The Ultimate Guide to Queen West Pubs (No Fancy Lingo, Just Good Vibes)
Queen West isn’t just a neighborhood—it’s a vibe. A vibe where you can sip a craft beer, argue about Raptors’ chances for the 7th time, and still feel like you’ve made it. But let’s be real: finding the best pub in this area is like trying to pick the best meme of all time. Subjective, chaotic, and way too fun to ignore. This guide is your cheat code.
1. The Drake Hotel: Where Celebs and Craft Beers Collide
237 Bloor St W
Okay, yes, it’s technically a hotel, but the bar here is so iconic it deserves a top spot. The Drake Hotel’s bar is where you go when you want to feel like you’re in a movie and not just another Toronto pub. Their craft beer selection is top-tier, and if you’re lucky, you might spot someone who’s actually famous. (Or just someone who looked up “how to act famous” on Google.)
- Beer Highlight: Local brews on tap from Toronto’s finest microbreweries.
- Pro Tip: Arrive early if you want a seat. Or embrace the chaos and stand with your drink like a Toronto local.
2. The Earl: A Pub That Knows It’s Cool
1150 Queen St W
The Earl is the type of place that probably has a Spotify playlist named “I’m Not Pretentious, I’m Curated.” It’s a bit of a scene, but in the best way. This pub is perfect for when you want to sip a beer while debating the merits of craft vs. commercial brews with strangers who somehow become your new best friends.
- Beer Highlight: Rotating taps with a focus on local Ontario breweries.
- Pro Tip: Try their “Earl Special” if you want to show off your pub knowledge. Not everyone knows it exists.
3. The Drake Underground: Because You Can’t Be Too Cool for This
1150 Queen St W
If you’ve ever wondered what a pub would look like if it had a full-time therapist, this is it. Hidden beneath the Drake Hotel, The Drake Underground is all about the vibe. Low lighting, a curated cocktail menu, and a beer list that makes you feel like you’re on a date with your own sophistication.
- Beer Highlight: Craft lagers and IPAs that hit harder than a Drake diss track.
- Pro Tip: Go during happy hour if you want to feel like you’re doing something “smart” with your money.
4. The Hoxton: Where You Pretend You’re in London
125 Queen St W
The Hoxton is the pub for when you’re trying to forget you’re in Toronto. With its retro-chic vibe and an impressive array of British ales, it’s like a mini vacation without the flight. Plus, the servers are so polite, they’ll probably ask if you want another beer even if you’re clearly done.
- Beer Highlight: A mix of British imports and local craft beers that make you feel cultured.
- Pro Tip: Check out their trivia nights if you want to impress someone—or yourself—with your pub quiz skills.
5. The Beavertail: A Canadian Pub Classic
120 Queen St W
If you’re looking for a pub that’s equal parts “I’m here for the beer” and “I’m here to look like I’m here for the beer,” The Beavertail is your spot. It’s a classic Toronto institution that’s been around long enough to remember when Queen West was just a bunch of art galleries pretending to be cafes.
- Beer Highlight: A solid selection of domestics and imports, because sometimes you just want a good old-fashioned pilsner.
- Pro Tip: Avoid the weekend if you hate waiting in line. Or embrace the wait and strike up a conversation with someone who’s clearly on their third beer.
6. The Drake Hotel Rooftop: High-End Vibes, Low-End Price
237 Bloor St W
Okay, technically this is the same hotel as earlier, but the rooftop bar deserves its own section. It’s the kind of place where you can sip a beer while pretending you’re a Toronto elite. The skyline view is great, and the beer is good enough to justify the $15 you paid for one pint.
- Beer Highlight: Gourmet beer pairings with small plates that make you feel like a foodie.
- Pro Tip: Go on a weekday to avoid the “I’m here for the view, not the beer” crowd.
7. The Earl on Queen: The Original Queen West Hipster Hangout
1150 Queen St W
If The Earl is the cool kid in the pub world, The Earl on Queen is the OG. This place has been around long enough to know that Queen West is a vibe, not a trend. It’s the perfect spot for when you want to sip a beer while pretending you’re in a music video.
