Gene Coffee Bar

My next java craving led me to Gene Coffee Bar. Located on 2404 Main Street, Gene is located on 2404 Main Street, in the heart of main street and mount pleasant district, where main street and kingsway divide.

The decor of Gene was very simple, very minimal. It wasn't an eyesore, it wasn't overbearing but it wasn't bare.It looked like a studio loft, which is fitting as most of the people there were artists and writers. There were people sketching on their art pads and writers writing away on their mac books. It felt like a creativity class that happened to be serving coffee and treats, instead of a coffee shop that was invaded by art and writing students. It makes sense, as I believe coffee is the spark that lights the creative flame. After all, I do get all my writing done in a coffee shop.

The service was mediocre. The servers were a bit standoffish. They made minimal eye contact and small talk, almost like they were bored. I don't expect them to stare me straight in the eyes as we have a full on conversation but regardless, it felt awkward. Still, I've had worse service.

It ordered their cappuccino. While it didn't taste like pure espresso, it was still quite powerful. It felt like a right hook to my tastebuds and an uppercut to my brain, instantly sending a jolt of energy down and around my body. The taste of espresso was eventually replaced by the taste of milk. I'll admit that I like to experience the flavour of the milk right away with the espresso so overall, this cappuccino fared on the stronger side.

If you like your coffee strong but don't care for service, check out Gene's Coffee Bar. If you're an arts student, that I highly recommend going to Gene while getting your work done. I would not be surprised if a regular at Gene turned out to be a future artist, writer or fashion designer. The chic, modern decor encourages, not distracts. Otherwise, there are other coffee shops in the area that value good coffee and good service. Just don't forget your mac book and sketch pad!

Prado Cafe Raspberry Bar

Guys, I'm not the most religious person, but I'm pretty sure I experienced a taste of heaven earlier. I decided to return to Prado Cafe (1938 Commercial Drive, just on the corner on 4th) for their Americano Misto. However, upon reading online reviews of the cafe, I noticed that everyone raved about the raspberry bars, and how they're the best thing ever. My sweet tooth was acting up, so I decided to try the raspberry bar as.

Well, I'm certainly glad I did! After taking the first bite, I felt instant ecstasy. The fruity raspberry taste did a happy dance on my taste buds as it lingered. The crumble bit was the perfect compliment, giving it a nice texture. It tasted fresh, not like it was laden with chemicals or preservatives. And even better, it's baked by someone who works at Prado, instead of it being shipped in frozen. If you support local food, than show it by ordering it. I wanted to take a photo of the entire thing but unfortunately, I succumbed to the delicious flavour. I will, however, post the remnants of it. I do highly recommend you try it when you're on the drive. Make sure to pair it with their world class cappuccino. In fact, I can confidently say that Prado makes the best cappuccino in town. Oh, and their Americano Misto is pretty damn good too. I'll have to try it again but next time, I'm going to pair it with their latte.

So next time you find yourself on Commercial Drive, (particularly on the corner of 4th), come in and order their raspberry bar and cappuccino. Your taste buds will thank you.