staffWriterSince Canada is a Commonwealth realm (and has a long history as a British colony), it’s no surprise that there are still remnants of British culture throughout the country. A perfect example is the popularity of pubs in Canadian cities, especially Toronto.
Short for public house, a pub is usually where people go to unwind and enjoy alcoholic drinks with their friends. Sometimes, pubs have some interesting events like games and trivia quizzes, so it’s no wonder that people enjoy spending their time at these places.
If you’re looking for a great pub to visit in Toronto, here are a few recommendations worth checking out!
The Wren
Address: 1382 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4J 1M9, Canada
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday—4 to 11:30 pm
- Friday to Saturday—12 pm to 12:30 am
- Sunday—12 to 11:30 pm
Contact Number: +16477481382
The Wren may seem unassuming and easy to overlook, but it’s a much-beloved pub in the neighborhood, so you might as well see what the fuss is all about.
The interior gives old-timey vibes. The tables are recycled glossy barn boards, and on the ceiling are chandeliers that look like they’re taken straight out of the 1800s.
To keep up the saloon vibe, the pub also boasts a wide array of whiskeys, bourbons, and scotches.
But it’s not just drinks you’ll find here. There are also several comfort food options.
Pair your drink with a plate of savory and spicy chicken wings, or if you’re hungry, indulge in the hearty bowl of barbeque pork belly or the loaded cheeseburger.
| Pro Tip: There’s also a different special dish every night. Usually, it’s dessert, but it can also be a main course. If the Tonight’s Special catches your eye, you might want to try it. |
C’est What? Inc.
Address: 67 Front St E, Toronto, ON M5E 1B5, Canada
Operating Hours:
- Sunday, Tuesday, and Wednesday—12 pm to 12 am
- Thursday to Saturday—12 pm to 1 am
- Monday—4 pm to 12 am
Contact Number: +14168679499
If you’re in Old Town or exploring St. Lawrence Market, you should stop by C’est What? Inc. It’s near the market, and it’s best known for its amazing local craft beverages.
One beverage you might want to try is the ESB (Nitro) C’est What Durham, which is an extra special bitter brew.
If you want something with sour, fruity notes, try the Jelly King by Bellwoods Brewery. It’s made with cranberry and tangerine!
As for food, you can’t go wrong with any of the fried dishes, especially fish and chips and fried chicken. If you’re with friends, order poutine, guacamole, and salsa for the table and share them with everyone.
| Pro Tip: Sometimes, the pub hosts live music events and open mic nights. Check their Facebook page to see what events are happening on the day of your visit. |
The Duke Pubs
Address(es):
- Duke of York: 39 Prince Arthur Ave, Toronto, ON M5R 1B2, Canada
- Duke of Kent: 2315 Yonge St, Toronto, ON M4P 2C6, Canada
- Duke of Cornwall: 400 University Ave, Toronto, ON M5G 1S5, Canada
Operating Hours:
- Duke of York: 11 am to 10 pm (Sunday and Monday), 11 am to 11 pm (Tuesday and Wednesday), 11 am to 12 am (Thursday to Saturday)
- Duke of Kent: 11 am to 11 pm (Sunday to Wednesday), 11 am to 1 am (Thursday), 11 am to 2 am (Friday and Saturday)
- Duke of Cornwall: 11 am to 10 pm (Monday to Wednesday), 11 am to 11 pm (Thursday and Friday), closed on Saturday and Sunday
Contact Number(s):
- Duke of York: +14169642441
- Duke of Kent: +14164859507
- Duke of Cornwall: +14166403853
The Duke Pubs is a popular chain of pubs in Toronto, and currently, there are three locations: Duke of Cornwall, Duke of Kent, and Duke of York. Each pub has its own distinct menu, but you can expect to find similar drinks and dishes.
These pubs have classic British snacks like fish and chips (deep-fried North Atlantic haddock served with creamy coleslaw, buttered petit pois, and tartar sauce) and bangers and mash (British sausages with mashed potatoes and baked beans).
