Always looking for funky and wonderful coffee houses(which are hard to find), but this is a gem tucked into downtown Newmarket. Little funky little place with about 5 tables up front and more in the back. Loads of books(new and old, for adults and kids) I had a long double espresso(which was not very hot actually) and a chilli and cheese scone which had more a texture of a muffin, but still good. Lots of loose teas for sale as well. Two staff members very attentive with all customers and they bring
Adam W.
Rating des Ortes: 3 Newmarket, Canada
Only 3 stars at the moment because its not like I’ve tried everything here but I’ve been hitting this place up for its espresso lately(in americano form) So I’m sorta a starbucks kind of dude but like hunting for stuff, I was pleasantly surprised by how flavorful this drink was. Sometimes a strong espresso drink can give you a bit of dry mouth after but their roast is still smooth without taking a hit in the taste. So I’ll keep hitting this caffeinated gem on main street. The people working there are very pleasant too and it’s just a generally good vibe in the place.
Rosie M.
Rating des Ortes: 2 Riverside, CA
Although the environment is cozy and unique with the tiny library in the back, the customer service is subpar. Staff is spacey and need to be reminded of your order from time to time, especially if it’s complex, i.e. beyond a simple coffee. It’s a nice one-time visit, but I wouldn’t rely too heavily on Covernotes as your primary coffee shop.
Julie G.
Rating des Ortes: 4 Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Canada
Very cute place with nice barostas and tons of books to choose from. Great selection of loose tea
Michael D.
Rating des Ortes: 2 Oshawa, Canada
The location is great, the exterior is great, the interior is awesome(love the book theme), but sadly the espresso wasn’t much to write about. We ordered a couple of lattes, a hot chocolate and a london fog. Service was fast, but seemed very distracted and had trouble taking the order. The hot chocolate was rated ‘very good’, but the lattes were mild and tasteless. It’s too bad, because this seemed like a very cool place. As I said, the server seemed a bit off, which may have contributed to the espresso quality.
Caro A.
Rating des Ortes: 3 Newmarket, Canada
I went here twice a year ago. The first time was exploratory, the second was because I had no other choice as it was the only place open. The atmosphere is nice, but if you’re not a coffee drinker and you’re not into eating too much meat, your options are limited. I had the grilled cheese panini both times and both times overpaid for granular cheese on bread. I might try this place again to get an updated take on their menu, but I wanted to warn those away from the grilled cheese.
Stephen D.
Rating des Ortes: 5 Aurora, Canada
Really enjoyed this quaint little gem on Main Street. Very cosy with exposed brick and beams. Comfortable seats and tables, warm staff and great teas and pastries. A nice place to read or meet up with friends.
Alexis T.
Rating des Ortes: 4 Ste. Anne, Canada
Very quaint Tea/Coffee shop in the cute village-like strip of Newmarket called Main St. I stopped in here for a little sit-down, killing time till I had to be at an event across the street. Walking in, you instantly smell the aroma of coffee and that good ‘ol book smell. You can peruse the shelves of the store of their previously owned books while they prepare your beverage of choice. They also provide options for paninis and sweet treats to accompany your drink. My choice was the ever so seasonally suitable, Pumpkin Spice latté. It was strong espresso and heavy on cinnamon but not too sweet. Just right. The guy was solo managing behind the counter and asked how my day was going and about any highlights, very easy to talk to. He wasn’t intrusive in any way and let me enjoy my quiet time at a table inside. I’m not from Newmarket but this would definitely be a place to stop again if in the area. Oh and it was toasty warm, perfect for the chill-phobic girl in me as autumn approaches. Happy time!
Joan C.
Rating des Ortes: 2 Toronto, Canada
The potential for this place is great as Newmarket doesn’t have many independent cafes. However, Covernotes is disappointing. The regular cup of coffee is bland, tasteless unremarkable. The milk/sugar station is quaint, could be more professional. Needs more detail in the cleaning department. Not many enticing goodies at all, the display case seemed barren with hardly any selection worth noticing. Step it up, Covernotes, you have a golden opportunity here in this town. A little too amateurish. Visit some independent cafes down in Toronto and get some ideas.
Tasha D.
Rating des Ortes: 4 Toronto, Canada
Covernotes was a neat little café. I ordered the chai latte here. The desserts looked good. I wanted to save room though so I didn’t order any food. The chai was pretty good(I have to say, I love Aroma’s a little better), much better than Starbucks’. I liked how they had a lot of organic tea for purchase. There’s also a bunch of books here. I didn’t really get a chance to look around as my visit was brief. The place is very quaint and cozy. They had little teeny cups and a jug of water for guests(I really liked that!). The staff and patrons were so sociable and friendly. It must be because we’re so far north(kidding). A very charming place. I would visit again.
Bernie C.
Rating des Ortes: 4 Mississauga, Canada
Headline: WHOA! A coffee shop with books, crêpe’s and coffee? Stopped by this coffee shop and«stalked» a few fellow Unilocalers before the January 2014GTA Elite event Likes –Ordered a London Fog latte. At first, I got a huge whiff of milk and it was overwhelming. However, after a couple of sips, I started to enjoy it more. It was a very strong Earl Grey tea, but it seemed to have a good ratio of coffee to milk. Much better than Second Cup –They actually have books! Like old school books! With soft covers! –They have crepes! –Amazingly friendly baristas! Dislike –Washroom was kinda dirty and is unisex. Verdict: Great indie coffee shop in the area.
Jennifer K.
Rating des Ortes: 4 Markham, Canada
Covernotes is unpretentious and down to earth. Having a coffee and chill out here is just like hanging at a friend’s house. Especially at the backroom with mismatched furniture and bookcases of books! Barista is also the cook. A guy with multi talent! and he is super friendly too! Free Wifi just ask for the password. If you rather not reading books but watching Youtube like me!
Kris U.
Rating des Ortes: 4 Richmond Hill, Canada
Couple of updates I found out about this place: First, after a great chat with owner Tom I learned that all beans they use to brew are the product of the JP Lindsay and Co Coffee company, which ironically he owns as well. that means that the great coffee you are drinking is roasted and made all by the same hands — tres cool no? Also, I got to try a crêpe made specially by Tom last night that made me weak at the knees with pleasure. A Chicken and Brie Crêpe made with roasted red peppers, spinach, a little siracha hot sauce, onions and LOVE. These points all go for their other location in Richmond Hill which I plan to review in the near future :) Up in Newmarket stop by soon before the open concept front patio is closed for winter.