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El Rey Mezcal Bar

3.6 (85 reviews)
Closed 12:00 pm - 12:00 am (Next day)

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EL REY MEZCAL BAR ATMOSPHERE

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Pretty pimpin and rey paloma!
Norma S.

Great drinks. Fun atmosphere. Def a place to stop. Fish tacos. Yum yum. Good music. Come hingry. And with one or many friends.

a hand holding a tall glass with a drink in it
Michelle W.

First time here and saw good reviews. In kensington , so pretty busy area. Very limited inside seating , however they do have a patio that is not covered (have an umbrella above some benches). Although there was no line up it took awhile before someone came to sit us down... looked like they were understaffed and that was a little annoying. However otherwise my friend and i came for drinks and their cocktails are delicious and unique. Their ig page also shows what specials they have during the day. The inside decor is nice as well. Overall cool vibes. Didnt get a chance to try their food/snacks but if i do come by this place again i may give it another shot!

Crunchy squid tacos with coconuts
Maggie Y.

Unexpected find! Got to Kensington on a Monday night kinda late, 7:30pm. As the taco places we wanted to go to was closed or closing. So found this spot and grabbed takeout (lockdown 2.0)! Their tacos were amazing! So we're the drinks!! Can't wait to come back and sit on their patio and try out all the rest of their items!!

Birria tacos with consome, chicken tinga tacos, marinated cucumbers and open window cocktails
Jennifer T.

Staff was very friendly and the food and cocktail were delicious. I loved the birria taco with the consome. I wanted to drink the whole consome up because it was so delicious.

Birria Quesadillas
Reh L.

This is one of my go-to spots when I visit Kensington in the summer, so with the last few waning warm days upon us I had to get in some tacos last night. El Rey is a vibey place with a cozy interior, bustling patio, excellent taste in music (heavy Daniel Caesar, R&B and old school hip hop) as well as one of the best mezcal selections in Toronto and plenty of delicious cocktails. Here's a rundown of the meal: - Drinks: hard to go wrong with any of their signature cocktails, but be bold and try one of the mezcal ones, you won't regret it - Guac and Chips: always solid, they do theirs with a cashew pesto (except for this time as they graciously handled our table's cashew allergy) and some pico de gallo. I love their homemade chips, they're thicc and pack a good crunch - Al Pastor: a solid but unspectacular taco in my eyes, they do it well enough but it doesn't quite blow me away - Crispy Squid Tacos: the combo of tamarind + coconut I was skeptical about at first, but they played it really well and it turned out great - Birria Burritos: these are pretty hefty, packed with meat and served with sour cream and a spicy consomme flavoured (?) aioli. These are delicious and I loved the sauces, just take notice that these are not served with consomme on the side. The birria meat itself was very delicious too. - Birria Quesadillas: the more traditional birria style, these ones have cheese, plenty of meat and a side of consomme and their spicy aioli. The combo of birria quesadilla + spicy aioli + consomme definitely packed a punch and was a heck of a bite. My only qualm here was it would be nice if the quesadillas were crispier and if the consomme was a bit less salty Overall would say this is one of my fave mexican spots in the city. They do their meats really well, everything is fresh, and their cocktails are great which makes this perfect for anything from a lunch with friends to a date night.

Marie N.

Situated on the edge of Kensington Market, you'll find Grant van Gameren's mezcal bar, El Ray. In addition to incredible cocktails, they serve a mean takeout menu of Mexican-influenced street fare including tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and molotes. For tacos, try the Al Pastor (grilled pork with pineapple relish), cauliflower or crispy squid and tamarind. If you're looking for something a bit different, opt for one of the molotes, a crispy corn-based pastry pocket stuffed with a variety of braised proteins and veggies. El Ray's guac is also a must -- laced with just the right amount of cilantro for a refreshing bite. If you're hungry, consider ordering extra because each dish comes with two pieces.

A View at the Bar~
Lisa C.

This little hole in the wall spot is super cozy, cute and perfectly tucked away in between the shops. Britt B. located this place on Yelp when researching the neighboring vintage shops. She wanted to give it a try due to her affinity for mezcal. We were greeted by our bartender and server Mark(c) immediately upon entry. We opted to take seats at the bar given our sole purpose was to enjoy adult beverages. Two of us ordered margaritas with sugar rims and the other two opted for the Open Windows cocktail featuring mezcal. The margarita was great and the other cocktail was enjoyed by the gals who appreciate the smoky flavor of mezcal. In fact, they enjoyed two each. I would've loved to try the tacos; however, we enjoyed a large lunch at the CN Tower earlier in the day so I lacked the appetite. We did order the guacamole and chips as well as the marinated cucumbers. I loathe cucumbers so I can't attest to whether or not these were enjoyable. Albeit, the girls appeared to enjoy them. The guacamole was quite different than what I'm accustomed to ordering as it featured garbanzillo, crispy chickpeas and pickled cucumbers. It's definitely an interesting twist on good ole faithful guacamole with a hint of lime and fresh cilantro! The chips were nice and crisp and somewhat mimicked a pita chip. Mark(c) did an excellent job taking care of our needs and was super friendly. Additionally, he provided some worthwhile advice when asked about particular venues. The drinks were superb, the food was fresh, the restaurant and restrooms were clean. I would definitely return here, but with an appetite!