As for the drinks, you can try any of the imported draft beers like Fuller’s London Pride English-Style Bitter or local Canadian beers like Alexander Keith’s India Pale Ale. There are also cocktails if you prefer something sweet and fun.
| Pro Tips: You can book any of the pubs for your special event. For more information, check out this page. Sometimes, the pubs get fully booked fast. To avoid having to stay in a queue before you can get in, you might want to book a reservation beforehand. The reservation form is on the website’s homepage. |
Imperial Pub
Address: 54 Dundas St E, Toronto, ON M5B 1C7, Canada
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday—11 am to 3 am
Contact Number: +14169774667
Operating for more than 80 years now, Imperial Pub is another favorite among the locals. So, come here if you want to see what Toronto residents love doing in their spare time!
Treat yourself to the char-boiled beef burger, which is made with beef from the Enright Cattle Company and is served with fries. You might also want the chicken wings, which are smothered with the sauce of your choice (honey garlic is the classic choice).
The array of drinks here is also impressive. You have many options for draft and craft beers, and if you prefer a fun drink, try any of the classic or signature cocktails.
If you’re feeling fancy, there are wine bottles available as well.
| Pro Tip: Are you feeling overwhelmed by the noise in the pub? You can go up and enjoy the silence of the pub’s library. You can even use this opportunity to get lost in a book if you want. |
Pour House Pub and Kitchen
Address: 182 Dupont St, Toronto, ON M5R 2E6, Canada
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday—11:30 am to 11 pm
- Friday and Saturday—11:30 am to 12 am
- Sunday—11:30 am to 10 pm
Contact Number: +14169677687
Enjoy a night of fun and great food at Pour House Pub and Kitchen, an elevated gastropub in the Annex!
This pub has different menus depending on when you come (brunch, happy hour, dinner, or late night), but don’t worry because the food options are all great. Order any of the classic pub fare, such as fish and chips, smash burgers, and chicken tenders.
For your drinks, don’t miss out on any of the tap beer options, especially Hop City, Barking Squirrel (amber lager) and New Belgium, Fat Tire (ale).
If you like cocktails, try the spicy margarita. It has the perfect combination of sweet, sour, and spicy!
| Pro Tip: If the weather is clear, take a seat on the patio at the back. It’s quieter and aesthetically pleasing, so you’ll feel at ease! |
Stout Irish Pub
Address: 221 Carlton St., Toronto, ON M5A 2L2, Canada
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday—11:30 am to 11 pm
- Friday—11:30 am to 12 am
- Saturday—11 am to 12 am
- Sunday—11 am to 9 pm
Contact Number: +16473447676
Looking for an authentic Irish experience? Then head to Stout Irish Pub, which is located in the Cabbagetown neighborhood!
This pub boasts a wide selection of Irish favorites. Bangers and Grainy Mustard Mash is a must-try (it’s three Irish sausages with creamy grainy mustard champ potato), or you might like the cottage pie (a hearty dish made with ground beef and vegetables).
Your experience at an Irish pub won’t be complete without getting a drink. Here, you have many options—from beers on top to spirits and cocktails.
There are also non-alcoholic beverages if you don’t like to drink alcohol.
| Pro Tip: Do you want to take home a few Irish snacks? The pub has its own retail store, and there, you can find food items like packs of Irish sausages or Irish white/black pudding. |
The Queen and Beaver Public House
Address: 35 Elm St, Toronto, ON M5G 1H1, Canada
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Wednesday—11:30 am to 12 am
- Thursday and Friday—11:30 am to 2 am
- Saturday—10 am to 2 am
- Sunday—10 am to 11 pm
Contact Number: +16473472712
The Queen and Beaver Public House is a popular spot in the heart of Toronto, thanks to its homey, cozy vibes and its selection of classic British comfort foods.
There are various menus available here (e.g., brunch, lunch, and dinner), each with its own dishes. Some of the highlights include The Q&B Full English Breakfast (brunch) and the Queen and Beaver Bacon Cheeseburger and Chips (lunch and dinner).
