The Best Speakeasies and Hidden Bars in Toronto | TasteToronto

Guides / Spots

The Best Speakeasies and Hidden Bars in Toronto

The Best Speakeasies and Hidden Bars in Toronto

The Best Speakeasies and Hidden Bars in Toronto

Discovering something unexpected is always an exhilarating feeling -- especially if it leads to a stiff drink and a curated bar menu. Toronto has a handful of hidden speakeasies and bars -- some a better kept secret than others. So whether you're looking for a secluded spot to take a date or a neighbourhood watering hole to unwind with friends, there's something for everyone. Here are some of our favourite hidden spots for libations across Toronto.

8

60 Kensington Ave

Cold Tea - CLOSED

Cold Tea - CLOSED

The go-to "hidden" speakeasy of Toronto may no longer be a well kept secret but it is still a staple for excellent cocktails in Kensington Market. Hidden within a nondescript mall, the spot references local jargon of serving underage patrons beer in teapots -- a common practice in certain Chinatown restaurants.

6

2952 Dundas St W

Hush Hush

Hush Hush

This new speakeasy in the Junction is hidden behind a concrete storefront with simple convenience goods inside. Once you pass the freezer doors, you finally enter the bar space where you'll be dazzled by the many neon pieces (which are actually for sale). They serve bar snacks that won't break the bank (dollar patties and five dollar hot dogs) and signature cocktails (all are $15).

5

1047 Gerrard St E

The Vatican Gift Shop

The Vatican Gift Shop

This Leslieville spot is found behind a storefront filled with religious accessories but once you go past the door, you enter a spacious room where you can get pizza, beer and cocktails. There is also an area for live music so this is a great spot for some food, drink and music. 

4

1276 Dundas St W

Mahjong Bar

Mahjong Bar

You can access this speakeasy behind a curtain in a dim neon-lit convenience store, and once inside, you'll be greeted with a spacious area with ample seating, Asian-inspired cocktails and the standard selection of beer and wine. The space in the back also transforms into a dance floor later in the night.

3

89-B Ossington Ave

The Gift Shop

The Gift Shop

Situated behind Barber and Co. on the ever-hip Ossington strip, The Gift Shop serves up whisky and cocktails in a cozy environment. Make sure to get there early to ensure you snag a spot and say hi to the mannequin at the front of the store.

1

214 King St W

À Toi

À Toi

As if this King West spot couldn't get any more lively. After a few too many glasses of bubbly, let your waiter know you want to continue the fun at Hotel A Toi -- Coffee Oysters Champagne's speakeasy hidden behind a room lined with champagne bottles. Inside there is an entirely separate menu of food and cocktails to enjoy -- but be wary -- no photos are allowed inside so you'll just have to visit yourself to see what it's all about.

The Best Speakeasies and Hidden Bars in Toronto

Guides / Spots

almost 4 years ago

The Best Speakeasies and Hidden Bars in Toronto

Amy Zhu

Amy Zhu

Instagram

Discovering something unexpected is always an exhilarating feeling -- especially if it leads to a stiff drink and a curated bar menu. Toronto has a handful of hidden speakeasies and bars -- some a better kept secret than others. So whether you're looking for a secluded spot to take a date or a neighbourhood watering hole to unwind with friends, there's something for everyone. Here are some of our favourite hidden spots for libations across Toronto.

6

2952 Dundas St W

Hush Hush

Hush Hush

This new speakeasy in the Junction is hidden behind a concrete storefront with simple convenience goods inside. Once you pass the freezer doors, you finally enter the bar space where you'll be dazzled by the many neon pieces (which are actually for sale). They serve bar snacks that won't break the bank (dollar patties and five dollar hot dogs) and signature cocktails (all are $15).

4

1276 Dundas St W

Mahjong Bar

Mahjong Bar

You can access this speakeasy behind a curtain in a dim neon-lit convenience store, and once inside, you'll be greeted with a spacious area with ample seating, Asian-inspired cocktails and the standard selection of beer and wine. The space in the back also transforms into a dance floor later in the night.

1

214 King St W

À Toi

À Toi

As if this King West spot couldn't get any more lively. After a few too many glasses of bubbly, let your waiter know you want to continue the fun at Hotel A Toi -- Coffee Oysters Champagne's speakeasy hidden behind a room lined with champagne bottles. Inside there is an entirely separate menu of food and cocktails to enjoy -- but be wary -- no photos are allowed inside so you'll just have to visit yourself to see what it's all about.