The Open Window!
Alex C.

Mezcal is in their name, and El Rey wins at that game! I'm a huge fan of mezcal so naturally was excited to try to this cute little bar in the Kensington Market neighborhood, and to say this place exceed my nonexistent expectations would be an understatement. Came here my first night in Toronto, and after a long day of traveling, I couldn't think of anything I wanted more than a taco and a mezcal, and El Rey fulfilled that hankering (and then some). El Rey is pretty small, and on a Friday night, the place was popping! Upon arrival we were greeted by the host (who doubled as a bartender) and let us know he'd get us a table, and less than five minutes later, we were escorted to the next room and sat at an adorable two top. Our waitress came over quickly and took our drink order. I had the Open Window (tequila, mezcal, chilis) and wow did it hit the spot. Smoky, spicy, and very drinkable; it was absolutely delicious. I took the al pastor tacos, with a pineapple relish, and this smoky hot sauce that was out of this world. The perfect hint of spicy while still retaining flavor yet not taking away for the tender meaty flavor of the al pastor. El Rey definitely leans more on the side of a bar that happens to serve food, over the other way around, but that is fine with me! El Rey is one of those places that specializes in one or two things and absolutely murders it. My friend had the Walker Choice cocktail, which was very floral, effervescent, and very refreshing. Overall, amazing food, beverages, services, and vibe!! Def a place I could see myself coming back to just hang out and grab drinks with friends, especially in the summer months because it looks like they have an adorable patio outside.

Bar
Lily D.

El Ray never disappoints. Whether it's cocktails, ceviche, or Mezcal they always hit the spot. The ambiance inside is so warm no matter where you're sitting. The patio is a patio. They have such friendly staff always willing to recommend food n' drinks. Yes they have good tacos, guac, and margaritas... but the name of the place is MEZCAL BAR! So if you Don't know what that is ask their staff and step into the world of Mezcal. Perfect date spot. Prices are what you would expect anywhere decent in Toronto.

mexican decorations

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Food was really good , really good service , great with allergies and a very chill spot for a day of walking around the market

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LIBRARY BAR - Close, But No Cigar

LIBRARY BAR

4.1(161 reviews)
1.7 kmFinancial District, Downtown Core
$$$

I would go back again in a heartbeat. This was one of the best meals and experiences of the year…read more The shaved prime rib steak with the dipping au jus plus French onion soup as an appetizer... this was phenomenal. Every aspect from the sauce to the baguette to the meat was so tasty. I also recommend getting the garlic aoli for the fries. The drinks were very well done and unique in flavor as well, in particular I tried to the midnight show which was like a raspberry espresso martini. It was fantastic. The ambiance of the place is spectacular as well with a cool, library naturally, vibe. The servers were also great and helped accommodate my date who is gluten free, and her baguette replacement was the best that she'd ever had of a gluten free option. All in all top tier experience start to finish.

This cocktail bar inside Fairmont Royal York Hotel has a nice classy ambiance. It feels like…read morestepping into a movie set, with the iconic clock tower. They decorate the lobby, bar area, and the whole main floor with Christmas decorations during the holiday season, including the giant Christmas tree in the lobby (complete with its own lighting ceremony and live music performance). Good selection of drinks and great customer service. Fun facts: The Royal York Hotel opened in 1929. It hosted royalty, heads of state, and golden-age Hollywood legends like Cary Grant and Alfred Hitchcock when they were in town filming or staying upstairs in the hotel. Stepping inside is like time-traveling back decades, with velvet seating, brass accents, and dark, moody lighting. As soon as you walk into the Library Bar, the real centerpiece that grabs your attention is the massive oil portrait above the fireplace. That dignified gentleman watching you sip your drink is George Locke, the very first chief librarian of the Toronto Public Library. I love that a librarian is the patron saint of this bar! The drinks here aren't just cocktails; they're chapters in a story. The current menu, titled "Ink & Alchemy," is actually inspired by Michael Ondaatje's famous novel In the Skin of a Lion. Created by their award-winning mixologist James Grant, the menu is a tribute to the people who built this city: the immigrants, bridge-builders, thieves, and dreamers. You aren't just sipping a martini; you're drinking a liquid homage to Toronto's history.