When it comes to drinks, you can’t go wrong with the cask-conditioned ale or any of the draft beers (a pint of Kilkenny, in particular, is a recommendation). If you can afford to splurge a bit, try any of the wines instead (there are options for white, red, and rosé).
| Pro Tip: Are you planning a party or a special event with your loved ones? You might want to host it here. For more information about booking this pub as a venue, check this page. |
Walrus Pub and Beer Hall
Address: 187 Bay St., Toronto, ON M5L 1G5, Canada
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday—11:30 am to 1 am
- Saturday—5 pm to 1 am
- Closed on Sunday
Contact Number: +14163637261
Located in the Financial District, Walrus Pub and Beer Hall boasts an exotic and modern atmosphere.
The menu here is also pretty eclectic. You can find dishes from different cuisines.
If you just want a snack, you might like the prawn tacos or handmade dumplings.
If you’re looking for something more filling, any of the pizzas might catch your eye. The coppa and smoked gouda pizza is a bestseller, so you should try it.
As for drinks, you can find a slew of unique cocktails here.
One that you should try is Scarlett’s Secret, which is Havana rum with beet, vanilla, house falernum, and soda water. Love and Death (red pepper-infused Dejado Blanco Tequila) is also really good.
| Pro Tip: Do you want to host your event at Walrus Pub and Beer Hall? Good news: you can! You can send an inquiry via this page to obtain more information before you officially book this pub. |
Brazen Head Irish Pub
Address: 165 E Liberty St 3rd Floor, Toronto, ON M6K 3K4, Canada
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Wednesday—11:30 am to 12 am
- Thursday and Friday—11:30 am to 2 am
- Saturday—10 am to 12 am
- Sunday—10:30 am to 12 am
Contact Number: +14165358787
Located in Liberty Village, Brazen Head is another Irish pub that you might want to visit. It has an inviting atmosphere, and with televisions playing sports, it draws in sports enthusiasts, which is why this place is always vibrating with energy almost all the time.
Go for any of the modern pub plates, such as the fish and chips and chicken pot pie. You might also like the boneless short rib, which is cooked via sous vide for 72 hours, so it’s incredibly tender and juicy!
You’re also spoiled for choice when it comes to alcoholic drinks. There are beers on tap, bottled beers, ciders, and hard seltzers.
If you’re a big cocktail fan, try the Irish Fog, which is made from Bushmills whiskey and RumChata liqueur.
| Pro Tip: Brazen Head has special dishes on certain days (and they’re not available on any other day). On Monday, it’s always some form of burger, Tuesday is all about tacos, and Friday is fish and chips. |
McVeigh’s Irish Pub
Address: 124 Church St, Toronto, ON M5C 2G8, Canada
Operating Hours:
- Wednesday to Saturday—4 pm to 2 am
- Sunday—12 to 11 pm
- Closed on Monday and Tuesday
Contact Number: +14163649698
McVeigh’s Irish Pub is a family-owned establishment that has been around for more than five decades. This pub celebrates the very best of Irish culture, which is why, aside from the food, you’ll also be exposed to Irish music and traditional Celtic tunes.
Treat yourself to a hearty dish like beef Irish stew or fish and chips.
If you really want to go all out, try the steak dish. It’s a 10-oz AAA Canadian beef steak served with mashed potatoes and vegetables.
As for your drinks, you can’t go wrong with a glass of whiskey or draft beer.
| Pro Tip: Sometimes, there are musicians performing live here. If you want to see a live music performance, check the events page on the website, and visit on any of the days listed there. |
Village Genius Pub
Address: 126 McCaul St, Toronto, ON M5T 1W2, Canada
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday—11 am to 2 am
Contact Number: +14165971175
Village Genius Pub, also known as Village Idiot by the locals (don’t worry, it’s an affectionate nickname), is a casual spot serving comfort foods and good beer.
You can start your meal with an appetizer. The fried calamari with chipotle mayo is a winner, and so is the pulled pork poutine.
For your main course, you might like the lamb shank curry, sausage and mash, or the shepherd’s pie.
The list of alcoholic beverages is also pretty extensive.
You should try the fruit beers because of their unique combination of sweet and bitter flavors. Liefmans Fruitesse (made with strawberry, raspberry, cherry, blueberry, and juniper) is a popular option.
| Pro Tip: If the day is clear, take a seat on the patio. It’s not as rowdy as inside the pub, and you’ll also be able to enjoy the fresh air while eating and drinking. |
Scotland Yard Pub
Address: 56 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5E 1A6, Canada
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday—11:30 am to 2 am
- Saturday and Sunday—9 am to 2 am
Contact Number: +14163646572
Are you a big fan of football? Then, you might like to stop by the Scotland Yard Pub.
