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The Best Bars In Yorkville, Toronto

Rum, Manhattan, Tequila, Old Fashioned
Rum, Manhattan, Tequila, Old Fashioned | © Marler / WikiCommons

Toronto’s trendy Yorkville neighborhood, formerly a hippie haven in the 1960s, has emerged as one of the city’s swankiest areas. The shopping is good, the culinary scene is impressive, and the bars are some of the finest in Toronto. If you’re down for a classy time or a lit experience, Toronto’s Yorkville has some of the best nightlife around.

The Oxley

The Oxley is one of the best pubs in Toronto, specializing in British fare and pints. The Oxley isn’t just a great place for food made by renowned British Chef Andrew Carter, the vast drink options are also remarkable. Be sure to try their specialty ciders while drinking at one of their two bars, or if the weather is cooperating check out their outside patios. The Oxley is sure to become one of your summertime hangouts. http://instagram.com/p/BEBespfQq5B/

The Pilot

Bar, Pub Grub

Flight Deck at the Pilot in Yorkville
Courtesy of the Pilot

Mysterious, vintage, and just downright hip, The Pilot is a bit of a Yorkville institution. The Pilot opened as ‘The Pilot Grill’ in 1944, its name is a nod to the RCAF flyers in the Second World War. Today, The Pilot has a main floor bar, but what makes it truly awesome is its vintage second floor lounge. The Stealth Lounge on the second floor is a unique party space that is sophisticated, while still offering a youthful and whimsical feel. From March to December (weather permitting), check out The Pilot’s ‘Flight Deck’, a rooftop patio with a bar and live weekly jazz music which is a must visit in the warmer months.

Buca Osteria

Bar, Restaurant, Wine Bar, Pub Grub

Basically the only place to get better Italian wine than what you’ll find at Buca Osteria is, well, in Italy. Buca Osteria’s wine list rivals any in all of Canada, with an assortment of wines that come from the most remote regions in Italy. What is even cooler is that Buca also offers wines that are only available to the restaurant, making this a must stop bar. The hardwood floors and white oak layout of the restaurant also give it an upscale and classy feel.

Amber

Bar, Restaurant, Pub Grub

This restaurant and bar is the self proclaimed, ‘it’ bar of Toronto. The lounge room is what makes this bar one of the defining spots in Yorkville . It is the perfect laidback spot for mingling and mixing with other party goers. Head to Amber’s patio, with summer cocktail in tow. Be sure to ask for their signature drink, which is the martini with rosewater. With casual attire, Amber is the new afterwork hit location, or perfect for a Friday night out with friends.

Hemingway’s

Restaurant, Pub Grub

Experience a live sports game in true Torontonian fashion at Hemingways
Courtesy of Hemingway’s
This Kiwi style restaurant, has been one of the most loved bars to come out of Yorkville for more than 35 years. With three bars and four patios, it’s no wonder Hemingway’s is a must visit, regardless of the season. With a youthful, fun, party atmosphere, and friendly Kiwi vibes, you won’t find an air of snootiness. Check out their welcoming open mic every Friday, or end your weekend with a traditional Sunday Roast. At Hemingway’s, expect to become a part of the family.

Roof Lounge

Roof Lounge is as amazing as it sounds. Part of the beautiful Yorkville hotel, Park Hyatt, it’s the perfect spot for a night out on the town. The lounge is 18 floors above the city that includes a 360 window view of Yorkville and downtown Toronto. When it comes to drinks, the Roof Lounge offers artisan cocktails, including the Wild Flower Champagne complete with wild hibiscus flower. While it may be on the pricier side, it’s definitely worth the experience. http://instagram.com/p/BDKN2EuAKnH/?hl=en

Crown & Dragon

Bar, Pub, Pub Grub

The ultimate dive bar, complete with amazing food and cheap drinks, Crown & Dragon is your go to spot for a laidback time in Yorkville. Crown & Dragon offers a complete and extensive list of beers on tap, ranging for locally brewed to international. They also have some of the best drink deals out there, slinging cocktails that are under five dollars. Their claim to fame, however, is Wing Night, where wings are half priced off making this bar the ultimate friends hangout.

Proof Vodka Bar & Skylounge

Bar, Pub Grub

This vodka bar is the best spot for spirits, whether you’re looking for afterwork drinks or late night shots. Proof Vodka Bar has a selection of premium vodkas from Toronto and around the world that will cater to any taste imaginable. They are also known for their mixed drinks that you can take out to the patio, which is decorated in white and lime green to give you the feel of summer. You’ll forget that you’re in Toronto and almost believe that you’re in a hip bar in the tropics. Proof is located at the top of the Intercontinental in Yorkville, so you’ll be able to drink, enjoy, and look down at the beautiful skyline.

About the author

I'm a professional bread eater from Queens, New York and the best melodramatic rapper you'll ever know. I'm basically an emo Drake, that loves new music, new people, and new types of foods. Even the old foods too.

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