Both Tim Hortons (Next Gen Concept Stores) and Blank Street Coffee offer unique strengths. Tim Hortons excels in accessibility and baked goods, while Blank Street Coffee shines with its specialty drinks and locally sourced pastries. The choice depends on individual preferences regarding seating, tea selection, and the importance of Wi-Fi reliability.
| Attribute | Tim Hortons (Next Gen Concept Stores) | Blank Street Coffee |
|---|---|---|
| Coffee Quality | Uses 100% premium Arabica beans, ethically sourced. Medium roast known for its smooth, balanced flavor. Dark roast also available. Brewed fresh every 20 minutes. Ranked second in coffee quality among major fast-food chains in Canada in 2019. Some find it less bitter than Starbucks, but can taste burnt when stale. | High-quality, sustainably grown beans, consistent gourmet taste. Solid, dark enough without bitter aftertaste. Some find it unremarkable compared to artisanal cafes. Overall coffee quality rivals or surpasses chains like Dunkin' and Starbucks for some. |
| Tea Selection | Not available. | Variety of teas, including English Breakfast tea. |
| Pastry & Baked Goods | Known for doughnuts and Timbits. Baked goods held a steady market share of 70% between 2019-2021. Timbits may not exceed the quality of local bakeries. | Fresh pastries, pistachio loaf, almond croissants, banana bread, vanilla Danish. Locally sourced. Praised for fresh pastries, including the pistachio loaf. |
| Sandwiches & Light Meals | Includes breakfast sandwiches. Grilled sourdough sandwich with maple glazed chicken ham and cheese available in Singapore. | Grab-and-go snacks like yogurt and kombucha. Ham & Gruyère croissant. Limited selection. |
| Store Ambiance & Cleanliness | New restaurant design intended to be cozy and inviting. Renovated locations feature new furniture and a clean scent. Cleanliness generally exceeds customers' expectations. Cleanliness of renovated facilities is praised. | Clean and inviting with minimalist design. Some locations have large windows. Stores are generally clean and well-maintained. |
| Seating Availability & Comfort | One prototype store has 24 seats inside. New design includes an inviting and comfortable atmosphere. | Limited seating in many locations. Some find seating uncomfortable. Other locations offer spacious seating. Some locations are primarily designed for grab-and-go. |
| Speed of Service | Launching drive-thru-only models and switching to digital menu boards to maximize efficiency. | Speedy and efficient, utilizing automated espresso machines. |
| Price & Value for Money | Known for moderately priced yet high-quality coffee. Prices are considered reasonable, especially compared to Starbucks. | Good-quality coffee at reasonable prices, affordable compared to other coffee shops. Prices are considered reasonable for the quality and quantity offered, especially compared to other city cafes. |
| Wi-Fi Availability & Speed | Offers free Wi-Fi at most locations. Bell is the Wi-Fi provider. | Wi-Fi reliability can vary. Wi-Fi reliability can vary. |
| Accessibility | Many locations are near gas stations and malls. Renovated location near the exit of 401 with ample parking. New store models feature mobile order parking spots. | Centrally located near public transport. Parking can be difficult. Step-free access at some locations. |
| Staff Friendliness & Customer Service | Some reviews praise the friendly staff. | Friendly and helpful staff. Baristas are trained to provide excellent customer service. Staff members are often described as friendly and helpful. |
| Specialty Drinks | Includes Iced Capps, refreshers, and energy drinks. Offers hot and cold specialty drinks including lattes, cappuccinos, and espresso shots. New matcha lattes are also available. | Strawberries and Cream Latte, Brown Sugar Cold Brew, Blueberry Matcha, Pistachio Latte. |