The old digs of the King West staple Portland Variety transformed into a spot for aperol spritzes and gin sours. Pre-closure, it had a 365-day, dawn-til-dusk attitude (that attracted its unadvisable share of crowds) but these days you can still get their brunches and hulking starters to go.

Post pandemic, step onto the set of the Royal Tenenabaums at this Wes Anderson-inspired bar on Dundas West. Dirty martinis, a curated wine menu, small plates, and the director's quintessential old school hotel lobby look are the vibe here. 

Fancy Californian and Mexican eats are on the menu at this Bathurst restaurant and bar. Think green chile cheese smash burgers and crusted quesadillas, plus a selection of craft beers and brews from abroad, cocktails, and wine. 

Roncy's neighbourhood restaurant The Commoner now has a sister bar in Little Italy. More crafted cocktails, fewer craft beers on tap, and a menu with comfort foods (including an epic platter of southern eats) are perfect for large groups once things are safe and open up again.

The old cigarette machine and snack dispenser say it all: like most Hanks we think we know, this Dundas West bar is super down-to-earth. Head here in post pandemic times for whiskey and beer cans from local breweries like Blood Brothers and Woodhouse. 

Parkdale's newest addition is a cafe by day and bar by night. Named after owner Stephen Schweighardt's grandfather, Larry, the recipes on the menu are passed down from Stephen's mom and granny. It doesn't get homier than that. 

Sitting atop the Paradise Theatre in Bloorcourt is a beautiful bar decorated as an ode to this historic theatre's art deco past. The drink menu revolves around three cocktails, the whisky sour, negroni, and aperol sprtizes, with options to play around with the flavour.