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Read MoreThe 8 Best Speakeasies in Toronto [2022]
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If you’re looking for a truly unique night out, then look no further than Toronto’s speakeasies. These hidden gems offer an intimate and exclusive experience that you won’t find at your average bar. Here we compiled a list of the 8 best speakeasies in Toronto for your next night out.
We chose these based on their atmosphere, service, reviews, and of course, their cocktails.
From hidden rooms to password-protected entrances, these establishments are sure to give you a night to remember. So if you’re ready to step back in time and experience the glamour of the speakeasy, then check out one of these eight great Toronto hotspots.
If you’re looking to explore more of Toronto’s nightlife, then be sure to check out our list of the best shisha lounges or the best live music bars in Toronto.
Summary
What are the Most Popular Cocktails at a Speakeasy?
If you’re new to the speakeasy scene, then you might be wondering what kind of cocktails they serve. While the menu varies from place to place, there are some classics that you’re likely to find on most menus. The most popular cocktails at a speakeasy include:
Old Fashioned: This classic drink is made with whiskey, bitters, sugar, and a cherry.
- Manhattan: Another classic, the Manhattan is made with whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters.
- Negroni: This Italian cocktail is made with gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth.
- Martini: This iconic drink is made with gin (or vodka), dry vermouth, and a dash of bitters.
The Top Speakeasies in Toronto
1. The Cloak Bar

The Cloak Bar is a one-of-a kind experience that you won’t want to miss. It’s a discreet and secret speakout bar. You can make a reservation for a Friday night or book the whole place for a special celebration. The staff there are incredible and will make sure your event runs smoothly from beginning until the very end!
Their cocktails are really amazing. You can start with Carmen Miranda which is fruity and floral with a spark of acidity and spice, made on tequila and bergamot marmalade. You can enjoy your drink with some Quinoa Tots which are made of caramelized onion, verjus aioli, kanzuri sambal, and thunder mountain peppers.
So if you’re looking for an unforgettable experience, be sure to check out the Cloak Bar!
Business Information:
thecloakbar.com
+14167107697
488 Wellington St W, Toronto, ON M5V 1E9, Canada
Customer Review Highlight:
Pros
- Great atmosphere
- Serves craft cocktails & elevated bar snacks
Cons
- Closed Sundays - Tuesdays
2. Gift Shop

You walk into their bar, through the door with a green lightbox and you’ll find yourself in an environment full of strange flavours. At its helm is H- who only wants to please those around him by making unique cocktails that will be remembered for quite some time!
This is the perfect spot to go if you’re looking for an intimate date night. The cocktails are delicious and they have an amazing “Welcome back” drink! It’s not meant for big groups because of how small it feels like inside but definitely worth checking out nonetheless.
So come on over here if you’re thirsty because this place has got what it takes to make your evening remarkable.
Business Information:
donnellygroup.ca
+14165465432
89-B Ossington Ave, Toronto, ON M6J 2Z2, Canada
Customer Review Highlight:
Pros
- Intimate space with a retro feel
- The drinks are always original and phenomenal,
Cons
- Sometimes hard to reach
3. Civil Liberties

Civil is a place where you can come to meet your friends, old and new. You’ll find them over a great atmosphere with unpretentious service and the drinks that will match your tales. Join in on this exploration by checking out what Civil has going inside its bar as well as recipes from some of today’s most exciting mixologists.
Their team of knowledgeable bartenders will ask you a few questions and help guide you to find a new favourite or forgotten classic. They also partner with a nearby Vietnamese restaurant and the food is incredible. You can match your cocktail with brisket croquettes, fried squid, vegan dumplings, and a cauliflower dish.
So come on in and explore the world of cocktails at Civil. Who knows, you might just discover your new favourite drink. Cheers!
Business Information:
civillibertiesbar.com
info@civillibertiesbar.com
+14165465634
878 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M6G 1M5, Canada
Customer Review Highlight:
Pros
- Serves snacks & Prohibition-era cocktails
- Relaxed ambient, trendy interior
Cons
- Sometimes the service can be slow
4. Northwood

