Planning a night out has never been easier. Bloor-Yorkville is home to some of the best bars, wine bars, and pubs in the city, from casual rooftops to intimate wine bars, or more extravagant spaces, there’s a go-to option for every preference. If a memorable experience is what you’re looking for, a Bloor-Yorkville bar hop should top your list of social outings. Plus, once the warmer nights hit, you can find the best patios in Toronto here.
Best Bars in Bloor-Yorkville for Your Upcoming Bar Hop
JLo on your mind? If you want to lounge where the queen of TIFF 2019 celebrated, Sofia can make your dreams come true. The interior design is a reason to visit on its own, featuring artwork from Banksy, Basquiat, Dine, Mr. Brainwash and Andy Warhol. Located next to Tagliatella Galleries, the artwork found on the walls of Sofia are constantly refreshed with pieces available next door at the gallery.
Aside from the aesthetic experience and the lingering glamour of JLo, Sofia offers Happy Hour Monday-Friday! From 5 pm – 8 pm you can enjoy half-price cocktails and select wine, at both the bar and courtyard patio.
99 Yorkville Avenue
Tucked into Old York Lane, in the previous Amber space, Middle 8 is the latest offering from Andrew Carter of The Oxley. Designed to be a live music venue as well as an after work gathering space, Middle 8 has a distinct speak-easy feel to it.
The decor features leather, mirrors, wood, and handcrafted furniture, creating the feel of a true intimate cocktail bar. The food menu is designed for snacking and sharing, featuring charcuterie and fresh seasonal dishes. Be sure to check their website for their weekly live music schedule.
119 Yorkville Avenue
Set in a gorgeous Yorkville Avenue townhouse, The Oxley is an inviting environment reminiscent of a welcoming British home. With plenty of space inside, as well as two patios and a bar area, you can choose between more secluded environments or those overlooking the streets of Bloor-Yorkville.
Priding themselves on an extensive beer and wine list, The Oxley also offers a well-curated list of house cocktails and, of course, traditional British dishes.
121 Yorkville Avenue
Tucked along a quintessential Bloor-Yorkville alleyway is the somewhat fabled Alobar Yorkville. One of three “Alo-sister,” restaurants, Alobar offers a variety of ways to unwind: the lounge area, open dining room, traditional bar for walk-ins, or the outside terrace seating, which is surrounded by lush greenery and overhead fairytale lights.
Not only does Alobar offer curated wine lists and cocktails, but also an exquisite menu created by renowned chef, Patrick Kriss. Plates are designed to share and also include a variety of deserts. Alobar was recently awarded 1 Michelin Star.
Thursday to Saturday Alobar offers extended cocktail and wine hours from 4:30 pm – midnight.
57a 162 Cumberland Street
An institution in itself, The Pilot has been a Bloor-Yorkville staple for over 75 years! It’s a multi-level venue with a genuinely relaxed atmosphere, creating a welcome escape from the outside world. The rooftop, otherwise known as The Flight Deck, is open March to December and features a full food and drink menu. With space for 185 people, The Flight Deck is perfect for larger groups
There’s also the main-floor bar which hosts live jazz every Saturday from 2:30 pm – 5:30 pm. This space has a lot of history and a friendly atmosphere, making it a repeat choice among locals.
22 Cumberland St
Writers Room Bar, Park Hyatt Toronto
This one is for the cocktail lovers! The recently redesigned Park Hyatt Toronto is exquisite in both its design and the quality of its food and drink. The Writers Room Bar, located on the 17th floor, features stunning views of the city skyline and a gorgeous rooftop for the warmer months. With an emphasis on “reimagined classics,” the cocktails are a modern interpretation, while featuring classic and approachable flavor profiles.
Designed to pair effortlessly with the food menu, guests can browse a selection of share plates and desserts.
4 Avenue Road
The velvet couches and plush oversized lounge chairs make d|bar at the Four Seasons immediately feel like home (a very well decorated home). The comfort level makes d|bar a great end-of-evening stop, but the cheese boards and charcuterie also make the case for a great starting point.
Led by Melissa Hart, the cocktails at d|bar are a fusion of her culinary background and passion for mixology. The ingredients in the craft cocktails are focussed on seasonal, high-quality offerings.
For anyone wanting to fend off the Sunday Scaries, stop by on Sunday’s from 9 pm – close for a live DJ night.
60 Yorkville Avenue
Another Bloor-Yorkville classic, Hemingway’s has been at home in Bloor-Yorkville for over 40 years! The space features three bars, restaurant seating, and four patios (including heated, covered patios during the winter), along with daily specials and 24 draught beers on tap!
Complete with screens for game nights and a variety of weekly events, Hemingways is a gateway to community engagement. Events include Silent Disco Night, Themed Trivia, Live Music, and both local and international sports nights. Whatever night of the week you choose, it’s certainly a must-visit for a well-executed bar hop.
142 Cumberland Street
The One Eighty – Currently closed for renovations
If views (perhaps of the 180-degree variety) are on your priority list, The One Eighty is a must-visit. Located on the 51st floor of the Manulife Centre, The One Eighty offers an incredible view of the city, an extensive seasonal cocktail menu, signature cocktails, wine lists, and bottle service options.
The space features 21-foot ceilings, contemporary furniture, and north and south-facing patios with seamless glass panels. The unobstructed views are the perfect backdrop to a glamorous night out.
Manulife Centre, 55 Bloor Street West, 51st Floor