Larry's Back Pocket
Larry's Back Pocket is a coffee shop offering unique baked goods on Dundas West.
Taking over the nook that was occupied by Tucana Coffee for several years, Larry's Back Pocket has already upped the charm and eccentricity of the neighbourhood since their opening.
While the name "Larry" may be universally recognized, there's a chance you'll also recognize their wholesome '1940s meets Wild West' interior and the smiling blue-eyed face greeting you if you regularly frequent west-end coffee shops.
In fact, Larry's Back Pocket is the newest endeavour from Stephen Schweighardt, owner of Parkdale’s bar and brew spot Larry’s Folly, so if you've been into Toronto's coffee scene for a while, you've likely seen Schweighardt pouring you a strong cup before.
"The coffee has to be good, but it can be secondary to the space that's been created," shares Stephen, whose love of coffee shops is apparent in his lengthy work history.
His inspiration can be found in his first business's moniker — "folly" refers to a gothic building created purely for appreciation, rather than a functioning purpose, and Schweighardt's goal for his coffee shops is to create somewhere that's simply there to be enjoyed.
And enjoyed it is, with the second outpost already becoming a hub for neighbourhood regulars to happily include in their daily routine.
While the Queen location is an a.m.-p.m. operation, switching over to beers and live music in the evening, consider the Dundas spot its simpler counterpart.
The offerings are paired down at Larry's Back Pocket, but don't fret – Schweighardt ensured the baked goods (which he bakes in-house following his grandpa Larry's recipes) on Dundas are all the best sellers from Queen.
This, of course, includes their famous butter tarts, with the gooiest brown sugar centre and flakiest bottom.
For beverages, all the coffee classics are served up using Vortex beans, a unique and uncommon roaster from Prince Edward County.
Schweighardt recommends you grab a cortado, his personal favourite, to get "the perfect ratio and a rich blend" of ingredients.
Larry's Back Pocket is located at 1413 Dundas St. West.
Fareen Karim