. While the prices are more expensive than usual - its in downtown, so no surprise there - Do stop by here for a fun treat if you ever see the iconic penguin in a purple building. The treats here are worth trying out. Vegetarian options: Non-dairy options available. Wheelchair accessibility: Located on the first floor; no stairs or escalator required.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

GET. THE. APPLE. FRITTERS! If youre getting a bunch of them call to order in advance otherwise on a busy day it may be a bit of a wait, but still worth it! Banana fritters are good as well and drinks are your typical good coffee/latte/etc but apple fritters are

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Very inviting and friendly staff. Great flat white, blew with medium-dark roasted coffee beans. They serve bagel and baked stuff as well. Lovely little coffee shop in the hood.

★★
December 23, 2023

The Americano was great, but the food was extremely disappointing for the price. My cookie was stale and the lettuce on my ELT was brown and rotten.

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

Super cute small cafe! If you are looking for a place with great sweet treats and a variety or sweet or strong coffee and teas, this is the place! Has seating for those looking to park and do some work or reading. Service was kind and informative. Didnt try the food but have heard (and seen) good things!

★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Been here for breakfast sandwiches and paninis a couple of times and the experience was subpar unfortunately. Their prices are quite high for the amount and quality of food but it s the service that discourages me from coming back. We ordered 3 things per 2 people and they forgot one of the orders. We ordered a panini with an egg and they forgot the egg. And the last time we came in around 3:10 and when ordering, the staff asked whether it s for here or to go. After saying for here, she said they will make it go because their dining room closes in 20 minutes. The ordered was prepared and eaten within those 20 minutes and we didn t appreciate being rushed out, what s the point of asking in the first place

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Good coffee shop, with delicious food options. Not crazy extensive in terms of options BUT everything they make is sooooo good! Way better than Starbucks across the street. Do yourself a favour and come here. You won t be disappointed!

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

Great tasting food

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

I bought a couple fritters from here, not a huge order obviously but was still treated politely and professionally by the staff member. The fritters were made fresh and were definitely something I would order again. Cheers

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Egg and avocado on twister all day. So much better than anything you can get from Starfarts across the street

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Egg and avocado is the best sandwich I ve ever had. Definitely recommend

Local Guide
December 23, 2023

$15 for a stale bagel and almost no cream cheese or salmon I ve never felt so ripped off. Asked the person working if this was the way it is now and she said yes. Used to be good years back but not anymore!

★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

has nice vibes via the paint colour and other things but the head waitress with glasses and tattoos is horrendous at her job. I feel as though shes trying to treat me as terribly as possible. Almost ruins the whole place for me. Seems narcissistic, Probably wont come back if i see her working here.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Breakfast sandwiches and donuts are on point!

★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

i feel like quality has gone down a bit, i remember when they used to toast it properly, ive gotten my bread cold twice now even though i asked for it to be double toasted. The quantity of the fillings are less than what it used to be, ive stopped going after i found mold in one of my cheeses in my turkey club havent gone back since its a shame but hopefully it gets better overtime and maybe ill consider coming back and re trying it but for now im scard for life

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Love the apple fritters. Delicious when hot.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

cute and cheap. the chairs need to go though l m a o

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Coffee was really fresh and apple fritter was absolutely great !

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Amazing!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Great space with a couple of tables and some seating. Cozy and friendly atmosphere. Drip coffee and lattes are great!

★★★★★
December 23, 2022

Charming cafe.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Great coffee, treats, ambience and everything purple.

★★★★★
December 23, 2022

Best Apple Fritter In Toronto!

★★★★★
December 23, 2022

Great service and breakfast sandwiches! The apple fritters are a classic too!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Heaven on earth. My skin hates the sugar but I sacrifice for this delicious treats any time Thanks Purple Penguin Cafe staff for always killing it at what you do for us!!

