Attention sports fans! If you’ve scored yourself tickets to this weekend’s basketball, hockey, or baseball showdown, chances are you’ll be looking for a good-vibes place to grab a bite before the action starts or a pint to celebrate the result. We’ve got the goods on Toronto’s favourite go-to spots around the ACC and the Rogers Centre to pre-game, party afterwards, or just catch the event on a big screen.
Ah, the mecca of sports spectatorship in Toronto. The Loose Moose has carved itself a reputation as the absolute best spot for pre-game pep ups and post-game soothers (in the case of those oh-such-a-bummer losses) – but it’s also considered a mainstay for catching the televised version. That’s probably due to the super sweet vibes supplied by the eclectic décor, long communal tables, plenty of bar space to cozy up to, and a menu of upgraded pub classics. Oh, and it’s also got a cool 100 or so beer varieties on offer, and some unique cocktail options to boot.
Among the fanciest Firkins in the city, this Harbourfront Brit bar is a go-to among condo-dwellers along the water looking to catch the game televised or heading for a beer afterwards. You’ll find lots of communal and more private seating, plenty of TVs, and the Union Jack splashed everywhere you look (including on a tufted sofa that beckons you to sit back and relax with your pals). Oh, and they also boast a sweet pool table for a little intermission fun.
Just a stroll away from our most beloved sports stadiums, the Duke of Devon finds its classy-meets-chill home in the TD Centre. With a damn-that’s-huge patio and a low-lit, parlour-style vibe, the Duke of Devon caters to both the general rowdy crowd as well as those looking for something a wee more upscale (the latter should head inside to the candle-lit tables and leather booths). It’s also an ideals spot for catching a few cocktails with co-workers before the first pitch or faceoff.
This expansive Irish pub is flush with all the sports fan necessities: lots of screens and places to sit while you’re watching them, some crisp beer options, and a menu of all your favourite pub classics (plus a late night bites menu for a post-game tuck in). The subterranean spot below Joe Badali’s is all around good vibes and a relaxed atmosphere that nicely juxtaposes the intensity of the game.
For a post-game party that involves international craft beer, a charcuterie board and a turned-up atmosphere, head to the Esplanade and step into this brew emporium. Bier Markt gets live on the weekends, filled with everyone from sports fans buzzing from the latest game, to finance lads and ladies looking to unwind after a long week, to crews looking for a high-energy party-bar.
Apart from its comfy horseshoe booths, private tables, and plenty of bar room, this bar’s covered-in-TVs layout has made it one of the most famous sports fan spots in town. The enormous, projector-like television keeps everyone tuned-in on the excitement at hand, whether it’s the first pitch or the final slapshot. The sprawling set-up makes it a sweet spot to stop by with the pals after the game, too.
Canada’s go-to chain restaurant for casual beers, cocktails and a cheap and delicious dinner fare has a city-fave location right in the heart of the stadium district. Grab some pre-game grub at this patio’d spot, specifically outfitted for die-hard fans in search of a lively place to watch the game. If you’re keen to do some post-game celebrating, Jack Astor’s is sure to get packed – and in case it’s too packed, check out the Jack’s outpost in the Entertainment District.