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LIBRARY BAR - Library Bar

Library Bar

LIBRARY BAR - Burrata

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Daphne - Black Truffle

Daphne

3.9(56 reviews)
1.5 kmFinancial District, Downtown Core

I came here for weekend brunch this afternoon and ordered the steak and eggs. The steak was just…read moreokay -- it was fairly tender but lacked flavour and didn't have a nice crust, which was a bit disappointing. On the positive side, the hash browns were excellent: perfectly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. I also tried the lychee and cactus pear juice, but unfortunately it tasted quite artificial and wasn't to my liking. The restaurant itself is modern, clean, and nicely designed with comfortable seating. Service was a highlight -- our server was very attentive and friendly throughout the meal. Overall, the experience was good thanks to the atmosphere and service, but the food didn't really stand out for me, so I don't think I'd return specifically for the brunch.

I really wanted to try out this restaurant because of how hyped it is on online and the food looked…read moregood but i knew it wasn't going to be amazing. I got to the special steak cut of the day which was a bone in rib eye. It was 32oz and good to share with 1-2 people. I also got the truffle butter with it and would skip on that as well. I would just skip the steak as there was nothing special, i mean it's not a steakhouse but i'm a little sad. The sides were good. and the pizza was good too. Service was just meh, my server wasn't that very attentive but maybe he was having a hard day. This restaurant is only worth it if you're going for the ambiance, appetizers and drinks.

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Daphne - January 13, 2024 -  I wonder if the wine bottles have wine in them

January 13, 2024 - I wonder if the wine bottles have wine in them

Daphne
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Cactus Club Cafe - Crispy yam fries, chicken sliders and another peach Bellini

Cactus Club Cafe

3.8(695 reviews)
1.5 kmFinancial District, Downtown Core
$$

We go here whenever we don't want to cook. The food, service, and ambiance is super consistent. The…read morefood is tasty and good happy hour out of most happy hours in the area! Great for lunches, especially during patio season when the third floor roof is open. At night, it's moody and dark, lit by candles on the table and the tvs at every corner with sports playing or generic videos. Dishes that I always get are the creole blackened chicken, avocado kale salad and truffle fries. The sunset soda is also a great, cheap and low calorie drink. Honorable food mentions are their featured (at the time) crab dip and the salmon aburi sushi.

This was not our first time at a Cactus Club but this was the first time at this one. As expected…read moreit did not disappoint. It was a Sunday night , the day after Valentine's Day and it was packed. Good thing we had reservations. Despite how busy it was we were seated right away and our server Sarah was an absolute gem. Our drinks came out quickly and well made. They have a great wine list and we took advantage of it. So, ambience - check. Service - check. But it was the food that blew us away I started with the Wagyu carpaccio that emma's to die for. Just perfect with the crostinis. The my wife had the avocado bowl with salmon and I had the mushroom striploin. Both meals just freaking delicious- these folks have it down to a science and the food was off the charts. Some people may disagree because it's a chain restaurant but when they hit on all cylinders, which they have every time we've been there, it's awesome. Cactus Club - highly highly recommended. Ask for Sarah - she is amazing.

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Cactus Club Cafe
Cactus Club Cafe
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Frozen Cosmo

Black+Blue Toronto - Lobster Vongole

Black+Blue Toronto

4.0(109 reviews)
1.5 kmFinancial District, Downtown Core

I had the pleasure of being treated to a birthday dinner at Black + Blue, in the heart of the…read morefinancial district and the entire experience was nothing short of exceptional. Ambiance: Stunning from the moment you walk in. Despite the soaring ceilings and two-level layout, the space still feels intimate thanks to the dim, romantic lighting. We loved being seated beside each other rather than across from one another, an option I appreciated compared to the large half-moon booths in the centre of the room. Tables line the perimeter and upper level, while small trees with twinkling lights frame the booths, adding a whimsical, almost magical touch. A window displaying the cuts of steak was a fun and enticing detail. Appetizers & Mains: Every bite impressed. The seafood atop each piece of nigiri was incredibly fresh and buttery, literally melting in your mouth. The lobster mashed potatoes were an indulgent and unforgettable accompaniment to the perfectly tender steaks, which were thoughtfully presented tableside before cooking. Dessert: We saved room (and I'm so glad we did!) My cheesecake arrived beautifully plated with a candle and birthday message, while my boyfriend enjoyed the butter cake. Both were absolutely delicious and the perfect ending to the meal. Service: Every team member we encountered went above and beyond to make the evening feel special, but a heartfelt shout-out goes to our charming server, Vig. He was attentive, warm, and genuinely invested in ensuring each moment felt intentional and unique. He also shared enticing reasons to return for lunch, happy hour, and weekend brunch (options we had no idea the restaurant offered). Thoughtful Touches: From coat check, a welcome birthday cocktail, a personalized birthday card from the staff, to complimentary bubbly with dessert, every detail was thoughtfully considered. Both of us work in the area and will absolutely be spreading the word with our teams. I left feeling like a very lucky lady after such a memorable birthday celebration. We can't wait to return!