- Beer Highlight: A mix of local and international brews that make you feel like a global citizen.
- Pro Tip: Ask for the “Queen Special” if you want to feel like you’re in on the secret.
8. The Drake Underground Annex: Because One Underground Pub Wasn’t Enough
1150 Queen St W
Yes, there are two Drake Undergrounds. Yes, they’re both worth visiting. This annex is the sister pub that takes the vibe of the original and cranks it up to 11. It’s the kind of place where you can sip a beer while pretending you’re in a scene from “The Sopranos” but make it 2024.
- Beer Highlight: A focus on IPAs and stouts that hit harder than a Drake diss track.
- Pro Tip: Go during happy hour if you want to feel like you’re doing something “smart” with your money.
9. The Hoxton Annex: Where You Pretend You’re in London, Too
125 Queen St W
If you liked The Hoxton but wanted more of the same, this annex is your spot. It’s like the original but with slightly more hipster energy and a beer list that makes you feel like you’re on a date with your own sophistication.
- Beer Highlight: A mix of British imports and local craft beers that make you feel cultured.
- Pro Tip: Check out their trivia nights if you want to impress someone—or yourself—with your pub quiz skills.
10. The Beavertail Annex: A Canadian Pub Classic, Too
120 Queen St W
Another annex, this time for The Beavertail. If you’re a fan of the original, you’ll love this one. It’s the same vibe, just with more room for people who’ve had one too many pints and are debating the merits of craft beer vs. domestics with strangers.
- Beer Highlight: A solid selection of domestics and imports, because sometimes you just want a good old-fashioned pilsner.
- Pro Tip: Avoid the weekend if you hate waiting in line. Or embrace the wait and strike up a conversation with someone who’s clearly on their third beer.
Why Queen West Pubs Are the Best (Short Answer: They Just Are)
Queen West pubs aren’t just places to drink—they’re cultural institutions. They’re where you find the best of Toronto’s beer scene, mixed with a side of local charm and a dash of pretentiousness. Whether you’re there for the beer, the ambiance, or just to feel like you’re in a movie, these pubs deliver.
Pro Tips for Navigating Queen West Pubs
- Reserve a Seat: If you’re visiting a popular spot like The Drake Hotel, book a table if you want to avoid standing like you’re at a concert.
- Ask for Recommendations: Bartenders here know their craft better than they know your life story. Ask for their favorite local brew.
- Try the Local Specials: Pubs like The Earl and The Hoxton have rotating taps that feature local breweries. Don’t miss out.
- Check for Events: Many pubs host trivia nights, live music, and other events that can elevate your pub experience from “meh” to “this is why I love Toronto.”
- Walk, Don’t Run: Queen West is best enjoyed at a leisurely pace. Take your time, sip your beer, and let the vibes hit you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What’s the best pub for a first date?
The Drake Hotel is a solid choice. It’s classy enough to impress but casual enough not to make things awkward if you flinch at the wrong moment.
2. Are there any pubs in Queen West that are pet-friendly?
Most pubs in Queen West are dog-friendly, but The Drake Hotel and The Hoxton are your best bets. Just make sure your pup isn’t a bouncer’s ex.
3. Can I find vegan or vegetarian food options at these pubs?
Yes! The Earl and The Drake Underground both have vegan-friendly small plates that make you feel like you’re eating healthy, even if you’re not.
4. What’s the best time to visit these pubs to avoid crowds?
Weekdays, particularly Tuesday and Wednesday, are your best bet. Avoid weekends unless you’re prepared for a crowd and a wait time longer than your ex’s texts.
5. Do these pubs have outdoor seating?
Most do! The Drake Hotel’s rooftop bar and The Hoxton’s patio are perfect for people-watching without the drama.
Final Thoughts: Queen West Pubs Are a Vibe, and You Should Join
Queen West pubs are more than just places to drink—they’re experiences. Whether you’re there for the beer, the ambiance, or just to feel like you’re in a movie, these pubs deliver. So next time you’re in the area, grab a pint, strike up a conversation with someone who looks like they know what they’re doing, and remember: You’re not just sipping beer. You’re sipping culture.
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