best pubs toronto

The Best Pubs in Toronto

The best pubs in Toronto tick the boxes that matter, smashingly well. Comfortable spots with great food, chummy staff, entertainment and plenty of booze, they provide more than just a simple meal. Whether you go traditional or modern, you'll be chuffed to have found these stellar spots.

Here are the best pubs in Toronto.


House on Parliament
1

House on Parliament

As perfect for an afternoon pint as it is for a weeknight dinner, rollicking night out, or Sunday brunch, this Cabbagetown go-to has been in the business of serving great food, drink and hospitality for more than 20 years. Nip in, seven days a week, for rib-sticking fare, like savoury pies and fiery wings.

C'est What
2

C'est What

Fresh fare and a dizzying number of draught and bottled craft beers and ciders have cemented this St. Lawrence Market area pub's popularity since it opened, in 1988. Events — from trivia to open mic nights — mean there's generally some entertainment to pair with your food and drink.


The Caledonian
3

The Caledonian

A College St. destination with a serious thing for whisky, this one throws classic Scottish dishes, cocktails and plenty of beer into the mix to ensure there's something for everyone. Whether you sit in the cozy main space or on the spacious back patio, the Highland Haggis Burger is a sight to behold.

Bar Volo
4

Bar Volo

There's little one can't find at this cooler-than-thou St. Nicholas St. spot. Trust the team with your lunchtime panino and coffee, your aperitivo needs, and beer paired with dinnertime staples. From a house-brewed draft selection to the rotating taps, there's always a number of intriguing pours on offer.


Queen and Beaver
5

Queen and Beaver

To feel like you've hopped across the pond, head to this public house near Yonge and Dundas for live footy, real ale and proper pub grub. Spread across two floors, the roomy spot can accommodate you and your best mates when the cravings for lamb curry, fish and chips and Welsh rarebit hit.


Bryden's
6

Bryden's

Popular with the Bloor West Village crowd, this welcoming space attracts the thirsty, the hungry and those hankering for a good time — in equal measure. Regulars side ale and craft beers with menu items ranging from Scotch eggs and veal schnitzel to General Tao chicken, and more.

The Local
7

The Local

When your daily pint is served by a friendly team to the tune of lively live music, you know you've found your nirvana. Take it in, along with comfort food, from mozz sticks to mushroom melts, at this spot in Roncesvalles Village.


Mugshot Tavern
8

Mugshot Tavern

Customers' love of beer, quality eats and warm hospitality is matched by the team's at this easy High Park pub. Food veers from the strictly British canon to include Southern-inspired staples, like deep-fried pickles, fried chicken and Cajun-spiced trout.

Hair of the Dog
9

Hair of the Dog

For beer buffs and those more open to martinis, this pub in the Church Wellesley Village is a wise choice. A multi-floored space with two patios, this once works — for tête-à-têtes spent savouring chicken pot pie, or for large groups cluttering up the table with a hodgepodge of the kitchen's best, from nachos and poutine to burgers and butter chicken.

Lead photo by

Hector Vasquez at House on Parliament. Additional photos by Queen and BeaverThe Local.


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The Best Pubs in Toronto

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