Guides / Spots

The Best New Bars in Toronto

Rosa Kumar

over 1 year ago

Mask mandates have relaxed, capacity restrictions have been lifted, spring is on the horizon, and what better way to celebrate than checking out Toronto's newest bars? Despite pandemic-era life causing no shortage of issues for restaurants and bars, Toronto's latest watering holes that opened in the last year have managed to hit the scene with a flourish; offering gorgeous new interiors, stunning cocktails, and the warm company of our friends and family that we've all been craving these past few years.

1566 Queen St W

Sari NOT Sari

This is definitely one of the more clubby locations on this list, and the snack/dance/live DJ'd bar is a multifaceted hub for Filipino culture. Sari NOT Sari also moonlights as a party venue you can book out, a comedy venue, and the occasional host to pop-up brunches. What CAN'T Sari NOT Sari do?

111 John St

Piccolo Caffe E Vino

If one of your biggest life problems is picking between coffee and wine, Piccolo Caffe E Vino has solved that issue for you. Café by day, wine bar by night, and full-time host to the cutest wine bar cat ever, this Italian bar really comes to life for patio season, so make sure to add it to your Toronto happy hour bucket list.

50 McCaul St

After Seven

This speakeasy is so secretive that I felt like the protagonist of a 2022 Agatha Christie Novel, figuring out its location and how to get in. Located at the back of the newly opened Kome Yogurt, Bar After Seven is exactly the place to go to if you're trying to avoid anyone you know. Hint, order a #8 on their menu.

221 Richmond St W

Selva

I know the people of this city, and they are always thirsting for new and interesting experiences. Selva, an immersive and multisensory art and resto-bar opened up a few months ago but already has a buzzing atmosphere and crowds lined up to visit. Think jungle-inspired glow-in-the-dark mini-putt, but instead of forcing yourself to golf, you can drink pineapple mojitos and admire the art installations.

946 Bloor St W

Port Light

Toronto loves themed cocktail bars, and Port Light on Bloor comes from the same creators as The Shameful Tiki Room, so you already know it will be a good kitschy time. The nautical-themed bar with house cocktails like "Tropical Itch" and "Blackbeard's Ghost" is the perfect place to have a few drinks to usher in the hot weather.

222 Ossington Ave

Bar 222

You've probably noticed the very romantic and candlelit Bar 222 on Ossington on your evening mental-health stroll, and the inside is even more spectacular. From the same owners of Three Speed Bar and Communist's Daughter, Bar 222 continues the legacy (with a 1980s theme) of great vibes, great company, and an amazing gin cocktail called The Emerald of Ossington.