Dora Keogh on the Danforth is unlike any other dance club in Toronto. First of all it’s not a club; it’s a pub with an authentic flair for the Eire. In fact, it’s been ranked as the #6 Irish Pub by the world’s longest-running Irish-interest magazine.
The room is narrow with a long bar flanking most of one side. Cocktails are on the menu, but the main fare is beer and wine. Nothing is overly expensive. Don’t arrive hungry.
For a local, the main attraction of “Dora’s” is a five-piece neighbourhood band that performs once a month. The Circumstantialists usually play the last Friday night, but best to check the website to be sure.
This is a big night out for the mostly +30-aged crowd and these folks are here to dance. Even if there’s no space to twist & shout, people can still be spotted head swaying, toe tapping and playing air guitar to the sounds of classic rock & roll sung by Mike Tanner, the lead singer.
The lights are kept on and most people jam around the small stage at the back to better see Mike belt out hits from The Temptations, CCR, Rod Stewart, Springsteen and The Stones. The atmosphere is like a fun, casual house party. Two side rooms at the front are available to anyone who wants to attempt a conversation using their best Irish lilt.
What’s Spot On:
• Guinness with a Jameson Whiskey chaser
• Band takes requests
