At 2102 Queen Street East in Toronto’s Beaches neighborhood, Espro’s French Press Coffee Bar stands as Canada’s only café devoted entirely to the French press method. The minimalist, upscale space doubles as both a Coffee Lab and global headquarters for ESPRO, blending innovation with a mission to slow down coffee culture. Recent collaborations feature La Cabra and Onyx Coffee Lab, two of the world’s most celebrated roasters.
Designed as a Wi-Fi-free retreat, it encourages connection through stripped-back interactions and the ritual of French press brewing. Brushed steel, stone surfaces, and soft lighting set a calm, luxurious tone. In addition to its aesthetic, the café also emphasizes immersion brewing, which allows for a bolder flavor profile.
Central to the experience is the award-winning ESPRO P7 French press, engineered for grit-free coffee with bold flavor. Unlike cafés using pour-over or batch drips, every brew here relies on full immersion in the P7. Specialty grinders like Mazzer Kony S and Mahlkönig EK43 optimize the coarse grounds required, though espresso drinks are also offered via La Marzocco Modbar systems. The staff’s focus, however, remains on showcasing French press versatility.
The award-winning ESPRO P7 French press prioritizes bold, grit-free flavors through full immersion, aided by Mazzer and Mahlkönig grinders; espresso flows via Modbar systems.
The coffee menu features competition-grade beans from global producers, including ESPRO’s own smooth, full-bodied house blend tailored for French press. Rotating seasonal selections spotlight micro-roasters from Toronto and beyond. Barista Jacky Wong curates the lineup, balancing innovation with tradition. Cold brew and loose-leaf tea provide alternatives without distracting from the core offering.
Fresh pastries from top Toronto bakeries complement the drinks. The rotating selections support local producers, aligning with Espro’s community-focused ethos. The signature “ESPRO Bun”—a Danish-inspired butter-and-cheese roll—is crafted to pair with French press coffee. Food choices stay simple and seasonal, mirroring the café’s unhurried ethos.
Designed by Emil Teleki, the 660-square-foot space uses warm creams and muted charcoals to echo the ESPRO P7’s sleek aesthetics. Indirect lighting and low-volume music create tranquility. The absence of Wi-Fi steers guests toward conversation or quiet reflection.
Open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, the café invites exploration of French press craftsmanship. Interested visitors can contact hello@espro.com or follow its Instagram for updates.
