Orange Alert

Perched on the North East corner of Dundas and McCaul, and overlooking Frank Gehry's wood and glass crafted AGO renovation sits the less auspicious Orange Alert, a self described organic coffee and espresso bar. In a neighbourhood ripe with unconventional artistic flare and an enviable creative presence this unique and independently owned location seems the 'natural choice' for gallery goers and those seeking out a dose of creative culture. Although Orange Alert shares its block with industry giants such as Starbucks and Tim Hortons, in such an inspired neighbourhood, how dare you!

As I entered Orange Alert, my attention remained with Frank Gehry's renovation, most likely what Orange Alert was hoping for when they designed their space, which credit to them, has a fantastic view of the AGO and surrounding neighbourhood. However, one can only look at glass (that is not a mirror reflecting my own image) for so long without losing interest. Eventually my eyes were diverted, and when they were it was unfortunate. The interior can generously be described as incorporating elements of hard loft design, there's exposed brick and duct work, and other common loft elements. However, in architecture I would imagine there's a distinct difference between 'urban unpolished' and 'urban incomplete', with this design falling woefully close to the latter.

Diverting my attention from the 'understated' interior, I noticed that there were indeed people inside the establishment. However, this art community staple fell far short of my clientele expectations. I was hoping to see Riopelle sipping an espresso with the next Tom Thompson, or Malcolm Rains reflecting on the work of Jackson Pollock. Instead, a Group of Seven would have more than doubled their crowd.

However, as with any coffee shop, a great coffee can forgive even the most dramtic shortcomings. As I turned to the coffee bar, I was pleasantly surprised to see an extensive chalk board menu (a personal favourite) brimming with endless caffeine creations. Never one to stray too far from my traditional and rather unadventurous coffee slections, I ordered their mild blend called the 'Butter'. The service was good, and the coffee was more than acceptable. However, I couldn't help but think the person truly getting buttered was the owner, as the prices came dangerously close to thievery. There is an enduring struggle between social responsibility and financial responsibility when it comes to organic fair trade coffee, never has a finer battle ground been staged than at Orange Alert.

I give it 6/10.