With warmer weather comes more time outdoors and for some of us, that means bar-hopping in Toronto. Toronto has so much to offer, from diverse culinary experiences to an ever-growing count of bars and lounges. As a Torontonian, I love exploring the city and sharing the gems that I stumble into, along the way.
We’ve connected the dots around the best bars in Toronto near the Downtown core and bring to you what is tried, true, and tested. We know it can be done and if your tolerance is anything like ours – you’ll make it out okay (very far from sober, but you’ll live). Toronto bar hopping is just another unique way to explore the city!
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Whether you live in Toronto or you’re visiting, be sure to check out some of the incredible tours offered by Viator and Get Your Guide. I’ve used both Viator and Get Your Guide to better explore cities when I travel and I have always found plenty of wonderful options to easily fit my travel schedule. If you want a little something more to bring your Toronto experience together, take your pick from food tours, drinking tours, and walking tours alike.
Please don’t drink and drive – below are some recommendations on where you can stay based on the different Toronto bar pockets you’ll move through. I found some pretty swanky spots to nurse any sign of a potential hangover.
Old Toronto
- Omni King Edwards Hotel – 4-star hotel located close to the subway line, walking distance to Eaton’s Centre and St. Lawrence Market.
- Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel – An upscale space to unwind with skyline views to draw you all the way in.
- The Rex Hotel Jazz & Blues Bar – Toronto’s iconic jazz and blues bar, featuring live music every night.
Chinatown Vicinity
- Hotel Ocho – A trendy hotel, walking distance to the Art Gallery of Toronto and Kensington Market.
- Sonder The Beverley – Lovely chic boutique hotel within close proximity to many Toronto attractions.
West Queen West
- The Drake Hotel – One of Toronto’s most sought after hotels – boasting a nightclub and rooftop bar.
- Gladstone House – Chic rooms, individually designed by local artists provide a perfect spot to lay your head.
Alright – ready, set, drink-drank-drunk!
Top 10 Bars To Go Bar Hopping In Toronto
What to order: we got the Southern Hospitality, a Whiskey Sour, and the Pit Fired-old Fashioned. Great drinks with a good amount of that what matters most – alcohol.
The Vibe: this place has a calm, clean, and collected feel.
The Pull: the chef gave us free apps.
What to order: just all of the alcohol. You’ll either get plenty wasted or have a quick drink and get the heck out of there (if that).
The Vibe: there are two levels with one for partying and the other more casual.
The Pull: exactly as they advertise – cheap drinks and party bar.
What to order: you can’t go wrong with an Aperol spritz but I’d recommend you go all-in with their specialty porch punch.
The Vibe: rooftop bar in Toronto with a view of the city and our beloved CN Tower.
The Pull: in the summer this is the spot to hang out with friends or make new ones.
Further Reading: The Best Wineries in Prince Edward County
What to order: nothing fancy, just your average drinks.
The Vibe: chill, laid back, and edgy.
The Pull: the nachos and cheap drinks.
What to order: we ordered three drinks but I can only remember the one – Pink Negroni, which had enough Aperol to satisfy me.
The Vibe: a relaxed Toronto bar with great snack options to help soak up some of that alcohol, so you can continue on drinking.
The Pull: the big mac bao. It’s a must try!
What to order: full disclosure, the two times I made it out here, it was closed. So, I couldn’t tell you what to drink but this bar sure warrants a visit.
The Vibe: a classy yet funky feel with its Gaudi-esque decor.
The Pull: the WOW décor and tapas.
Further Reading: What To Do At Toronto’s Distillery District
What to order: I’m a rum and coke kinda girl, meanwhile Ragun is all in with his beer. Pick your poison and drink up!
The Vibe: a small, yet cool hidden gem.
The Pull: it serves its purpose. A great spot to kickback and grab a drink.
What to order: pick your favorite drink and slip away.
The Vibe: low-key spot with some nostalgic video game options.
The Pull: well…the nostalgic video games.
What to order: anything or everything from their draught selection.
The Vibe: a funky mix-match of décor with a chill laidback atmosphere.
The Pull: arcade games like Tetris and pinball.
What to order: their cocktails will spike your curiosity. If you enjoy your rum then try your luck at the Dirty Nelly (a good mix of rum and bourbon with a kick of lemon).
The Vibe: vintage underground speakeasy lounge.
The Pull: the secret bar feels – we all deserve some excitement in our life .
Further Reading: 5 Day Trips From Toronto
Book Your Trip: Tips and Tricks
Book Your Flight
Planning your next trip – find a cheap flight through Kiwi.com. I often use this site as it finds plenty of great deals around the globe.
Book Your Accommodation
Use Hostelworld to book a hostel stay or use Booking.com to find you the best fit for all your travel needs. Booking.com is my favorite tool when booking hotels and guesthouses.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance should never be overlooked. I’ve heard some terrifying stories of expenses paid out of pocket because let’s face it – accidents do happen. My recommendations for insurance companies that offer great service and value are:
- Safety Wing (great for everyone)
- World Nomads (extensive coverage)
- Rates Dot CA (Canadian based)
Ready to Book Your Trip?
Take a look at my resource page for the best companies to use while planning your travels. I’ve used many of these companies and recommend them because I truly believe in them.
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We’ve mapped out the route for you below if you were to drive, keep in mind, that many of these Toronto bars are within walking distance, making it even easier to bar hop. To be kind to your body, we suggest you split up the list above and pace yourself. Drink responsibly, make as many pitstops to bars nearby, and most importantly, have a great time!
