Monopol Cafe is a cozy hub for coffee, crepes, pastries and a multitude of other hot drinks in Greektown. 

Opened by Tony Rexhepaj, who also owns Souv Like next door, this was his desire to realize his grandfather's dream of owning a coffee shop. 

Formerly a college learning centre, Rexhepaj spent aroung $300,000 to renovate the space into a cafe. 

The result is a sleek, modern-looking interior with tables lining the serving counter and larger booths for groups in the back. 

Rexhepaj says Monopol's menu is a fusion of drinks and dishes influenced by North American and European-style cafes.  

I try the Hot Chocolate ($4) which is a dressed-up version of what I'm used to seeing at other cafes. It's made from a mixture of half whole milk and half hot water, and the addition of cocoa powder. 

It has an authentic chocolate taste and the use of whole milk adds to the creaminess of the drink. You'll be done drinking this before you know it. 

The Freddo Cappuccino ($4.35) is a popular choice at Monopol. It tops a double espresso shot with a cup of frothy sweet cream that's dusted with cinnamon to finish. 

It tastes like a sweet cream cold brew you'd get at a known Seattle-based coffee chain, except it's a little cheaper. While the coffee tastes strong, it's mellowed out by the whipped sweet cream. 

The other star on Monopol's menu is the crepes. I tried the Spicy Me Up ($12). It contains shredded chicken, egg, cheese, tomato, onion, mushroom and hot sauce. 

It's a good savoury, protein-filled option for breakfast. 

The 6ix crepe ($12.45) was my favourite. The paper-thin pancake is wrapped around bits of brownie, chocolate hazelnut spread, mozzarella, and strawberries then topped with maple syrup. 

You might be wondering how the cheese fits into this delicious dessert, but the combination with the sweet fillings tasted like a slice of chocolate cheesecake. 

The Blooming crepe ($13.12) is another option for those with a sweet tooth but who aren't a fan of chocolate. This dish is fruit-heavy and filled with bananas, strawberries and blueberries. There's an optional addition of vanilla ice cream. 

You could opt out of the maple syrup that's drizzled inside since this crepe has a lot of sweet flavours coming from the berries. 

Monopol Cafe faces a busy strip outside Pape subway station near Danforth Avenue.