★★★★★
December 23, 2022

Great service

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

I love this cafe. Definitely a hidden gem. I always get their bagel lox and cappuccino!! So good and they don t skimp out on the salmon. Their espresso is one of the best in the city I highly recommend if you re in the east end.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Do you love coffee, purple, and penguins? Then you must visit this wonderful cafe! They serve breakfast all day and have a wide variety of sandwiches. A handful of tasty options for vegetarians. Wide selection of coffees, teas, and smoothies. Delicious pastries including purple cookies. The decor inside is whimsical and creative. Hoping to make this place a frequent spot to visit.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Breakfast here is awesome

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

What a find, great freshly made food. I am sure to be coming back again

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Apple fritters and friendly service to die for.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Best bagels on queen!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Their Oreo and Apple Fritters are a must try. The Oreo is soft on the inside and if you get the apple fritter, the apples are well seasoned and cooked. The prices for their food and drinks are really decent. The western breakfast sandwich was not bad for the value.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Lovely muffins

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Cute cafe, really nice people, broad menu, and a signature offering. Stopped by of course for their famous apple fritters. A bit heavy on the coating and wanted a bit more apple, but it was still very good. Piping hot, good fry (crispy, not oily), perfect amount of sugar. We also got: - Keto Lover: Tasty keto bread, good slab of brie and egg, would have wanted more of the bacon and avocado mayo. - Iced dalgona latte: If you want a really sweet drink, this is for you! Cafe is smallish, but has a good layout to maximize the space, and a great outside seating area. Service is super friendly and customer oriented - they were in the process of changing the oil for the fritters when we got there so had to wait a bit, and they gave us additional fritters for free! Bonus points for also being open so early at 7:30. I can definitely see why Purple Penguin is a place people waddle to.

★★★★★
December 23, 2022

Love the ice teas and the staff is so nice

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

The only place so far that has keto food, and keto late, and keto muffins that dont taste like keto typical muffins. Theses muffins are as good as regular style muffins and they are keto. The owner is a passionate keto follower and knows how to eat keto. Very impressed. Only place so far that I found to support and offer keto like this places does. This business could go big with keto options and her keto muffins is something that could be sold nationally. I really enjoy the location, vibe and the people that run the place. Must check out for sure. Lots of none keto options obviously but keto options is what I care about in this review from my point of view. I and their keto breakfast sandwich and I just love it. Id eat it every day. Dietary restrictions: Keto options Wheelchair accessibility: Wheel chair ramp

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Been going here for years. Great fritters, fresh squeezed juice and breakfast sammies!

★★★★★
December 23, 2022

Everything tastes amazing! And the owner is such a hard worker and one of the nicest people I have ever met!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Good coffee and friendly service

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Try the fresh made apple fritters, theyre amazing!

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Nice little place with a small patio.Service was good as was the expresso!!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Friendly, attentive, food and drink were both delicious. Great vibe in there and the apple fritters are definitely a highlight.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Wow amazing food and great service.

December 23, 2022

This place is a finesse. They charge 9$ for a bacon egg and cheese on a bagel and they put half a piece of bacon. Egg looks like it s been microwaved. Will never go again.

★★★★★
December 23, 2022

Awesome bagels and friendly staff. I highly recommend this fine establishment :)

★★★★★
December 23, 2022

Sweet staff, great food, comfortable atmosphere and pretty smiles This Purple Penguin Cafe is one of my favourite cafe Thank you always

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Love the gluten free bread and apple fritters here!

★★★★★
December 23, 2022

The most delicious breakfast I have ever had. The BELT and home made Chai tea is out of the world!! A must go try

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

I like this little coffee shop/sandwich bar. They make a great sandwich and its nice to go here after the gym on the weekend. They are also one of the few places in the East End that serves Dalgona (Korean iced coffee), which is yummy!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

The purple penguin cafe is a really nice atmosphere. Good coffee and food. Kid-friendliness: Nice space for chidren

★★★★★
December 23, 2022

Everything was spot on ! Cappuccino , everything breakfast bagel ( no meat) , great customizations, Apple fritter is a must try its not overly sweet and pairs well with your coffee beverages, hot chocolate. The person who serves behind the counter ( we came here sat morning) is super warm, very clear in taking down orders and very welcoming , definitely coming back !!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Amazing Apple fritters

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Great sandwich selection and friendly service. Dont leave without trying their apple fritters.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Very friendly place. Great ginger molasses cookies!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Sweet cafe, with delicious sandwiches. Great for a quick bite. Kid-friendliness: Casual place, families would be happy to eat here. Food : 5/5 |

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

I love going to purple penguin. The staff is lovely, the food and drink are great. My only complaint is that theres russian dressing on a lot of things which isnt the end of the world if you remember to ask them to not put it on, but if you forget its just kind of a weird taste on a bacon, egg and cheese bagel.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Food was ok, a little expensive for the size.

