

1
The Madison Avenue Pub

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The Madison Avenue Pub is one of Toronto’s most famous student and social pubs, located near the University of Toronto’s St. George campus.
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It is known for its multi-level Victorian-style house, lively atmosphere, patios, and affordable drinks.
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The pub is especially popular with university students, sports fans, and large groups looking for a casual night out.
Location
14 Madison Avenue, Toronto (The Annex / University of Toronto area)
Getting There
Take the TTC to Spadina Station (Line 1 or Line 2) and walk south on Spadina Road to Madison Avenue. The pub is also a short walk from St. George Station.
2. The Rivoli
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The Rivoli is a historic Queen Street West bar, restaurant, and live entertainment venue that has been part of Toronto’s cultural scene for decades.
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It features a classic pool hall, stylish bar area, and a stage hosting comedy, music, and special events.
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Its central downtown location makes it a popular destination for locals, visitors, and nightlife enthusiasts.
Location
332 Queen Street West, Toronto (Queen West)
Directions
Take the TTC to Osgoode Station (Line 1) and walk west along Queen Street West for about 10 minutes. You can also take the 501 Queen streetcar and exit near John Street.



3. The Annex Social

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The Annex Social is a modern neighbourhood bar located in Toronto’s vibrant Annex district.
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It offers craft cocktails, local beers, shareable food, and a welcoming atmosphere for casual gatherings.
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The venue is popular with students, young professionals, and residents looking for a relaxed social space.
Location
731 Bathurst Street, Toronto (The Annex)
Getting There
Take the TTC to Bathurst Station (Line 2) and walk south on Bathurst Street for approximately 5 minutes.
4. Johnny G’s Café
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Johnny G’s Café is a cozy café and casual restaurant in the Annex known for its friendly service and relaxed neighbourhood vibe.
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It offers breakfast, brunch, coffee, and comfort food in a welcoming setting.
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The café is a favourite among students, locals, and visitors exploring the Bloor Street area.
Location
478 Huron Street, Toronto (The Annex)
Directions
Take the TTC to Spadina Station (Line 1 or Line 2) and walk north along Spadina Road. It is located near Huron Street, just east of the University of Toronto campus.




5. The Emmet Ray

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The Emmet Ray is an intimate cocktail bar and live music venue known for its creative drinks, vintage atmosphere, and jazz performances.
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The bar has a relaxed artistic character and often features local musicians and performers.
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It attracts musicians, creatives, and neighbourhood regulars looking for a unique evening experience.
Location
924 College Street, Toronto (Bloordale / Dufferin Grove area)
Getting There
Take the TTC to Dufferin Station (Line 2) and take the 505 Dundas streetcar or walk south to College Street. The venue is near College Street and Dufferin Avenue.

6. The Rex Jazz & Blues Bar
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The Rex is one of Toronto’s most iconic jazz venues and has been a cornerstone of the city’s music scene for decades.
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It features live jazz performances almost every night, along with classic pub food and drinks.
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The intimate atmosphere makes it a favourite destination for jazz lovers, musicians, and visitors.
Location
194 Queen Street West, Toronto (Downtown / Queen West)
Getting There
Take the TTC to Osgoode Station (Line 1) and walk west on Queen Street West for 2 minutes. The venue is directly across from the Four Seasons Centre.



7. Poetry Jazz Café

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Poetry Jazz Café is an intimate underground venue known for live jazz, blues, and soul performances.
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The cozy setting, creative cocktails, and close connection between performers and audiences create a unique experience.
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It is a favourite for those seeking authentic small-club jazz in downtown Toronto.
Location
224 Richmond Street West, Toronto (Entertainment District)
Getting There
Take the TTC to Osgoode Station and walk east along Richmond Street West for about 5 minutes.
8. The Jazz Bistro
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The Jazz Bistro is an upscale jazz restaurant and performance venue located near Toronto’s historic St. Lawrence Market district.
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It features nightly live jazz performances, elegant dining, and a sophisticated atmosphere.
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The venue attracts local musicians and internationally recognized performers.
Location
251 Victoria Street, Toronto (St. Lawrence Market / Downtown)
Directions
Take the TTC to King Station (Line 1) and walk east along King Street to Victoria Street. It is about a 5-minute walk from the station.



9. Reservoir Lounge

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Reservoir Lounge is a stylish jazz and cocktail lounge inspired by the glamour of the 1940s swing era.
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It features live jazz, swing, and blues performances in a vintage atmosphere.
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It is a popular destination for date nights, celebrations, and visitors seeking a classic lounge experience.
Location
52 Wellington Street East, Toronto (St. Lawrence Market)
Getting There
Take the TTC to King Station and walk south toward Wellington Street East. The venue is near Church Street and Wellington Street.

10. Home Smith Bar (Old Mill Toronto)
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The Home Smith Bar offers an elegant jazz lounge experience in the historic Old Mill Toronto setting.
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It features live jazz performances, cocktails, and upscale pub-inspired dining.
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The riverside location provides a relaxed atmosphere away from downtown’s busy streets.
Location
21 Old Mill Road, Toronto (Etobicoke / Humber Valley)
Directions
Take the TTC to Old Mill Station (Line 2). The venue is directly beside the station near the Humber River.


