The Essential Cafe

Wonderful spot with delicious food and friendly service! It’s definitely worth stopping in when you’re at Brock or in the Thorold area. The menu offers a variety of hot and cold beverages, fresh baking, and breakfast and lunch items, with many healthy options available.

I’ve been coming to this café for quite some time, and it used to be one of my favorite spots for lunch and coffee with friends and coworkers. The atmosphere was always welcoming, and the service made the experience enjoyable. Unfortunately, since the change in ownership, the service has noticeably declined. On more than one occasion, interactions have felt unwelcoming and dismissive. When asking simple questions, the responses have come across as impatient and, at times, rude. It creates an uncomfortable environment, which is disappointing given how pleasant this place used to be. I truly hope this feedback is taken constructively, as this café has great potential and was once a wonderful place to spend time. A more friendly and customer-focused approach would make a big difference.

Good coffee, excellent matcha latte, good for breakfast or lunch, nice space for a meet-up, or studying. Speedy and kind service.

It pains me to leave this review as a repeat customer, but I want to be fair and set this in context. I sometimes walk further than the nearby Tim’s to support this local café, even though it’s more expensive and less convenient. Today, on a cold (minus 8), windy day, I stopped in to grab a coffee and asked if I could sit inside to eat a Subway sandwich while enjoying my drink. The café was empty, and while I understand the posted policy and conflict of interest, I had hoped for a little flexibility given the circumstances. The owner’s response was an unequivocal “absolutely not.” I respect that it’s his right to enforce policy, but I expected a bit more tact, discretion, and less condescension. I wish the owner and the café well, but this is my last visit. I hope he reconsiders his approach in future - all the best :) In the end, rules can and should be upheld — but a little discretion and compassion in applying them can make all the difference in a customer returning, and even recommending to colleagues.

Visited the cafe today, I was thoroughly impressed with the warm friendly and inviting atmosphere. My grilled cheese sandwich had a fancy spin to it with gourmet cheese and my latte was amazing. Will definitely return! Compliments to the chef !!!!