The very best 12 nightlife spots in Toronto, Canada
Welcome to the city that never sleeps, Toronto! Brace yourself for a wild ride through the best nightlife spots this vibrant metropolis has to offer. From charming watering holes hidden beneath neon signs to rooftops boasting majestic city views, this article will unveil the top 12 places where good times and great memories are practically mandatory. So, grab your dancing shoes, prepare your taste buds for delicious libations, and get ready to party like a true Torontonian!
Save destination1. The Painted Lady
218 Ossington Ave, Toronto, ON M6J 2Z9, Canada
Welcome to The Painted Lady, a delightful gem nestled in the heart of Toronto. As beguiling as its name suggests, this vibrant bar is akin to stumbling upon a unicorn in a crowded city. Grab a seat and let the lively atmosphere embrace you like a long-lost friend, while the extensive drink menu offers libations that will make your taste buds do a victorious happy dance. From first-time visitors to seasoned locals, everyone leaves The Painted Lady wishing they could stick around just a little longer, like that friend who never fails to make your Monday mornings bearable.
Learn more2. Sin & Redemption
136 McCaul St, Toronto, ON M5T 1W2, Canada
Welcome to Toronto, the city that has mastered the art of sin and redemption! Indulge your sinful side by experiencing the vibrant nightlife, dotted with trendy bars and clubs that'll have you dancing until sunrise. But fear not, for redemption awaits at every corner through the countless churches where you can confess your sins and pray for salvation, ensuring a well-rounded experience in the city of contrasts. So, embrace the sinful allure of Toronto and bask in the redeeming light that is sure to cleanse your soul!
Learn more3. The Shameful Tiki Room
1378 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M6K 1L7, Canada
Welcome to The Shameful Tiki Room, Toronto's tropical hideaway where kitsch meets cocktails! Step into a world where pineapples don floral crowns and flamingos become your new best friends. Lose yourself in the mesmerizing Polynesian decor and sip on their signature Mai Tai while imagining you're on a deserted island, without a care in the world - just don't forget to bring your sense of humor (and your appetite for fun) along for the ride!
Learn more4. The Only Cafe
962 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4J 1M1, Canada
Welcome to The Only Cafe, where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee will give your nostrils a bear hug! With its cozy and funky atmosphere, this Toronto gem is precisely the type of place where you can sip your latte, feel civilized, and pretend to be a published author. Plus, their menu is so extensive that even Goldilocks would find the perfect blend of drinks and snacks - just don't be surprised if you end up having an existential crisis over choosing between an almond milk chai and a matcha green tea smoothie (decisions, decisions!).
Learn more5. Bar Raval
505 College St, Toronto, ON M6J 2J3, Canada
Nestled in the cool streets of Toronto, Bar Raval is a true hidden gem for both locals and adventurous travelers searching for a taste of Spain. This whimsical establishment, crafted by a team of artistic wizards, resembles a quirky Gaudi masterpiece rather than your typical tapas bar. Prepare to be transported to the bustling streets of Barcelona as you sip on some sangria, enjoy delectable pintxos, and gaze at the intricate wooden curves that sprawl across the entire space, reminding you that apparently, even bars can have an identity crisis.
Learn more6. Sweaty Betty's
13 Ossington Ave, Toronto, ON M6J 2Y8, Canada
Welcome to Sweaty Betty's in Toronto, where the motto seems to be, "Leave your sweat, take your self-doubt!" As you step inside this fitness haven, be prepared to embrace the sweat stains on the walls and the smell that could wake up even the sleepiest of grizzly bears. Sweaty Betty's is not just a gym; it's an embodiment of the collective perspiration of Torontonians on their quest for six-pack abs and a lifetime supply of endorphins.
