Toronto has a new nightlife lounge hidden inside a century-old substation

A new intimate lounge has opened in downtown Toronto, but you might not expect to find it behind the doors of a century-old former electrical substation.

Located inside a heritage building, Discreta positions itself as an alternative to the typical King Street establishment. It homes in on the idea that hospitality doesn’t have to be louder, bigger, or more crowded to be memorable.

Rather than packing as many people into the room as possible, the new venue is centred on a more intimate night out, with cocktails, music, service and atmosphere all playing a role in the experience.

With DJs and curated programming setting the mood, the idea is to make the evening feel less like a traditional nightclub and more like a deliberately designed social space.

“Discreta was created from a belief that Toronto’s hospitality scene still has room to evolve,” shared Joseph Alidu, owner of Discreta.

“We wanted to build something with identity — a space that respects the character of the building while introducing a more intimate, elevated approach to hospitality. For us, Discreta isn’t simply about opening another venue; it’s about creating something that can become part of the city’s culture.”

Part of Discreta’s identity comes from the building itself.

Historical significance and design

Per the City of Toronto, the Portland Substation was completed in 1925 as a two-storey, factory/warehouse type structure. It was designed by the public utility’s in-house architect Albert E. Salisbury and “is part of a collection of more than twenty such substations by the architect built across the city between 1921 and 1950.”

It was designed in the Beaux-Arts tradition with Edwardian Classical influences, according to the city report.

“Identified by a prominent metal entablature and sign band upon its principal (east) elevation which reads, ‘TORONTO HYDRO-ELECTRIC SYSTEM,’ the former substation is further defined by its symmetrical façade, red-brick exterior, factory-type windows, and a flat roof with parapets capped with terracotta coping,” it adds.

“In close proximity to other early 20th-century factory/warehouse type buildings, including several listed and Part IV designated properties, the Portland Substation is an important part of the industrial history of the King-Spadina neighbourhood.”

Without losing the building’s historic industrial character, Discreta embraced its exterior, leaning into its somewhat mysterious facade.

That understated exterior adds to the intrigue for passersby. In the morning, you’d be none the wiser, but as the sun starts to set and the streets are filled with partygoers, the red carpet comes out, and Discreta is ready for business.

Interior space

Indoors, guests will notice the contemporary interior defined by dramatic lighting, high ceilings, rich finishes, and a striking illuminated onyx bar.

The result is a room designed to feel sophisticated without being conventional and exclusive without feeling manufactured, according to the team.

The menu continues that approach, with a cocktail program focused on premium spirits alongside a selection of food.

“For me, true hospitality is the ability to anticipate what a guest needs before they ever have to ask,” shared Ian Manu, director of operations at Discreta.

“At Discreta, every touchpoint has been considered. From the way a guest is welcomed and the attention they receive throughout the evening, to the music, lighting, cocktails and service surrounding them. Luxury isn’t about excess; it’s about precision, discretion and making every guest feel as though the experience was designed specifically for them.”

If you’re looking for a night out that’s different than your usual Friday night, you know where to go.

Discreta is located at 18 Portland St.

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