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Toronto’s 10 Best Spots for Live Music
Toronto’s the place where beats and melodies fill the air and every night could lead to an unforgettable musical encounter. It’s a playground for audiophiles, with a vibrant tapestry of venues that cater to every whim and fancy.
So, let’s hit the streets of this dynamic city and uncover the top spots where live music isn’t just played—it’s felt. Get ready to tap your feet, sway with strangers, and let the live music of Toronto take you on a journey.
Get Well
Address: 1181 Dundas St W, Toronto, ON M6H 1Y3, Canada
Contact Details: +16473512337
Website: http://www.getwellbar.com/
Opening Hours: Daily 5 PM to 2 AM
Nestled in the heart of Toronto, Get Well bar is your go-to spot for a laid-back evening with a pint in hand. It’s like stepping into a friend’s living room—if your friend collected vintage arcade games and served a killer lineup of craft beers.
With a tap list that’s a love letter to local breweries and their own nano-brews to boot, you’re in for a real treat.
Swing by any time after 5 p.m. to catch the chill vibes. And hey, if you find yourself in the neighborhood a bit early, why not soak up some culture at the Art Gallery of Toronto or get lost in the wonders of the Royal Ontario Museum?
| Pro Tip: If you’re into a bit of friendly competition, challenge someone to a game on one of their retro pinball machines. It’s a great way to break the ice and work up a thirst for another round of their finest brews. |
The Piston
Address: 937 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M6H 1L4, Canada
Contact Details: N/A
Website: http://thepiston.ca/
Opening Hours: Sunday to Tuesday, closed; Wednesday 4 PM to 2 AM; Tuesday 8 PM to 2 AM; Friday to Saturday 10 PM to 2 AM
If you’re itching to bust a move to tunes from the golden oldies to the ’90s gems, The Piston is your jam. Picture this: one moment you’re grooving to a ’60s beat, the next you’re caught up in a ’90s music video—this Toronto hotspot has it all.
And when the dancing has you working up an appetite, slide into a cozy booth and treat yourself to some top-notch sandwiches and tapas. Now, keep in mind, The Piston’s doors swing open just for the Friday and Saturday night revelers at 10 p.m., so it’s always buzzing with energy.
Thinking of throwing a bash? You’re in luck because they offer private bookings during the week. And don’t worry about the trek—Ossington Subway Station is just a hop, skip, and a jump away.
| Pro Tip: Get there a bit early to snag a booth—it’s the perfect spot to gather your crew, share some bites, and plan your dance floor domination. And if you’re rolling solo, those booths are prime real estate for making new friends. |
C’est What
Address: 67 Front St E, Toronto, ON M5E 1B5, Canada
Contact Details: +14168679499
Website: http://www.cestwhat.com/
Opening Hours: Daily 12 Pm to 12 AM
If you’re all about that hoppy life, C’est What has got you covered with a dizzying selection of over 40 taps pouring local brews and international favorites.
Whiskey aficionados, fear not—there’s a dedicated bar just for you. And for those who fancy a splash of color in their glass, the cocktail lineup is sure to delight.
When hunger strikes, dive into a menu brimming with hearty wraps and juicy burgers that’ll make your taste buds sing.
Swing by at noon for a chill vibe where you can conquer board games or enjoy a peaceful meal. But hey, if you’re in the mood for a buzz, aim to land a spot by 7 p.m. on the weekend.
| Pro Tip: Fridays and Saturdays are prime time, so if you’re planning to join us then, a little birdie told us that arriving just before the evening rush is the sweet spot for snagging the best table in the house. |
Bar Raval
Address: 505 College St, Toronto, ON M6J 2J3, Canada
Contact Details: N/A
Website: http://www.thisisbarraval.com/
Opening Hours: Daily 11 AM to 1 AM
Step into Bar Raval and you’re instantly whisked away to the heart of Barcelona, with its sinuous woodwork and an open-air feel that’s pure Gaudi.
Here, the cocktails are as artful as the decor, and the tapas are a slice of Spanish heaven. It’s a hit with the university crowd, thanks to its proximity to the University of Toronto, and it’s the perfect spot to kick back and soak up some local vibes.
To get to Bar Raval, hop on a bus to the Bathurst St at College St stop. From there, it’s just a hop, skip, and jump to your Barcelona hideaway.
| Pro Tip: If you’re swinging by, try to time your visit with the student schedule (Fridays and Saturdays). Post-lectures, the place buzzes with energy, making it the perfect time to dive into the bustling scene. And remember, our secret to snagging the best spot is to come a tad early—right when the sun starts to dip is when Bar Raval really shines. |
Comedy Bar
Address: 945 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M6H 1L5, Canada
Contact Details: +14165516540
Website: http://www.comedybar.ca/
Opening Hours: Daily 6 PM to 2 AM
The Comedy Bar may be compact, but it’s a comedy powerhouse, showcasing over 150 fresh and funny improv and stand-up acts monthly. Fancy trying your hand at comedy? They’ve got workshops and classes that’ll have you cracking jokes like a pro.
And when it comes to drinks, they’ve got a hearty lineup of local brews and global spirits to tickle your fancy.
