Escape downtown’s busyness with this hidden Moss Park gem

Tucked in the basement of a plant shop, this hidden gem will lure you in with its homemade gelato and make you stay for the good community vibes.

Located down the stairs from Plant Society at 185 Queen St. E., Moss Park Espresso is open every day, except Monday, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Weekdays are typically quiet and slow, while weekends can get busy at the café.

Even though it’s small with limited seating, it makes up for it with warmth and coziness.

It’s not the traditional third space, since you have to pay for a drink or snack to sit and there’s a loosely enforced hour seating limit. However, it’s an intentional meeting place for many in the community.

Laptops aren’t allowed, forcing you to actually chat with your barista or friends, or even strangers at the next table. If you’re shy, don’t worry, the owner, Joe Furfaro, makes everyone feel welcome.

As you walk down to the café, you’ll notice a notebook with “thank yous” and cute drawings that customers left for Furfaro, in English and Italian.

Why Italian? Furfaro’s parents immigrated to Canada from Italy. He prides himself on his heritage.

Moss Park Espresso offers, well…espresso, specifically an Italian espresso blend. You can grab a drink for three to five dollars, some biscotti and pastries.

It’s also known for homemade gelato that Furfaro makes himself in the back. When we visited last week, many flavours were available, including chocolate hazelnut, ricotta with cardamom and orange zest, pistachio, mango and cream with cherry amaretto. Each scoop is for six dollars.

Another special feature is the artwork on the walls, as Furfaro regularly invites local artists to showcase their work, whether it’s a painting or textiles.

Last February, the space also hosted a flower arrangement workshop, paired with tea, dessert and gelato tastings. So, keep an eye on Moss Park Espresso’s Instagram in case they host more community events.

Check out my rating for the café’s vibes, coziness, affordability and transit accessibility on The Green Line’s Third Spaces Map — then explore more spots to hang out near you!