On the outside, Small Batch seems like nothing more than a small storefront with a bright turquoise awning, squeezed between a nail salon and a clothing store. But on the inside, the Princess Street gem is a perfect marriage of specialty coffee, local art and small town comfort. 

Let’s start where every café review should start: the coffee. My go-to drink this month has been the rosemary latte — strong espresso, steamed milk and a shot of rosemary flavouring. It may be an acquired taste, but it’s not too sweet and has an herby, earthy taste, perfect for cold weather. 

Their current speciality drink is a lavender latte — it’s a subtle and flowery taste just in time for spring. 

The walls of the café are lined with art by local artists, often depictions of Kingston at its best. Small Batch is a prime study spot — it’s airy and refreshing, the music is soothing and the coffee keeps you there for hours. 

The cherry on top is their selection of snacks. All made in the back kitchen, Small Batch has everything from carrot cake — which is melt-in-your-mouth amazing — to gluten-free dark chocolate cookies. 

Unlike Balzac’s down the street, Small Batch isn’t lunchbox friendly — even if you bring something to eat in a Tupperware container, they’ll have you put it away (trust me). But the selection of food and snacks almost makes up for it, although it’s not too forgiving on your wallet.

Small Batch is the ideal retreat from campus without being too far from campus. It may be called Small Batch, but they pack a punch that’ll have you coming back for more.