A Community Hub: Sonndr Cafe in West Toronto
In the heart of West Toronto, a neighborhood cafe has blossomed into a vibrant hub for the local community. Sonndr Cafe, founded by three passionate Torontonians, is not just a place to grab a cup of coffee; it’s a sanctuary for soccer lovers and a gathering spot for diverse individuals seeking connection. With its roots deeply embedded in the love of the sport, Sonndr has become a beacon of belonging for many.
The Founders: A Unique Blend of Passion and Experience
At the helm of Sonndr Cafe are Ashtone Morgan and Liam Fraser, both former players for Toronto FC, alongside their childhood friend Rakgwedi Manet Ramphore, who brings a wealth of hospitality experience to the table. Their shared love for soccer and community inspired them to create a space that transcends the traditional cafe experience. “For the first year, no one knew who ran and owned Sonndr, and we loved that,” Morgan shared with CBC Sports. This anonymity allowed patrons to connect with the cafe on a personal level, independent of the founders’ soccer backgrounds.
The Meaning Behind the Name
The name "Sonndr" is derived from the term "sonder," which encapsulates the idea that every individual has their own rich and complex life. This philosophy is central to the cafe’s mission: to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome. The founders envisioned a space where people from all walks of life could come together, share stories, and build friendships over a shared love of coffee and soccer.
A Soccer-Centric Community Space
While Sonndr Cafe attracts a diverse clientele, its connection to the soccer community is undeniable. The cafe has become a popular spot for Toronto FC players, local soccer enthusiasts, and fans alike. From World Cup viewing parties that spill out onto the sidewalk to the branded jerseys adorning the storefront, Sonndr has successfully woven itself into the fabric of Toronto’s soccer culture.
Morgan reflects on the parallels between the cafe and the soccer field, noting how both spaces foster a sense of belonging among people from various backgrounds. “It’s like a safe haven, a clubhouse,” he describes, emphasizing the importance of community in both soccer and cafe culture.
From Players to Entrepreneurs
The journey to opening Sonndr Cafe began with Morgan and Fraser’s experiences as professional soccer players. With unconventional schedules, they often found themselves frequenting various cafes after training. This led to the idea of creating their own space, one that would cater to the needs of fellow athletes and the community. After a year of operating in an old stained-glass church, they moved to their current location on Dundas West in August 2023, coinciding with Morgan’s retirement announcement after 13 years in professional soccer.
Initially hesitant to heavily brand the cafe around soccer, the founders soon embraced the idea, recognizing the natural connection between their passion for the sport and the cafe’s identity.
Fostering Community Through Soccer
Sonndr Cafe’s commitment to community extends beyond its walls. For the past two years, the cafe has sponsored FC Cold Sand, a co-ed soccer team that embodies the values of inclusivity and camaraderie. The team attracts a diverse group of players, from former professionals to everyday enthusiasts, all eager to lace up their cleats and enjoy the game. “We have guys on our team who were also ex-professionals, played at the collegiate level, or were part of TFC Academy at one point,” Morgan explains, highlighting the rich tapestry of experiences within the team.
The cafe serves as a gathering place for FC Cold Sand, where players can connect and share their love for soccer. Micheal Wagenknecht, the team’s founder, notes that while Sonndr is not strictly a soccer cafe, it has become synonymous with the sport’s culture in the community.
Looking Ahead: Building a Legacy
Sonndr Cafe is not just about coffee and soccer; it’s about creating a lasting impact in the community. The founders aspire to expand their reach, aiming to support new Canadians and those who may face barriers to accessing soccer. Inspired by local initiatives like the Regent Park United Soccer League, which provides free soccer to children in Toronto, Morgan and Wagenknecht envision a future where Sonndr can play a pivotal role in promoting inclusivity in the sport.
With the upcoming Northern Super League and the FIFA World Cup set to take place in Toronto in 2026, the timing of Sonndr’s rise as a community hub couldn’t be better. “We want the game to grow … to promote the culture of soccer and leave a legacy in our own city,” Morgan emphasizes, reflecting the cafe’s broader mission.
A Bright Future for Sonndr Cafe
As Sonndr Cafe continues to thrive, its founders remain committed to fostering a sense of community and belonging. With each cup of coffee served and every soccer match celebrated, Sonndr is not just a cafe; it’s a testament to the power of sport and community in bringing people together. “We’re doing something right, right?” Morgan muses, hinting at the bright future that lies ahead for this unique establishment in West Toronto.