Every Wednesday is a List Day, in which I do some kind of beer-related list. Lists are good.
Since I run the Toronto Beer Lovers Group, I'm often asked by newcomers what my favorite beer bars are. And - these five below are typically always on the list, for the sheer awesomeness of their taps.
Listed in no particular order:
1. C'est What
67 Front Street East, Toronto. Closest TTC: King or Union.
The pros: A massive tap list, mostly local taps, fantastic food, live music, and an amazing beer tasting festival twice a year.
The cons: Pints aren't cheap, plus the basement location is a bit of a downer in summer.
2. Bar Volo
587 Yonge St, Toronto. Closest TTC: Wellesley.
The pros: Volo tends to carry at-least one or two beers that you just can't find anywhere else. Monday nights, the pints are slightly cheaper. Nice outdoor patio and good food.
The cons: Like C'est What - there are no cheap pints in this place.
3. Dora Keogh
141 Danforth Avenue, Toronto. Closest TTC: Broadview.
The pros: Fullers London Porter on tap, enough said. In my experience, by far the best Guinness pour in the city.
The cons: Loud music on weekends, and no place to take refuge, and no food to speak of.
4. Victory Cafe
581 Markham Street, Toronto. Closest TTC: Bathurst.
The pros: Again, an all-local, excellent tap list, plus Victory always carries a special cask. Twice a year, they do an amazing cask festival which is well-worth standing in line and going to. Very nice outdoor patio as well, and great food.
The cons: Victory Cafe is crowded, unfortunately. Patio seats are pretty hard to come by...
5. Sin & Redemption
136 McCaul St, Toronto. Closest TTC: St. Patrick
The pros: An extensive Belgian/Belgian-style beer list, with prices about $1 cheaper per pint than the Bier Markt.
The cons: I've found the overall experience here inconsistent. Some nights are great, others - just too crowded.
