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Toronto doesn’t end at Bloor Street, so here are a few extra incentives to head north. North York, a Toronto area home to over half a million people, is as rich in bars and restaurants as it is inhabitants. That said, it can be an overwhelming process to choose where to head for a drink and bite to eat. Follow this guide to the best pubs, bars, and post-work hangouts in North York.

The Goose and Firkin

Pub, British, Canadian, Pub Grub, Cocktails, Wine, Beer

The Goose and Firkin boasts both a great menu and exceptional service, making it an excellent local hangout spot. Firkin pubs are a staple across Toronto (and North America) – channeling the British pub vibe, they’re the perfect place for bevvies and a bite. Offering both food and drink specials daily, pool tables, and dartboards, The Goose and Firkin is an easy choice for an enjoyable experience. Channel your inner Anglophile and head to The Goose and Firkin on a Thursday for their small fish and chips special and a pint.

Buda Cafe

Bar, Cafe

Buda Cafe offers a unique and exciting spin on the traditional Toronto bar. While it’s an excellent spot for casual drinks and food, what makes Buda Cafe stand out is their Hookah rental. If you fancy trying out hookah, a popular social experience typical of the Middle East, Buda Cafe is a must-visit. Overall, Buda Cafe boasts a relaxing and casual experience where you can indulge in a variety of treats – whether it’s a drink, a pot of tea, or even waffles.

JOEY Don Mills

Bar, Restaurant, American, Asian, Italian, Vegetarian

An incredibly popular hangout in North York, JOEY Don Mills is located in the heart of the Shops of Don Mills. Offering both a more formal dining setting and a separate, casual bar area, JOEY has something for all and is one of the few chain restaurants that doesn’t feel like a chain. With an extensive wine list, daily drink specials, and a more sophisticated menu, JOEY is a trendy option for a tremendous experience. JOEY features ‘7 Days of Drinking Deals’, so you’re guaranteed to snag a deal on beverages.

Glow Fresh Grill and Wine Bar

Wine Bar, Restaurant, Canadian, Healthy, Vegan, Vegetarian, American, Wine, Beer

With a menu inspired by health icon Rose Reisman, Glow Fresh Grill and Wine Bar is perfect for the health conscious bar-goer. Glow boasts an excellent Monday special; half-price wine, both by the glass as well as the bottle. If you’re looking for a more upscale, health-friendly place to enjoy your evening, look no further. Glow’s menu, modern decor, and overall service experience will be sure to please. With an extensive drinks list – five pages of wines, cocktails, and beers – and impressive wine cellar, Glow isn’t messing around when it comes to drink options.

The Burger Cellar | Burger Grill + Wine Bar

Bar, Wine Bar, Canadian, Cocktails, Wine, Beer, Vegetarian, Vegan

The Burger Cellar + Wine Bar has managed to merge two of the best things in life – a burger grill and wine bar. The Burger Cellar, an upscale burger-wine bar, is exceptional, to say the least. Offering both a dining section and separate bar area, Burger Cellar has something for everyone, including a selection for vegetarians. The relatively small bar setting makes for an intimate vibe and boasts great service, flavorful drinks, and a lively experience. Represent Toronto and go for The Hogtown Burger; choose from one of three patties (AAA Black Angus Natural, Prime Grade Beef, or Certified Organic Bison), topped with Block & Barrel aged cheddar and apple wood bacon.

Twister Karaoke

Bar, Canadian, Korean

Twister Karaoke is sure to be a unique and exciting experience. With an excellently curated music selection – including both contemporary hits and old-school classics – you’ll have a fun night out, whether you’re with friends, family, or coworkers. Not so confident when it comes to your singing prowess? You’re in luck; Twister Karaoke provides booths and VIP areas so guests can sing without an audience of strangers silently judging their renditions. For a dose of liquid courage, Twister Karaoke serves up a wide variety of drinks (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic), and if you’re feeling peckish, opt for an order of ramen noodles.

Safari Bar and Grill

Restaurant, Bar, Pub, Beer, Canadian

Dining room at Safari
Courtesy of Safari

With a relaxing and friendly atmosphere, Safari Bar and Grill is always a great choice for a low-key night of drinks and pub food. It offers both a downstairs section devoted to dining and an upstairs section with a sports bar, pool hall vibe. In addition, Safari Bar and Grill boasts a fantastic Sunday brunch during which mimosas can be made to order. Either way, Safari Bar and Grill offers something for everyone, every occasion, and every time of day.

Oxygen Restaurant & Lounge

Restaurant, Canadian, Vegetarian

If you’re not feeling the bar scene, but still fancy a drink, Oxygen Restaurant & Lounge is an excellent choice in North York. With a casual bar setting, Oxygen is an ideal spot for that post-work pint. Their extensive drinks menu is sweetened by the fact that they brew a variety of delicious beers in-house, including a must-try gold lager. With an extensive menu, a globally inspired selection of dishes – many of which are Mediterranean inspired – and a variety of options regardless of dietary constraints, Oxygen Restaurant & Lounge is sure to satisfy any craving. Keep your eyes peeled and ears open for their live music evenings.
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