The Best Bars in Toronto

Bottoms up!

Let's raise a glass to Toronto, Canada's biggest city with some of its best nightlife.

Whether it's a quiet, intimate setting, a lively dive with local flavour, or a rooftop outdoor bar with the best view in the city, navigating Toronto's wide variety of after-hours spots can be overwhelming, especially if you are visiting for the first time.

Go where the locals go with UP Express. These unique hidden gems we have pulled together highlight some of Toronto's best nightlife spots. And the best part? You can get there using UP Express! Get from Pearson Airport to downtown Toronto in only 25 minutes or less with UP Express. UP Express also offers two stops at Bloor and Weston, so you can enjoy the night with trains running until 1 am.

So strap on your dancing shoes, clear your pallet, and get ready to start your night in Canada's nightlife capital!

Toronto's Unique Nightlife Scene

Toronto's bars have a unique charm, blending diverse cultures, artistic vibes, and a vibrant social scene. What sets them apart is their accessibility, thanks to Toronto's extensive public transit system. Unlike many cities where getting around without a car can be a hassle, Toronto's efficient subway, streetcars, and buses make bar-hopping a breeze. This accessibility fosters a melting pot of patrons, from locals to tourists, fostering an eclectic atmosphere where conversations flow as freely as the drinks.

Whether nestled in the hip neighbourhoods of Queen West or Kensington Market or towering above the skyline in the Financial District, each bar in Toronto offers its own flavour, reflecting the city's dynamic spirit.

Are you getting thirsty? Let's "dive" right into it with Toronto's best-kept secrets!

Bars Locals Love in Toronto

The Monarch Tavern

The Monarch Tavern in downtown Toronto exudes a welcoming, local feel, making it a beloved spot for residents and visitors. Situated right in the neighbourhood among the homes at 12 Clinton Street, this charming establishment is conveniently located near the bustling College Street and is easily accessible via the 506 College Streetcar. The tavern's cozy ambiance, low light, and friendly bar atmosphere make it a top choice for watching the Maple Leafs or Blue Jays while enjoying pub fare and a wide selection of drinks. The Monarch Tavern is split between a lively bar upstairs and live music downstairs. The Monarch offers a quintessential Toronto experience with its local charm and vibrant location in the city's heart. At The Monarch Tavern, you can't help but strike up a conversation with the regulars at the bar.

Bandit Brewing Company

This raccoon-themed brewery offers a unique experience housed in an old auto garage. This hidden gem is a favourite among locals, offering a fantastic selection of exclusive and innovative beers that can only be found in Toronto. The brewery embraces its Toronto-raccoon theme, which adds to its quirky charm, and visitors can even take home unique raccoon-themed merchandise as souvenirs. Bandit Brewing Company is conveniently located close to UP Express at Bloor Station, just a short walk down the West Toronto Railpath, making it easily accessible for locals and visitors looking to explore Toronto's unique brewery scene.

Best Bars With a Good View

Writers Room Bar

This luxurious establishment, nestled in the upscale neighbourhood of Yorkville, is known for its meticulously crafted cocktails and celebrity clientele. The Writers Room Bar is attached to the Park Hyatt Toronto rooftop and offers a fantastic view of the Toronto skyline, making it a sought-after destination for celebs and those who like the finer things in life. Due to its popularity, it's advisable to make reservations beforehand to secure a spot and enjoy the breathtaking scenery while sipping expertly prepared drinks.

Lavelle

Lavelle awaits, a stunning rooftop bar in Toronto renowned for its opulent ambiance and captivating city skyline vistas. Nestled in the popular nightlife part of King West,  this refined lounge presents a sleek and fashionable backdrop for guests to relax and savour artisanal cocktails while enjoying a small pool space. Boasting elegant décor, plush seating, and impeccable bottle service, Lavelle promises an unforgettable rendezvous for residents and tourists seeking a premium rooftop bar experience.

Harriet's Rooftop

Welcome to Harriet's Rooftop Bar, a hidden gem in downtown Toronto inside Hotel 1, boasting a unique and cozy atmosphere with a breathtaking city view. Located in the heart of downtown, this charming bar stands out for its warm and inviting ambiance, perfectly complemented by an array of handcrafted cocktails and a delectable menu. At Harriet's Rooftop Bar, guests can choose from light bites made from seasonal ingredients and wellness cocktails prepared with fresh juices. And for those looking to kick it up a notch, you can enjoy craft cocktails and bottle service while drinking in view of Toronto's iconic skyline.

Dance the night away at Toronto's best lounges

Lula Lounge

Lula Lounge in Toronto offers a unique dancing experience you won't find at your average nightclub. The diverse and vibrant atmosphere at Lula Lounge makes it a standout choice for those seeking a lively dancing destination. With its salsa nights, Cuban Friday programming, and eclectic live music performances, Lula Lounge provides an inclusive and welcoming space for people of all backgrounds to come together and enjoy the rhythm of the night. Whether you're an experienced dancer or want to soak in the electric energy, Lula Lounge is the place to be for a memorable night in Toronto.

Poetry Jazz Bar

In the heart of Toronto's cool Queen West district, Poetry Jazz Bar is a legendary spot where celebrities often make surprise appearances during late-night sets. After hours, the intimate venue transforms into a lively dance floor as people groove to the soulful tunes of a live jazz band. The bar offers an impressive selection of fine whisky, contributing to its laid-back and welcoming vibe. Poetry Jazz Bar is the perfect place to unwind and immerse yourself in the city's rich jazz culture.

Paris Texas

Toronto's nightlife scene on King Street West has been revitalized with the exciting addition of Paris Texas, the city's newest country bar. Despite being known for its trendy clubs and chic lounges, King Street West now offers a unique taste of Southern charm and country music at Paris Texas. The city kids of Toronto prove that they can still dance and have a great time to country tunes, showing that this genre of music transcends geographical boundaries. This vibrant and energetic country bar in the middle of the city has quickly become a popular local hotspot.

Conclusion:

With its vibrant and diverse nightlife, Toronto boasts many places for visitors to experience Toronto into the night. With UP Express, you can visit some of the city's best bars, allowing patrons to explore the best spots without needing a car.

Whether you're a local seeking a new hotspot or a traveller on a layover, UP Express offers convenient access to Toronto's top bars, making it effortless to immerse yourself in the city's local scene.  

Cheers to that!