Huge crowds descended on Imperial Pub's last call after over 80 years in Toronto
Masses came out to support a Toronto pub on its final weekend in business after 81 years serving up thirsty patrons.
It has been a year of heartbreaking restaurant and bar closures in Toronto, but few losses resonated with the public quite like the news that the Imperial Pub's taps would run dry after generations at Dundas St. E. and Victoria in downtown Toronto.
Last call for the Imperial finally arrived this past weekend, and throngs of the pub's loyal patrons flooded the bar to celebrate its longevity and get one last pint in before the doors closed for good at the end of a raucous Saturday night.
Damn... pic.twitter.com/ZlKG1E8ZWI
— Karon Liu (@karonliu) November 14, 2025
Long lines snaked around the block.
If you're planning to say goodbye to the Imperial Pub today, we suggest going early, these were the scenes last night. pic.twitter.com/bSXQcAjExe
— West End Phoenix (@westendphoenix) November 15, 2025
The bar and surrounding businesses are destined to be demolished to make way for a new student housing development serving Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU).
The last night at the Imperial Pub before it closes after 81 years. #imperialpubliclibrary #pub pic.twitter.com/wggTH4queX
— Richard Lautens (@rlautens) November 16, 2025
TMU announced new details about the 21-storey student residence last week, revealing that the facility would house 1,370 student beds and include two new classrooms upon completion — targeted for 2030.
"This new residence not only increases on-campus housing options at TMU, it also offers another enhanced element of campus life for current and prospective students," said Mohamed Lachemi, President and Vice-Chancellor at TMU.
Toronto Metropolitan University
"Doubling the space for accommodations ensures that students have more options to positively influence their academic performance and be part of a thriving campus community. We are grateful to our partners, Cedar Podium and Building Ontario Fund, for their collaboration in making this project possible and helping develop a central part of Toronto's downtown core."
The Imperial Pub was located at 54 Dundas St E.