Amazing food, vibe and service…read more Definitely recommend trying it out especially during the holidays.

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Black+Blue Toronto - Inside

Inside

Black+Blue Toronto - Avocado & Bluefin Tuna Maki

Avocado & Bluefin Tuna Maki

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Entrance

After Seven - The green house

After Seven

4.6(65 reviews)
0.8 kmDowntown Core

There is a particular pleasure in discovering a bar that requires you to earn your entrance. After…read moreSeven conceals itself behind an ice cream counter, its existence betrayed only by those who know to ask -- a conceit that could easily feel gimmicky but instead lands with genuine charm, setting the tone for what follows with quiet confidence. The room is small, intentional, and lovely: intimate seating, a sculptural emerald bar, and an atmosphere drawn from the Japanese cocktail tradition. The aesthetic is precise without being cold, and the candle-warm lighting encourages exactly the kind of unhurried conversation that a well-made cocktail deserves. But the bartenders are the true heart of the place. On the evening of my visit, the two behind the bar moved with a remarkable synchrony -- finishing each other's thoughts, trading warmth and wit in equal measure, drawing guests effortlessly into the orbit of their easy rapport. It is the kind of hospitality that cannot be trained into existence; it is either present or it isn't, and here it is very much present. The cocktail menu is East Asian in its inspiration and genuinely inventive in its execution.

such a hidden gem and speakeasy in toronto!! we went on a late weekday so we did not have to fill a…read morereservation, and instead was able to get seated right away at the bar area as we walked in. this place seems to specialize in asian flavoring, so drinks may taste umami on top of the sweetness and alcoholic taste of the drinks. i appreciate the art and tedious mixture of the drinks we had! this place was dimly lit and served the perfect vibe for me and my partner to chat, enjoy our beverages, and take cute pictures.

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After Seven - Bar seating view

Bar seating view

After Seven
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LOUIX LOUIS - NY trips frites

LOUIX LOUIS

3.6(173 reviews)
1.6 kmDowntown Core
$$$

Perched high above the bustle of downtown Toronto, LOUIX LOUIS makes a compelling first impression…read more The dining room is genuinely handsome -- a study in polished Art Deco glamour softened by sweeping city views that lend every table a sense of occasion. On a Valentine's Day brunch visit, the atmosphere alone was enough to justify the reservation. The kitchen demonstrates genuine competence: dishes arrive with care, the pacing is unhurried, and the mise en scène -- from tableside presentation to that now-famous thirteen-layer chocolate cake -- reveals an establishment that understands the theatre of fine dining. That towering slice of chocolate cake, in particular, is a masterstroke of marketing and pastry craft in equal measure; it draws the eye, earns its reputation, and very nearly steals the show. Where LOUIX LOUIS gives one pause is in the cuisine's ability to fully match its surroundings. The cooking is accomplished and reliably pleasant, yet seldom rises to the level of genuine distinction one might hope for at this price point. Dishes satisfy without surprising; technique is evident but inspiration, at moments, feels held in reserve. For the corporate traveller or the visitor seeking a polished, geographically convenient showcase of the city's skyline, this represents an entirely sound choice. For those seeking an experience whose flavours linger as long as the view, the kitchen has room yet to grow into its magnificent stage. Service is attentive and well-intentioned, though it can occasionally want for the depth of knowledge that elevates a good meal into a memorable one. LOUIX LOUIS is, in sum, a very good restaurant striving -- not quite yet arriving -- at greatness. The bones are exceptional; one hopes the culinary vision will, in time, catch up with them.

My boyfriend took me here for our anniversary and it was memorable to say the least. This…read morerestaurant is located in upstairs on the 31st floor of the St. Regis hotel. Coming in, it felt very luxurious. To be honest I was a little nervous because I came in feeling out of place as it is not somewhere I would eat casually, but the waitress that assisted us was so kind! We came strictly for cake as we had eaten right before, but we took a peek at the winterlicious menu, and the prices looked super affordable! We ordered the cake and yes, it maybe just be a tall slice of cake, but it was moist and decadent and probably my favourite cake. Overall, if you are a chocolate cake fanatic, this is the place to go!

Photos
LOUIX LOUIS
LOUIX LOUIS
LOUIX LOUIS - Madame Tallien Cocktail $28

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Madame Tallien Cocktail $28

El Rey Mezcal Bar - cocktailbars - Updated May 2026

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