My friend James’ recent post about the Tim Horton’s vs. Starbucks debate has started me thinking…
(1) Yes, I’m a Tim’s convert. There’s one in front of my workplace, and my friend and I are regulars every morning. Contrary to James’ opinion, I DO believe Tim’s coffee has a taste: strong, unpretentious, soothing, with a smell that makes love to your olfactory senses. I love every glorious sip of my extra large double-double.
(2) I don’t drink cappuccinos, espressos, lattes, or any of the other fancy-shmansy would-you-like-coffee-with-your-drink creations served up by Starbucks — the Wal-Mart of caffeinated snobbery. That said, I think its hot teas kick major taste-bud-booty! I heartily recommend a grande (yes, I’ll say it!) Earl Grey. It’s so gold that it puts Fort Knox to shame…mix in sugar and half-and-half, and the end result is creamy paradise.
(3) As for the ability to lounge rating of each establishment…well, I think we need to break it down into categories.
If you’re looking for good conversation, a quiet read, or work space to write and/or mark student papers (as I have done on many occasions), nothing beats the seating area of a Chapters/Starbucks. Mind you, some Starbucks locations are better than others (the Ancaster Chapters is particularly pleasing).
However, every morning before work, I luxuriate in a quiet read through my Globe and Mail at Tim Hortons…and every Sunday, I enjoy slashing my way through a Toronto Sun with my large BLT-on-white and extra large double-double…a different environment, but equally relaxing and wonderful in its own way.
It’s strange…I think I have far too much of the proletariat in me to feel truly comfortable at Starbucks. For all my education and intellectual credentials…and despite the smart, intelligent & cultured friends I have…something about Tim Horton’s simplicity will always win over my heart. For all its finery, there’s something missing from Starbuck’s coldly-corporate, suave persona…
…something quintessentially Canadian, perhaps? Tim’s is just so damned nice! 