★★★★★
December 23, 2022

Great place ! People are welcoming, the atmosphere is comfy, the coffee is fresh and made with Love- So is the food ! We stayed their a couple of times and tried different things, from the sweets to the dishes, everything is freshly prepared and of good quality :) It s cheaper than a regular restaurant and better then any fast food chain out there. We loved supporting a local business, shout out to the owner and her team :) P.s: We loved the huge croissant, don t sleep on them ! Greetings from Paris, E+B

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

A cozy local cafe in Leslieville with some delicious breakfast and snacks options. Ordering a portion of apple fritters is a must, tastes like grandmas recipe. Also the special breakfast bagels are great and filling. Id rather support local businesses like this one instead of big chains. Food

★★★★★
December 23, 2022

Love love love this place. The apple fritters made to order are the best in the city. Fabulous coffee no idea why people go to Starbucks across the street when this place makes a killer coffee. No matter what I try I m never disappointed.

★★★★★
December 23, 2022

If u ask me, they sell the worlds best coffee here!!

★★★★★
December 23, 2022

Best Apple Fritters in the East End

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

EXCELLENT service and even better coffee and treats. Theyre so nice and friendly. Kid friendly too!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

The apple fritters are AMAZING! Also got a breakfast bagel and it was delicious. Staff was nice and friendly. There s tables for you to dine in and eat. Can t wait to go back

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Love, love, LOVE the ube crinkles and apple fritters here! I stumbled upon Purple Penguin while exploring Leslieville one day, and it was a delight to spend an afternoon here. Its not the biggest space, but when you can snag a seat by the window, its a great place to grab a snack with a friend or on your own.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Nice little café. I got the apple fritters. They were nice and crispy. Parking: There is street parking but it can be hard to find. Queen Street is always very busy. Food : 5/5 |

★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

covid response needs serious work. don t be fooled by online ordering... either way you need to wait outside for 15+mins for a brewed black coffee that s cold by the time you get it (we see you adding some hot coffee at the end, that doesn t make the 3/4 of coffee no longer cold from sitting there for 15 mins without a lid)

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

The twister bagels are very yummy there!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

Love their Made-to-Order Apple Fritters. So fresh. They are different than your donut-like, doughy fritters. These are like deep fried onion rings in apple form. Delicious.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

I bought a few apple fritters after reading online reviews and it definitely lived up to my expectations! I wish I bought more but they are best when you have them fresh!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

Amazing apple fritters and great coffee. I recommend this over other local cafés.

★★★★★
December 23, 2021

EN: Best bagel place in Leslieville. I didnt grow up in North America, and I didnt like bagels as much until I discovered this place. Their twister bagel with cream cheese is my go-to; both, simple and delicious. Service was good, and friendly. EN: The best bagel in Leslieville. I didnt grow up in North America and didnt really like bagels until I discovered this place. Their twister bagel with cream cheese is the one I always order - its simple and delicious. Good service and friendly.

★★★★★
December 23, 2021

My favourite fritters in the city. Great variety of drinks. Oat lattes are phenomenal. Fresh pressed juice is always a perfect match to the fritters. Cannot recommend this great local and friendly place enough!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

You might be surprised. Street parking usually available, casual staff, great service. Dont forget to try the Apple fritters!

★★★★★
December 23, 2021

Love this spot! Theyre twister bagels and chai tea lattes are the absolute best :)

★★★★★
December 23, 2021

Love this place. Great owner and atmosphere. Not pretentious. Just good.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

Great real Montreal style bagels!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

Two words: Apple Fritters!! They are delicious. Made fresh to order. Individually (!!) or in batches. They are a tasty treat when you need a little pick-me up. Or just a little joy. I first discovered this cutest café during my first week living in Toronto, back in 2016. If you re in the East End, drop by to pick up some delicious apple fritters Did you know? June Smith, the fritter-maker and owner of @purplepenguincafe worked on perfecting her apple fritter after she discovered them over 15 years ago at the St. Jacobs Farmers Market, near Kitchener!! I

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

Love this place! A local Gem! Their fritters are always fresh and delicious and their bagles are delicious!

★★★★★
December 23, 2021

Favourite cafe in Leslieville, purple is my favourite colour and the food here is always amazing. My whole family loves the fritters. Staff are friendly fast and on the ball compared to some other coffee shops in the area. Skip your Starbucks one day and try this place across the street.

