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Tequila + Books + Worms = Good Coffee?
On our endless quest for cool places to go and different things to do, Torontoist can’t seem to stray far from the inarguably cool ‘hood of Queen Street West. Tequila Bookworm exists relatively unmarked just west of Augusta on Queen, and relies on its cool crowd and loyal regulars to draw passersby inside. 
Without a huge billboard-style sign out front or a dizzying chalkboard menu above the bar like the impersonal coffee franchises nearby, the quaint anonymity of TB is refreshing.
It’s hard to call it just a coffee shop. But it’s not quite a restaurant either. Nor is it only a lunch stop cafe or ice cream shop, or simply another used bookstore. As difficult to define as the bohemian ‘hood that houses it, TB has it all.
Officially, Torontoist supposes TB doubles as a cafe and used bookstore. But the best part has to be the huge selection of current magazines you can read and put back without buying (yep, you read it here, it’s true!) and the infinite amount of people-watching material. You can sit forever, alone or with friends, and if you’re into lounging around comfortably on retro (read tattered, old, yet charming) furniture, then you fit in already.
Torontoist loooooves TB’s fresh Montreal-style bagels, but there’s something for everyone when the menu doesn’t list a single item over 10 bucks. Their smoothies and desserts might put your mom’s efforts to shame, and the alcoholic menu isn’t lacking either. They serve up mean omelet brunches, fresh sandwiches or salads, and mouth-watering crepes at unbeatable prices.
TB’s only fault is the atmosphere is sooo casual and laid back that the service can be a tad slow. Although the staff are very friendly, if you miss the “sit for service, stand for takeout” sign you may stand for hours staring aimless and confused before someone takes pity on your ignorance.
Go see for yourself, if you don’t walk right past it. TB’s got the eclectic environment and crowd of a bookstore with the soundtrack of a lounge. All it needs is some free wireless Internet action and Torontoist may consider living there.
Tequila Bookworm
490 Queen Street West
416-504-7335
http://tequilabookworm.blogspot.com/