Where to get coffee beans that won't break the bank but taste good? San Francisco transplant needs help.

[Kitchen Imp]

I've just moved to Toronto from the San Francisco Bay Area, where I've been spoiled with excellent coffee beans available from the supermarket. I'm trying to find a source of beans that are as good as what I'm used to -- Peets, for those of you who are familiar with it, or Trader Joe's French Roast -- for less than $10/lb. Is this possible?

I've been drinking Medaglia d'Oro, which I can live with. Yesterday I made the mistake of trying President's Choice in a can. Oops.

I keep thinking there must be something better. Where do you get good, full-bodied, tasty, eye-opening beans? Pre-ground is ok.

[Davwud]

The new Longo's in Aurora has a nice selection. I assume the others do as well.

DT

[Abbeshay]

I buy my beans at Whole Foods Market in the city. They sell big vacuum packed bags, I think they're nearly a pound and a half, for approximately 13.00 each. I buy two bags-one to use right away and the other goes straight into the freezer. This system lasts me about a month and a half and then I just buy some more. The beans I buy are labeled "French Roast" on the shelf but the bag says "Italian Roast", I don't know why. However, the taste of these beans is comparable to Starbucks French Roast beans and I'm satisfied that I'm saving at least 5 bucks per bag.

[jayt90]

Greenbeanery at Bathurst and Bloor has a large selection of roasted coffee, mostly $7-$10/lb.
Green beans at $5/lb, too.
It is a not for profit place, and it usually undercuts the prices at the specialty places noted in previous posts.
www.greenbeanery.ca

[foodyDudey]

Green Beanery is a great place to buy fresh and roasted coffee, roasters and any other related items. That's where I buy all my supplies now.

[basileater]

I purchase green beans from the Greenbeanery. It's a great place. The initial investment in the roaster was about $200 but we have made our money back many times in savings from purchasing the beans green. Also I hate shopping so I prefer to buy a big lot and roast as I go. Cheap, good, ethical -what's not to love?

[currycue]

If you're living too far from these places and the grocery store is your only option. Try these guys:

www.darkcitycoffee.com

I like their Zen blend, but it's all good. And they deliver!

[foodyDudey]

It will be well over $10/lb after you factor in the postage etc. My 2 lb orders were usually over $30 and that's one reason I roast my own now. Dark City has great coffee, just not at the price the poster requested.

[currycue]

True, they are a little pricey. I get my beans from Ideal, personally, they opened up near my house, however, I'm getting really fed up with their grinder issues. Always too course and inconsistent. Wondering what grinder you use or can recommend for a pump espresso machine. I'd much rather the grind be too fine than too course (I tend to make lattes anyway)

Thanks!

[foodyDudey]

I have a Rancilio grinder and espresso machine. See here for pictures: http://www.greenbeanery.ca/bean/catal...

I bought mine in November 2007 and it's been flawless.

[blogs]

Everyday Gourmet Coffee
Lower level and the St. Lawrence Market
http://www.everydaycoffee.com/

I Deal Coffee
Kensington Market
84 Nassau Street, Toronto, ON
http://www.idealcoffees.com/pages/contact.html

Moonbean Coffee
Kensington Market
30 St Andrew St, Toronto
http://www.moonbeancoffee.com/scripts...

All of the above roast their coffee onsite and have good products. Pricing will be in the $9 to $14 range and you will know your beans are fresh

[Danybear]

May seem mundane, but I buy my beans at COSTCO. I purchase Starbucks French Roast for about half what Starbucks stores charges. A good selection of coffee.

[Yongeman]

I concur with DB about Costco. Obviously not as freshly roasted as the local places, but quite good. I buy Zavida Organic, Rainforest Alliance Certified. It's 2 lb. for less than $13! That's only $6.50/lb. Vacuum sealed.

[Davwud]

I stock up as much as I can with the William Spartivento beans at Costco when they do the road show. Really good beans. I grind my self so I can afford to keep them around a little longer.

http://www.williamspartivento.com/eng...

DT

[pâté chinois]

I second Costco's Zavida Organic coffee. I usually roast my own coffee beans but when roasting is not an option, I get Zavida.

[Googs]

I'll happily 2nd Everyday Gourmet. I can get just about anything that I would buy at the St Lawrence Market right in my own neighbourhood. If I run low on coffee, though, I'll make a special trip to the SLM just for that.

[dannyboy]

Lit Espresso Bar, Roncesvalles in the west end --- The have Stumptown beans, 3/4 lb for $12, really really nice stuff

[Nyleve]

Kensington Market - House of Spice. Get either the Royal Blend or Thai Blend. Both good and hefty without the hefty price tag. They'll grind it for you if you want, or you can get just beans.