★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

My iced chai latte was great, more flavorful than Starbucks, however I was disappointed in the fritters but in retrospect that was because of my expectation. I think I expected something different from the term fritter when more accurately this is a deep fried insert piece of fruit . They are fried up fresh so a bit of a wait. The deep fried apple slice was indeed delicious, lovely batter and stuck well to the apple, also most reasonably priced and travelled well. The pineapple slice was quite juicy so the batter didn t adhere as well and was falling off. The deep fried banana might have been better had I been able to eat it right away but there was still no dine in at this time and it was just too hot for me outside, this one did not travel well at all and was just inedible by the time I got home about 20 mins later. The deep fried Oreo was delicious but had I realized this is what the Oreo fritter was, I provably would have passed and waiting until my next trip to a fair or the CNE. That being said if I was going past here I would stop in for the apple fritters again but I wouldn t go out of my way to get them.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

Omg their fritters are fresh to order and soooo goood

★★★★★
December 23, 2021

I drink just americano and I tried coffee in many places and they were all bitter or sour! Good and high quality coffee here! Love it!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

I love everything that Ive tried here. Chai latte, famous apple fritters, bagels, sandwiches have all been delicious. Friendly staff too.

★★★★★
December 23, 2021

One of the best coffee shops in the area. Definitely try the fritters if you havent

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

Great coffee. FRESH fritters. Didn t realize it s made to order. Tastes delish. Amazing service ! Will definitely come back !

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

I visited the Purple Penguin Cafe this morning specifically to try their apple fritters. The cafe itself has an inviting atmosphere with big windows that look out onto Queen St. Seating inside and out. The staff were friendly and care about the customer and providing a good overall experience. The apple fritters were great. Big pieces of apple, fried to a delicious crispy outer layer with a warm, custard like interior. Dusted with cinnamon and sugar, just the right amount, they are not overly sweet. Perfect with a coffee. I tried them as soon as I bought them, it was cool outside and the hot crispy fritter was the perfect companion. I did prefer them better however after they had been sitting for an hour. Either way they were perfect.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

My new go to because the penguin never disappoints!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

No joke I just had THE BEST breakfast sandwich I have ever shoved in mouth in my entire life!!!! Had the California Breakfast Sandwich (except I had it without ham). Staff was great as well!

★★★★★
December 23, 2021

Nothing but chef kiss for this local cafe spot! The only place I actually love my coffee from. So tasteful!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

Beautiful location

★★★★★
December 23, 2021

The most delicious baggel I have ever eaten in my life is here. You can smell it a block away. Be sure to go and try it!!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

The fritters are insane! So good! The drinks are great too :)

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

Best breakfast sandwiches!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

These guys make a KILLER chai latte! Ive tried only 4 paninis and all have been a hit. Cant wait to try the rest of the menu!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

Wonderful bagels and delighted by their awesome bakery selection. Everything there was so attractive - couldnt decide! A nice outside seating area too.

★★★★★
December 23, 2021

Best Apple fritters in the GTA hands down.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

Everything is delish and the staff are fantastic. Cutest little spot. A total gem in this neighbourhood

★★★★
December 23, 2021

Great coffee and tasty treats

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

My first visit and I was impressed! They made me a delicious hot chocolate while I waited for my friend. Then I had a curry potato soup. To die for! Their COVID protocols were on point and I felt so safe with tables distanced. Definately 5 stars.

★★★★★
December 23, 2021

Wonderful cozy coffee shop with cheerful efficient staff + very good food. especially appreciate gluten free bread + sweets!

★★★★★
December 23, 2021

I m sorry but the bagel just with butter here is another level just grab a quick breakfast because I forgot to bring my sandwich at home. The Asian lady was greatly nice, I was in a rush and she told the kitchen for to make it first for me because I just a bagel with butter and before me was a big order. Definitely come back for the bagel just with butter

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

Everything was fresh and Yummy!

★★★★★
December 23, 2020

Excellent, quick service. And wow, the chai tea late was soooo good. And the walnut, date unsweetened coconut bar was a perfect pair. Yum!

★★★★★
December 23, 2020

Service is always lovely and food is great!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2020

Fritters! Mmmm

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2020

Pros: Local, freshly made, Priced well Con: A little on the soggy side This visit I ordered the 12 apple fritters. The price wasnt bad at all considering if you ordered a dozen of anything from the big places, its be likely more expensive. The fritters were made fresh to order so you know they havent been sitting around all day. They were a bit soggier than what im use to, but they were still very delicious. Great place to try if youre looking for something different from the big chains.