Coffee by Joy
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Coffee by Joy

4.7
·154 reviews·Toronto, Canada

A minimalist Toronto cafe with a secret art gallery, serving exceptional matcha and coffee in a tranquil, stylish setting.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Beat the weekend crowds

CrowdLow
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Coffee by Joy

Coffee by Joy

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Beat the weekend crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A minimalist Toronto cafe with a secret art gallery, serving exceptional matcha and coffee in a tranquil, stylish setting.

4.7
(154 reviews)

"It felt like having a drink inside an art gallery, with music and exhibits beautifully balanced for a calm atmosphere."

Vertical photo
TIP

🤫 Push the Back Wall!

Discover the secret art gallery hidden behind the back wall. Always something new to see! :camerawithflash:

🍵 Matcha Lover's Dream

Their matcha is top-notch! Smooth, delicious, and perfectly balanced. Highly recommended. :star:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Secret Art Gallery

Secret Art Gallery

Behind the back wall

A hidden gem! Push the wall to reveal a rotating exhibition of local art, adding a unique cultural layer to your coffee experience.

TikTok+1
Exceptional Matcha Latte

Exceptional Matcha Latte

Cafe counter

Experience matcha like never before – smooth, delicious, and free from grassy aftertaste. A must-try for any matcha lover.

Reddit+1
Minimalist & Calming Ambiance

Minimalist & Calming Ambiance

Main seating area

Immerse yourself in a beautifully curated, minimalist space with calming music and thoughtful design. Perfect for relaxation.

TikTokReddit
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Planning Your Visit

Discover the Hidden Art Gallery

Beyond the minimalist decor, a secret art gallery awaits! Push the wall at the back to find rotating exhibitions by local artists. It's a unique blend of coffee and culture you won't want to miss. TikTok+2

Matcha Perfection & Cozy Vibes

Praised for its exceptionally smooth and delicious matcha, Coffee by Joy offers a tranquil escape. The calm atmosphere, curated space, and friendly staff make it a perfect spot for a relaxed afternoon. Reddit+2

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Beat the weekend crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Enjoy the calm atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

If you push the wall at the back of this cafe it opens into a secret art gallery! 🫨 Check out @Coffee by Joy at 163 Sterling Road they also make amazing #matcha #cafe #toronto #viral #fyp
@jimmy__eatz
268 likes • 5.3K views

🤫 Push the Back Wall!

Discover the secret art gallery hidden behind the back wall. Always something new to see! TikTok+2 :camerawithflash:

🍵 Matcha Lover's Dream

Their matcha is top-notch! Smooth, delicious, and perfectly balanced. Highly recommended. Reddit+1 :star:

My third time coming back to this coffee shop ☕ Coffee by Joy isn’t just another cafe, it’s a beautiful blend of coffee, art, and calm energy✨ There’s a hidden art gallery behind the shelf featuring rotating exhibitions by local artists, so there’s always something new to discover 🎨 They just switched to a new exhibition last Friday, so even if you’ve been before, I definitely recommend stopping b...
@juni.toronto
1K likes • 17.5K views
i’m acc obsessed with this cafe i wanna live here #torontofood #torontocafe #newtorontocafe #foodreview #bestcafe #coffeebyjoy #torontogirl @Coffee by Joy
@rita.eats
2.1K likes • 34.4K views

✨ Embrace the Calm

The minimalist design and soothing music create a wonderfully tranquil atmosphere. Perfect for unwinding. TikTokReddit :headphones:

🐶 Fur-Baby Friendly Spot

Bring your furry friend along! This cafe is welcoming to pets, making it a great spot to relax with your pup. Reddit :dog:

Coffee by Joy - a new favorite 😌 #fypage #torontolife #torontotiktok #torontocafe #torontocafes #torontomatcha #CapCut
@alysia.james
160 likes • 3.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🤫 Push the Back Wall!

