Dark Horse Espresso Bar

Editor's Review

Just a few steps below John Street lives this secluded and satisfying Dark Horse location. Although there is an A-frame sign and a branded awning, the front door is tucked underneath a staircase and the windows are slightly subterranean to bring about their most understated café. Squarely in the centre of the entertainment and shopping districts, the shop is in a lovely row of redbricks that have thankfully managed to survive as condo buildings burst out of the ground around them.

The offerings here are slightly different than the usual Dark Horse Espresso Bar as well. You won’t find any enormous communal tables here in the long room that provides bar seating on the main wall and a small booth tucked into the corner near the front window. And coffee is only prepared through their Kees van der Westen Mirage, as there are no filter options available. But the differences fit the space entirely and being separated from the noise at street level creates the calm atmosphere and comfortable vibe that makes for a perfect escape. The café is much less inconspicuous in the summer however, as their gated unit becomes filled with patio furniture and smiling locals.

Reviewed by Peter de Vooght.

Cafe Features

Loose Leaf Tea

Toilets

Wifi

Buy Beans

Outdoor Seats

Table Seating

Coffee + Drinks

Cold Brew

Iced Coffee

Decaf

Non Dairy