What are you doing this weekend? Still not sure? Let’s sneak around a bit. No one can deny that when it comes to the Toronto bar scene, this city knows what it’s doing. But what about the more underground places? If you’re sick of the crowds at the mainstream locations and want a little exclusive getaway, check out some of the city’s best-kept secrets. Oh yeah baby, we’re talking the hidden bars and speakeasies of Toronto. A night out’s more fun when you have to find your way, isn’t it?

Here are 8 of the best hidden bars and speakeasies in Toronto.

MAHJONG BAR

 

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Disguised behind a storefront, this hidden spot is one you won’t want to miss. It has a laid back vibe and all the Asian-style tapas you could dream of. We also want that palm tree wallpaper for our own home, but that’s another topic.

Where: 1276 Dundas St W

THE GIFT SHOP

 

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This next pick is a cocktail den and lounge hidden behind a barbershop. It’s the perfect place try out some of their wild cocktails! And hey, maybe after a few you’ll have the liquid courage to make the big hair change you’ve been daydreaming about.

Where: 88 Ossington Ave

THE CLOAK BAR

 

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This secret spot has all the mystery and allure the name suggests. What’s hiding behind the cloak? A speakeasy bar serving bespoke cocktails in a timeless atmosphere. This place has a cool and classy feel and the interior is truly jaw-dropping. If you get hungry, the Marben kitchen serves delicious share plates and late-night bites.

Where: 488 Wellington St W

HUSH HUSH BAR


This hidden spot is such a secret, it’s right there in the name! Hush Hush Bar was once a speakeasy disguised as a convenience store but has since evolved into a dive club and moved to a larger space on College St, hosting live concerts, burlesque shows, and brunch day parties.

The place is a nod to the area’s historic prohibition with vintage decor and old-school classics on the menu.

Where: 423 College St

à toi

 

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Can you keep a secret? This spot is concealed inside Coffee Oysters Champagne on King St West. The vibe is roaring twenties meets modern age, with an extensive cocktail list and an atmosphere to make you feel like you’re somewhere in Paris. Be sure to ask about the chilling and romantic true story behind the bar’s name. And you’ll want to wear your best outfit for the photo ops.

Where: 214 King St W

THE VATICAN GIFT SHOP

We know you spend most of your of Saturday nights shopping for religious goods, so this place isn’t too far of a stretch. Hidden behind a religious merch store, this speakeasy has that dimly-lit vibe you’ve been looking for. Also, they have live music and DJ nights. Weird mix of vibes, but we dig it!

Where: 1047 Gerrard St E

CRY BABY GALLERY

 

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This secret New York-style cocktail bar is hidden behind an art gallery, easily making it one of the coolest hidden bars in the city. The bar serves up unique drinks like kombucha-infused cocktails, paired with simple but delicious bites like olives and oysters. Once you’ve treated yourself to a drink (or several) from the bar, you can peruse through the art exhibit like the classy person you are.

LOPAN BAR

 

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Located above DaiLo in Little Italy is the vibey neon-lit LoPan Bar, serving up snacks, cocktails, and tunes late into the night. This spot is locally famous for its Big Mac Bao, and honestly, need we say more? If the red lights are on in the stairwell, that means the party’s still going, so head on up and get ready to have a good time!

Where: 503 College St, Upper Floor

So, which of these incredible speakeasies in Toronto will you be hitting up? Don’t know about you, but we’ll be hopping from one to the other every weekend from here on out.

Curiocity Staff

With a curated slate of what matters in your city, Curiocity presents you with the most relevant local food, experiences, news, deals, and adventures. We help you get the most out of your city and focus on the easy-to-miss details so that you’re always in the know.
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