Learn more7. The Hole in the Wall
2867A Dundas St W, Toronto, ON M6P 1Y9, Canada
Welcome to The Hole in the Wall, a quirky gem tucked away in the heart of Toronto! This delightful watering hole boasts an atmosphere reminiscent of stumbling into your grandmother’s basement, complete with vintage furniture that simultaneously screams "comfort" and "what year is it?" Don't be fooled by the name though - the only thing you'll find here are friendly faces, live music, and drinks that magically disappear faster than your excuses for not joining the dance floor.
Learn more8. Mother Cocktail Bar
874 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M6J 1G3, Canada
Welcome to Mother Cocktail Bar in the heart of Toronto, where mingling with locals means getting drunk on trendy ambiance! This swanky spot boasts walls adorned with art deco wallpaper that seems to scream, "Instagram me now!" Get ready to be mesmerized by a dazzling display of mixologists in suspenders who can juggle three shakers while simultaneously spewing off trivia about the history of salt-rimmed glasses. And don't forget to try their signature drink, the "Mother's Sigh," a concoction guaranteed to make you forget your worries and your ex's name – temporarily, at least.
Learn more9. The Cloak Bar
488 Wellington St W, Toronto, ON M5V 1E9, Canada
Welcome to The Cloak Bar, where drinks and good times are more than just a façade! Nestled discreetly amidst the bustling streets of Toronto, this hidden gem is like a ninja warrior of cocktail lounges. With its mysterious entrance tucked away, finding it might feel like an Indiana Jones adventure, but rest assured, once inside, you'll be rewarded with an ancient temple of mixology delights. Whether you're in search of classic concoctions or innovative potions, The Cloak Bar will cloak you in comfort and leave your taste buds swirling with delight.
Learn more10. Bar Isabel
797 College St, Toronto, ON M6G 1C7, Canada
Welcome to Bar Isabel, Toronto's speakeasy-style gem where you can indulge in a tapestry of tastes that will make your palate do a happy dance. Swanky and brimming with character, this joint strikes the perfect balance between cozy and captivating, just like that classic detective novel you've been meaning to read but still haven't. Go ahead, dive into their tantalizing tapas, sip on an artisanal cocktail, and let the smooth jazz whisk you away to a world where calories don't exist and everyday responsibilities are left at the door.
Learn more11. Birreria Volo
612 College St, Toronto, ON M6G 1B4, Canada
Welcome to Birreria Volo, Toronto's beer sanctuary where hops enthusiasts come to froth with glee! Nestled amid the hustle and bustle of Toronto's vibrant cityscape, this little gem is a haven for beer lovers seeking salvation from the drudgeries of everyday life. With a whimsical decor resembling a cross between a brewery and a medieval monk's hideaway, it's like stepping into a wondrous world where ale reigns supreme and time has no meaning.
Learn more12. Handlebar
159 Augusta Ave, Toronto, ON M5T 2L4, Canada
Welcome to Handlebar, a quirky and delightful gem nestled in the vibrant heart of Toronto. This funky joint effortlessly combines the charm of a rustic saloon with the whimsy of a bike enthusiast's dreams. Prepare to be greeted by a spirited crowd, basking in the cozy ambiance that is part bike shop, part dive bar, and all magnet for the city's coolest two-wheeled enthusiasts.
Learn moreHow to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Toronto by plane is to fly into Toronto Pearson International Airport, which has connections to many major cities around the world.
Car
Driving to Toronto is a viable option from various cities across North America. From New York City, it takes approximately 8 hours to reach Toronto via I-90E and over the Niagara Falls border crossing.
Train
There is the VIA Rail train service from Montreal to Toronto that provides scenic views of the countryside and the journey takes approximately 4-5 hours.
Boat
There are currently no direct boat routes to Toronto, however, you can take a ferry from Rochester, NY to Toronto Island Airport and then take a short flight to Toronto's Billy Bishop Airport.
Bus
Taking a coach bus from New York City's Port Authority Bus Terminal is a popular way to get to Toronto. Bus companies like Greyhound and Megabus provide direct services to Toronto's Bus Terminal.