The Best Cappuccinos In Toronto
The cappuccino is a sacrosanct Italian beverage; yet, like pizza or sauce bolognese, we persist in altering its true nature. As it crossed borders, this morning drink became an after-dinner dessert, a mug of boiling milk and espresso, and – horror of horrors – an “ice-cap”! Culture Trip Toronto enlisted an Italian cappuccino connoisseur to set Torontonians straight on what makes a good cappuccino, and where to find authentic versions in the city.
The Cappuccino
Firstly, its mellow creamy goodness is something to be savored at the cafe bar counter, not consumed on the run in paper cups. Secondly, and most importantly, it is a morning drink. In fact, ordering a cappuccino in Italy after 11 am may elicit derisive laughter from Italians who only drink it for breakfast or for a mid-morning break. How we came to enjoy cappuccino like a dessert topped with whipped cream and chocolate after a full dinner, in the evening, remains a mystery. The Italians believe that any milk product consumed after a meal would upset the digestive process.
However, while these gastronomic customs are good tips to remember while traveling in Italy, it must be said that they have no bearing on how this delightful drink is made. So what constitutes a good cappuccino? The simpatico barista at Tazza D’Oro, the cafe bar in the heart of Rome reputed to serve the best cappuccino in town, once, with a smile and a wink, gave these pearls of wisdom and tips:
To start with, the color of this milk beverage should be the tawny beige color of a capuchin monk’s robe for which it was named; its temperature must be mildly hot, and not scalding which makes the milk taste “cooked” and leaves a bitter aftertaste; the foam must be of the perfect viscosity, – a micro-foam which is thick and creamy – please spare me the 3” high dish soap suds that most cappuccinos here are topped with.
Higher foam does not correlate with better cappuccino.
So where do we go for a decent Italian-style cappuccino here in Toronto? Here are five of the best…
1. Sud Forno
Bakery, Pastry Shop, Pastelaria, Pastries, Canadian
2. Jimmy's Coffee
Bar, Cafe, Coffee Shop, Canadian, Coffee
3. Zaza Espresso Bar
Bar, Canadian
4. Lavazza Espression
Bar, Canadian
Cappuccino Fatto In Casa (Made at Home)
Yes – with the right equipment, it is possible to have a fabulous cappuccino right in your own home. Skip the coffee shop queue, grab the newspaper, and stay in your pajamas. All it takes is practice, a milk frother, the right coffee beans, and you could be sipping your handmade creamy concoction in the comfort of your own home.
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