Northwood is the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. This Little Italy gem is nestled in a cozy corner, making it the perfect spot for an intimate first date. The ambiance is chill and romantic, with great selections of cocktails that are sure to please everyone.
They were selected as the best bars and cocktails in Toronto for a reason. If you are a mezcal try their Red Velvet cocktail, you will be surprised how unique it tastes. They also have a nice selection of beers, wines and non-alcoholic alternatives.
So if you’re looking for a cute spot to get to know someone better, Northwood is definitely the place to go.
Business Information:
northwoodto.ca
northwoodTO@gmail.com
815 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M6G 1M1, Canada
Customer Review Highlight:
Pros
- Opens in the afternoon till late in the evening
- Snug cafe with patio
Cons
- Sometimes they are understaffed
5. Famous Last Words

Come to Famous Last Words for a boozy night out you won’t soon forget! They offer a range of unique cocktails that will suit any palate, from light and fruity elixirs like “The Mystery at Lilac Inn”, which is perfect if you’re looking for something easygoing.
If you’re feeling adventurous, don’t forget about their signature stirred and spirit-forward drinks. These sippers combine crowd-pleasing classics with some wild new twists! Try “City on Fire” which is smokey and complex with a very long finish based on scotch and ardbeg.
With an inviting, cozy atmosphere and a drink menu that reads like a book, Famous Last Words is the perfect place to explore something new.
Business Information:
famouslastwordsbar.com
marlene@famouslastwordsbar.com
+14167925200
392 Pacific Ave, Toronto, ON M6P 2R1, Canada
Customer Review Highlight:
Pros
- Unique menu
- Warm and cozy atmosphere
Cons
- Drinks can be pricey
6. Vatican Gift Shop

The Vatican Gift Shop is a great place to visit if you are looking for some authentic Italian food. The staff are very polite and the music here varies from the 80s to today’s, so you can even dance if that is your thing! You can try pizza for dinner which will taste delicious as well as authentic Italian rice meatballs.
The cozy setting of this speakout bar will definitely become your favourite place. They have a huge beer list with an extensive selection from homemade beverages to one of the world-famous ones. And with cocktails, they have a nice focus on Italian aperitifs, amaros, and liqueurs.
So if you are ever in the area, be sure to check out the Vatican Gift Shop!
Business Information:
instagram.com
info@vaticangiftshopto.com
+14164622682
1047 Gerrard St E, Toronto, ON M4M 1Z7, Canada
Customer Review Highlight:
Pros
- Mysterious atmosphere
- Great pizzas
Cons
- Closed Sundays - Tuesdays
7. Cry Baby Gallery

Cry Baby Gallery has quickly become one of the most popular bars in Toronto. Thanks to its unique atmosphere and delicious cocktails, it’s the perfect spot for a night out with friends. Whether you’re looking for an intimate drink or a party atmosphere, Cry Baby Gallery has something that will suit your needs.
The friendly staff are always happy to make recommendations and answer any questions about their delicious cocktails! Their specialty is spicy margaritas like the Mezcal, which is refreshing and fun to have.
You can also enjoy a beautiful outdoor patio on a hot summer day. If you’re looking for a great place to grab a drink, Cry Baby Gallery should be at the top of your list!
Business Information:
crybabygallery.ca
hello@crybabygallery.ca
1468 Dundas St W, Toronto, ON M6J 1Y6, Canada
Customer Review Highlight:
Pros
- Consistent operating hours
- Unique drinks at reasonable prices
Cons
- Don’t accept reservations
8. Mahjong Bar

Mahjong Bar is the perfect place to unwind after a long day. They have a great selection of drinks and the food menu is small but perfectly formed. The calamari is a real standout dish and it goes so well with any of the cocktails on offer.
The music at Mahjong Bar is always on point, providing the perfect background atmosphere for chatting and enjoying yourself. And speaking of cocktails, the Vanilla Sky is a must-try. It’s the perfect combination of cozy vanilla flavour and zingy citrus taste.
So if you’re looking for a place to relax with some delicious seafood, then Mahjong Bar is definitely worth checking out. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.
Business Information:
mahjongbar.com
info@mahjongbar.com
1276 Dundas St W, Toronto, ON M6J 1X7, Canada
Customer Review Highlight:
Pros
- Hip hangout spot
- Unique interior design
Cons
- Small space
FAQs About Speakeasies
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a speakeasy in Toronto, these are the 8 best ones to check out. They all have their own unique vibe and offer something different. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to relax or want to party until the early hours of the morning, there’s definitely a speakeasy on this list that will suit your needs.
So what are you waiting for? Start exploring and see which one is your new favourite!
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