Now, you might be wondering how this is a live music bar (sports bar toronto) if it’s only for those who want primetime comedy night. Well, here’s the kicker. Some comedians have musical acts that portray both funny and musical scenes — so you should check it out regardless!
| Pro Tip: Reserve your spot ahead of time to secure your seat at the comedy feast. And don’t rush off when the curtain falls—stick around, and you might just share a pint and a chuckle with the night’s stars. |
Coda
Address: 794 Bathurst St, Toronto, ON M5R 3G1, Canada
Contact Details: +14165360346
Website: http://www.codatoronto.com/
Opening Hours: Every night 8 PM to 5 AM
Coda swings open its doors beneath the bustling streets, standing on the legendary grounds of the old Footwork club. This subterranean haunt is a mecca for electronic beats, but don’t be surprised to find a medley of punk, R&B, and more pulsing through its walls.
This hotspot comes to life on Fridays and Saturdays starting at 9 p.m. To sidestep the sidewalk shuffle of eager music (voice lessons edmonton) fans, snag your ticket ahead of time or show up early.
And if you’re wondering about the commute, Bathurst subway station is a stone’s throw away—just a quick 60-meter jaunt across the street.
| Pro Tip: Keep an eye on their lineup announcements—Coda is known for surprise sets from big names, and those nights are pure gold. Trust us, you’ll want to be part of that crowd. |
Lost and Found
Address: 577 King St W, Toronto, ON M5V 1M1, Canada
Contact Details: +16479955772
Website: http://lost577.com/
Opening Hours: Friday, Saturday, and Monday only 11 PM to 3 AM
Lost and Found is an intimate and upscale club that is a bit of a splurge, but it’s the place to be if you’re hoping to rub elbows with the who’s who—after all, it’s cool enough to get a shoutout in a track by The Weeknd.
Securing a spot at Lost and Found is a bit like finding the golden ticket—it’s exclusive, and even with a reservation, there’s an air of mystery about who makes it past the velvet rope. The DJs can get pretty wild here with the music, and there are even indie rock bands that party till the sun comes up!
To up your odds on the best nights with the best artists, punctuality is key, and a peek at the bottle service menu might just sway the odds in your favor. Dress to impress here; ‘upscale chic’ is the name of the game.
| Pro Tip: For a smoother experience, try visiting on a weeknight when it’s less crowded—you’ll get more of the vibe without the weekend rush. And who knows? You might just have that celebrity encounter in a more relaxed setting. |
El Convento Rico
Address: 750 College St, Toronto, ON M6G 1C4, Canada
Contact Details: +14165887800
Website: https://www.elconventorico.com/
Opening Hours: Monday to Thursday, closed; Friday to Saturday 9 PM to 3 AM; Sunday 10 PM to 3:30 AM
El Convento Rico has been a vibrant sanctuary for the LGBTQ+ community since its doors first swung open in 1992.
It’s a place where the weekend comes alive with glittering drag shows that capture the spirit of the city. The beats of Top 40 hits and sultry Latin rhythms spun by live DJs keep the energy high.
The drink selection here is as colorful as the performances, featuring a mix of local and international beers, creative martinis, and signature cocktails. And for those planning to dance the night away, splurging on bottle service is a fabulous option.
| Pro Tip: If you’re looking to snag the best spot for the drag shows, make sure to arrive early. And for a more intimate experience, consider booking a table—it’s the perfect way to ensure you and your crew have a home base for the evening’s festivities. |
Track & Field
Address: 582 College St, Toronto, ON M6G 1B3, Canada
Contact Details: N/A
Website: http://trackandfieldbar.com/
Opening Hours: Sunday to Tuesday, closed; Wednesday to Saturday 5 PM to 2 AM
If you’re up for a blend of leisure and competition, Track & Field Bar is a go-to spot in Toronto. This place is a haven for lawn game and retro music enthusiasts, offering a quirky mix of shuffleboard, bocce, and the homegrown favorite, crokinole.
It’s a cozy hangout with two levels of fun, featuring a sprawling 30-foot bar and a comfy lounge area to kick back in. Not to mention— retro disco music that is great for up-to-beat dance moves with your friends!
The taps at Track & Field pour a variety of craft beers, and the house cocktails are both inventive and easy on the wallet. And when the munchies hit, you’re in luck—the bar teams up with the culinary wizards at Fidel Gastro’s Street Food Company to bring you some seriously tasty snacks.
| Pro Tip: If you’re swinging by with your pals, consider booking a lane in advance, especially on weekends. It’s the best way to guarantee your group gets in on the lawn game action without the wait. Plus, it gives us all a chance to show off our competitive streaks in style! |
Good Fortune Bar
Address: 130 Eglinton Avenue East Lower-Level, 130 Eglinton Ave E Main Floor, Toronto, ON M4P 2X9, Canada
Contact Details: +16473510130
Website: http://www.goodfortunebar.com/
Opening Hours: Friday and Saturday 8 PM and 2 AM; Sunday to Thursday, closed
For our final jaunt into Toronto’s vibrant nightlife and live music spots, let’s descend into the retro-cool depths of Good Fortune Bar.
This basement hideaway is a blast from the past, with its neon glow and 80s Miami aesthetic. It’s the perfect place to wrap up our tour, offering a colorful backdrop for those last memorable moments.
Here, you can nestle into a cozy booth or claim a high-top table as your own. The cocktail list is a playful parade of flavors, each one a tribute to the excess and excitement of the era. As the night progresses, the energy here pulses higher, with a soundtrack to match the lively scene.
| Pro Tip: Remember, to secure your spot in this popular haunt, especially on a bustling weekend, it’s wise to book ahead. It’s our final recommendation, but it’s a golden one: ensure your evening is smooth sailing by planning ahead. |