This spot hosts dedicated gatherings for every game, including the early morning kickoffs!
The Cardiac Burger is the ultimate comfort food. Yes, it may not be good for the heart because it’s all meat, but it’s delicious, so you should at least try it once!
If you’re looking for a healthier option, the cottage pie is worth considering (it has vegetables).
To wash everything down, order a draft beer. Popular options include Heineken, Madri Excepcional Lager, and Rickard’s Red.
For cocktails, one recommendation is The Queen Is Dead, which is made with Earl Grey gin, lemon sherbert, and orange.
| Pro Tip: If you’re planning to dine with more than 13 people, be sure to contact the establishment directly via phone. If your group has fewer than 13 people, you can book a reservation by filling out this form. |
The Feathers Pub
Address: 962 Kingston Rd, Toronto, ON M4E 1S7, Canada
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday—11 am to 11 pm
- Friday and Saturday—11 am to 12 am
- Sunday—11 am to 10 pm
Contact Number: +14166940443
The Feathers Pub is mostly known for its fine malt drinks and whiskies, so if you like these types of alcoholic beverages, you should check this place out.
Aside from the drinks, this pub has a fantastic menu full of typical pub delights.
If you’re here in the morning, you might like the full English breakfast. With its two eggs, baked beans, bacon, and sausages, it is sure to fill your empty stomach.
Other dishes you might like include the grilled salmon served with garlic mint sauce and the homemade meatloaf with red wine mushroom gravy and mashed potato. If you have a sweet tooth, try the traditional cheesecake, which is topped with blueberries.
| Pro Tip: Sometimes, there are cool events happening at the pub like live performances or trivia nights. Check their showcase page to see what events are happening on the day of your visit. |
Paupers Pub
Address: 539 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M5S 1Y5, Canada
Operating Hours:
- Monday—11:30 am to 12 am
- Tuesday and Wednesday—11:30 am to 1 am
- Thursday and Friday—11:30 am to 2 am
- Saturday—11 am to 2 am
- Sunday—11 am to 12 am
Contact Number: +14165301331
The Paupers Pub is housed inside a converted bank, so the interior features sweeping ceilings, grid-iron decor, and old-world charm. It’s aesthetically pleasing—perfect for Instagram!
The menu has your classic pub grub fare—but with a fresh spin.
The Famous Roaster Wings is a great order for groups, and you can choose your preferred glaze. Apple Rum is such a unique flavor, and if you love spicy things, try the Suicide Sauce.
For your main course, try any of the burgers and sandwiches.
The Canadian Burger is a must-try. The beef patty is fire-grilled, so it has that smokey flavor, and it’s then topped with cheddar and crispy bacon—yum!
When it comes to drinks, take your pick between the beers on tap and sweet cocktails (you might like the Red Velvet Sangria, which is Cabernet wine with brandy, spiced rum, and lemonade).
| Pro Tip: The secluded rooftop patio is the best place to be, especially at night. There will be twinkling lights all over the place and a view of the downtown skyline. The vibes are very relaxing and even romantic! |
Town Crier
Address: 115 John St, Toronto, ON M5V 2E2, Canada
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday—11 am to 2 am
Contact Number: +14162049588
While many of the pubs in Toronto boast English and Irish food, Town Crier offers traditional dishes from German and Belgian cuisines. So, if you’re looking for something new, this pub just might be for you!
Any of the schnitzels should be enough to fill your stomach. The chicken one with its garlic butter parsley sauce is the bestseller, but you might also like the peppercorn pork schnitzel or the halloumi schnitzel with mango chutney.
The beverage menu is sure to delight you because it features some of the most well-known beer brands from Germany and Belgium. Some of the ones you might like include Paulaner Hefe-Weissbier, Veltins Pilsener, and La Chouffe.
| Pro Tip: While the pub’s interior is warm and inviting, the patio has the best seats in the house, especially during the summer. |