Discover the secret art gallery hidden behind the back wall. Always something new to see! TikTok+2 :camerawithflash:

🍵 Matcha Lover's Dream

Their matcha is top-notch! Smooth, delicious, and perfectly balanced. Highly recommended. Reddit+1 :star:

✨ Embrace the Calm

The minimalist design and soothing music create a wonderfully tranquil atmosphere. Perfect for unwinding. TikTokReddit :headphones:

🐶 Fur-Baby Friendly Spot

Bring your furry friend along! This cafe is welcoming to pets, making it a great spot to relax with your pup. Reddit :dog:

🍰 Pastry Caution

While coffee and ambiance shine, some reviews suggest pastries can be disappointing. Enjoy the coffee and art! Reddit :warning:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(154 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Coffee by Joy's exceptional matcha and coffee, complemented by a serene, minimalist ambiance and a unique hidden art gallery. While the atmosphere and artistic elements are consistently praised, some patrons have found the pastries to be a letdown. The cafe's welcoming nature, including being pet-friendly, adds to its charm.

"It felt like having a drink inside an art gallery. The music and exhibits were beautifully balanced and created such a calm atmosphere. The matcha latte was perfect! none of that grassy aftertaste you sometimes get at other places, just smooth and delicious. The café is on the quieter side, with only a few small tables, so it might not accommodate too many people at once."

TB

"The music was very calm. Loved the service, she was very sweet. I had ordered iced strawberry matcha latte and it worth every penny! Truely recommend."

Tenzin Nyidon

"Their matcha is of s really good quality! I definitely recommend coming here for a nice afternoon with a friend. The environment was so calm and cozy and I cannot wait to comeback when im in the area!"

sham ʕ⁎̯͡⁎ʔ༄

What People Like

Exceptional matcha and coffee
Hidden art gallery
Calm, minimalist ambiance

What People Dislike

Inconsistent pastry quality

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Coffee by Joy is located at 163 Sterling Road in Toronto. While it's described as being off an industrial road, it's accessible by public transport and car. Check local transit routes for the best way to reach the area. TikTok

Parking availability can vary in this area. It's advisable to check for street parking or nearby paid lots before your visit. TikTok

Use the address 163 Sterling Road, Toronto. The entrance might be less obvious than a typical cafe, so keep an eye out for its minimalist signage. TikTok

While specific routes aren't detailed in social media, Toronto's TTC system is extensive. It's recommended to use a transit app to find the closest bus or streetcar stops to 163 Sterling Road. TikTok

Coffee by Joy is located in the Roncesvalles (Roncy) neighborhood of Toronto, known for its unique shops and cafes. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Coffee by Joy is a cafe and art gallery. Entry to the cafe and the hidden art gallery is generally free, though you'll want to purchase coffee or treats. TikTok+1

Opening hours can vary, and it's always best to check their social media or website for the most up-to-date information before visiting. TikTok

The art gallery is a hidden feature of the cafe, and there's no separate admission fee. It's part of the unique experience of visiting Coffee by Joy. TikTok+2

Coffee by Joy has limited seating, with only a few small tables. It's more of a walk-in establishment, so booking might not be available or necessary. Reddit

Due to its limited seating, Coffee by Joy is best suited for individuals or small groups. It's not ideal for large gatherings. Reddit

🎫 ☕ Coffee & Treats

Coffee by Joy is renowned for its exceptional matcha lattes, smooth coffee, and a unique hidden art gallery. The minimalist ambiance is also a major draw. TikTokReddit+2

Yes, reviewers consistently praise the matcha for its quality, smoothness, and lack of grassy aftertaste. It's a highly recommended item. Reddit+2

They offer a range of coffee beverages, with a particular emphasis on quality and taste. Many visitors rave about their coffee creations. TikTok+1

Reviews are mixed on pastries. While some find them exceptional, others have noted they can be stale or disappointing, especially considering the price. It might be best to focus on the coffee and matcha. Reddit

