The Cosmo is dead. The Appletini has bitten the worm. The age of the classic cocktail has returned. Manhattans. Negronis. Campari, Pernod, Fernet Branca. These old friends have returned. And thank God for it.
None have heralded this return more so than Toronto restaurateur and activist Jen Agg, whose little universe on Dundas West centred around her showpiece restaurant, The Black Hoof (affectionately known as "Hoofland"). Other stars in this constellation include Rhum Corner next door, a Haitian food paradise, and the cocktail bar across the street, known simply as, Cocktail Bar.
Its plain name belies the complex and masterfully crafted cocktails that are served within. These are indeed among the best, if not the best, drinks in town. With whimsical names and inventive descriptions, there is a cocktail on the menu for absolutely everyone. Sweet, sour, boozy and light; the expert bartenders will work with you to find something to suit your palate. I personally love anything with gin and touches like lavender and elderflower.
The place itself is crafted like a jewel-box, with a copper plate roof and dim lighting that shimmers on the bar. It is cozy and intimate, seating only about 30-40 (more with the patio), but this only adds to its exclusive allure. The crowd it draws are an eclectic mix- flirty couples on romantic nights out, trendy bearded hipsters and girls dressed head to toe in chic black. The tie that binds is the love of a good drink. Cocktail Bar draws them all in.
Find your way with 145 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
The store offers containers for specialty recycling which would otherwise be tossed in the trash, and they even help with the hosting of recycling events.
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"Allan Gardens Conservatory", strangely advertised as a major Toronto landmark, remains a well-kept secret. Have a picnic in 100s of flowers and old trees!
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Throughout the experience, you’ll visit several different rooms, each with its own focus on threats to our precious planet, such as electronic waste.
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A couple of great finds I’ve gotten from this store are Braiding Sweetgrass, my favourite book of all time and The Intersectional Environmentalist...
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From beautiful jewelry to handmade or vintage home decor, amazing artwork, and candles scented with classic Canadian smells, it’s a gift-givers heaven!
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Each visit to The Latest Scoop is a like a little treasure hunt, with regularly updated inventory to keep up with the latest trends.
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Somewhat tucked away in the Annex neighbourhood of Toronto, this sweet shop welcomes you with a selection of locally made baked goods you can take to-go.
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There is so much to see in this stunning space, and they have such a wide selection, you could spend hours inside and still not see it all!
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Their guiding principles are rooted in the slow fashion movement of quality over quantity, meaning sustainably and ethically produced pieces!
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I’ve bought plenty here from a beautiful, sustainably-made beach towel to a gorgeous gold-dipped necklace - both were gifts for myself!
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"Broadview Espresso" in Toronto makes cappuccino just the way I like it -- almost scalding hot! I love sitting at the patio in the wooden seats...
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