Having created an insanely popular initial Dark Horse near Queen and Broadview, Deanna Zunde and Ed Lynds one-upped themselves when they opened a second, larger location in Chinatown last spring. The light-filled post and beam space is amazing, only trumped by the same quality drinks as the Riverside original.

Revered as one of the best baristas around, Sam James finally got his own digs this summer on Harbord St. Getting coffee here is more than just an energy kick, it's an experience. Just don't expect to hang around long and write that novel as seating is limited.

Line-ups were de rigueur this past summer across from Bellwoods Park but they weren't for Chippy's, Nadege or Clafouti. With Greg's ice cream, good coffee, brownies and other sweet snacks, White Squirrel Coffee Bar continues to draw crowds to its prime West Queen West location, a recipe for success that must be old hat for its owner, formerly a partner at Aunties and Uncles.

The newest cafe on this list, The Rooster Coffee House just opened last month on a sleepy stretch of Broadview across from Riverdale Park. The space is decked out in tables and chairs crafted together by the owners and having good coffee and hot chocolate this close to a toboggan run is such an incentive to play in the snow more that it's amazing nobody thought to open a cafe here before.

If Danforth is a divide, Si Espresso Bar has Broadview covered when Broadview Espresso seems just a bit too far to go. The bright pink exterior bellies the high energy vibe contained within as Edge (the owner) isn't afraid to let you know how he likes his coffee (like most things in life - laid back).

This cozy cafe near King and Portland has a thing for Jimmy's. Mugs of famous ones adorn one of its walls. Let's see, there's Carter, Hendrix, Morrison, Hoffa. Can you guess them all? But more than just a cutesy concept, the cafe knows how to pour a latte and service is always with a smile.