While not explicitly stated in all content, many modern cafes like Coffee by Joy typically offer non-dairy milk alternatives such as oat, almond, or soy milk. It's best to inquire upon arrival. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography & Ambiance

Absolutely! The minimalist design, unique water station, and the hidden art gallery make it a very photogenic spot. TikTokReddit

The atmosphere is described as calm, cozy, tranquil, and minimalist. It's a perfect place to relax, work, or have a quiet conversation. TikTokReddit+1

Yes, taking photos of the art and the space is generally encouraged, adding to the overall experience of discovering this unique spot. TikTok+1

The cafe's design likely incorporates good natural and artificial lighting, making it suitable for photography, especially with its clean aesthetic. TikTok

The design is noted for its minimalist, Japanese-inspired aesthetic, attention to detail, and the unique integration of an art gallery. TikTokReddit+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Coffee by Joy offers a unique experience that can be enjoyed by families, though its limited seating means it's best for smaller groups. The hidden art gallery can be a fascinating discovery for children, adding an element of surprise and exploration to the visit. TikTok+1 The calm atmosphere is conducive to a more relaxed outing, and the highly-rated matcha and coffee are sure to please parents. While pastries have mixed reviews, the overall experience of a stylish cafe with a secret art space can be memorable for both kids and adults. Reddit

🐶 Pet Parents

A significant draw for pet owners is that Coffee by Joy is fur-baby friendly! This means you can enjoy your coffee and explore the art gallery with your beloved canine companion by your side. Reddit It's a rare find to have such a stylish and culturally rich spot that welcomes pets, making it an ideal destination for a relaxed afternoon outing with your furry friend. Remember to keep your pet leashed and mindful of other patrons in the cozy space. Reddit

🎨 Art & Coffee Connoisseurs

For those who appreciate both a well-crafted cup and visual art, Coffee by Joy is a dream destination. The secret art gallery is a major highlight, offering a dynamic display of local talent that complements the cafe's minimalist aesthetic. TikTok+2 Pair this with their exceptional matcha and coffee, and you have a perfect blend of sensory delights. The thoughtful design and tranquil ambiance further enhance the experience, making it a sophisticated spot for discerning visitors. TikTokReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art of Coffee and Culture

Coffee by Joy masterfully blends the worlds of specialty coffee and contemporary art. What sets this Toronto cafe apart is its hidden art gallery, accessible by pushing a wall at the back. This unique feature showcases rotating exhibitions by local artists, ensuring there's always something new to discover with each visit. TikTok+2 The cafe itself boasts a stunning minimalist design, often described as having a Japanese aesthetic, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere. This thoughtful curation extends to every detail, from the presentation of their merchandise to the unique water station. TikTokReddit

The calm and cozy ambiance is frequently highlighted by visitors, making it an ideal spot for quiet contemplation, catching up with a friend, or simply enjoying a moment of peace. The combination of excellent coffee, particularly their highly-praised matcha, and the stimulating visual environment of the art gallery offers a multi-sensory experience that resonates deeply with patrons. TikTokReddit+1 It’s more than just a coffee shop; it’s a destination that nourishes both the palate and the soul.

Matcha Perfection and Pastry Ponderings

For matcha enthusiasts, Coffee by Joy is a must-visit. The matcha latte receives consistent acclaim for its exceptional quality – smooth, delicious, and notably free from the often-unpleasant grassy aftertaste found elsewhere. Reddit+1 This dedication to quality extends to their coffee offerings, with many visitors impressed by the taste and presentation of their beverages. TikTok+1

When it comes to pastries, however, reviews are more divided. While some patrons find them to be exceptional and a perfect complement to their drinks, others have expressed disappointment, noting that some pastries can taste stale or not live up to expectations, especially considering the price point. Reddit This suggests that while the coffee and matcha are reliably excellent, it might be wise to manage expectations for the baked goods or focus on the drinks and the unique gallery experience. Reddit