Toronto’s array of watering holes

Dark Ale. Rum and coke. Those are my preferences when grabbing a drink with friends but it’s never the reason for getting together. Rarely is that the case when people gather for conversation at their favourite bar around the corner. Sometimes it is, but I’d like to think that most of the time it’s simply to sit next to someone and catch up. It’s also a chance to soak up the atmosphere created by something everyone there has in common. Their neighbourhood. The community.

That quick stop after work to chat about the game or the weather over a pint eventually leads to what’s happening with Joe or Bob or Betty down the street. There’s also that late night get together at a friendly establishment to simply laugh it up or enjoy some music. Look around and you’ll see watering holes in every nook and cranny throughout the entire city.

The inspiration for writing this in the first place is a new spot that just opened in Riverside at Queen and Broadview. Sure there was some controversy surrounding the spot where The Real Jerk used to be but walk into An Sibín Pub and you’ll immediately be welcomed. You know it’s going to be one of those places when Rick and Scott tell you to pull up a chair much like Sam and Woody would at Cheers. They’re going to fit right in.

Head to the Annex and there’s more than a few hangouts catering to different crowds. Kilgour’s has long been the place for local artists to stop in and hang out with an older mix from Montreal. The Brunny (Brunswick House) and Maddy (Madison Ave Pub) have been offering more than enough beer to U of T students spilling out onto Bloor for years. The Pump has more recently provided a literal window to the world outside where you can take it all in.

They are the fabric that makes up the city. Each with it’s own flavour beyond the booze. Many of the buildings carry some heritage and the stories being told offer a lot of the history.

The Local sits on the north end of Roncesvalles Village right next the Revue Cinema. Stopping in to see old friends feels like sitting back in someone’s living room or basement. You can’t help but feel comfortable and stay for awhile. Especially when the menu adds a little something special to snack on at the same time.

Summerhill, of course, attracts an exquisite audience. The Rebel House is always able to comply. The old time tavern encourages everyone to rub elbows while enjoying all the finest wines and local micro brews. Finding groups making arrangements for sporting events or card games while talking business isn’t uncommon either.

You can’t help but love Allen’s on The Danforth for providing a little bit of everything – especially during the summer months when the patio out back is open – or music is playing throughout. Otherwise just walk in with a smile, sit down in a booth or at the bar right away. You can always pop by the authentic Irish pub next door at Dora Keogh and pull up a stool next to the fireplace for a pint as well.

Almost every place in the city has a few televisions scattered about to watch the game, no matter what the sport may be. The Longest Yard in Davisville stands out for the company you keep. Different events always attract the masses to a cozy environment. Lobsterfest is a must. Elections are another draw, if only to debate the outcome.