Cocktails at Bar AfterSeven
Toronto’s cocktail scene has plenty of hidden bars and “secret” speakeasies that can be found in the back rooms of barber shops, apothecaries and even yogurt stores. Here’s three innovative ones every event planner should know about.
Gift Shop, 89 Ossington Ave.
A working barber shop in Toronto’s hip Trinity-Bellwoods neighbourhood is at the front for the Gift Shop, an intriguing cocktail den and lounge where guests are greeted by a mysterious barman known only as “H.” Inventive cocktails include the Man in the Yellow Hat with rum, banana butter cachaca, bananas and whole espresso bean, and the Charitable Assumption with a zero-proof spirit, mango and verjus. This eclectic yet comfortable space is available for private and event bookings.
AfterSeven, 10 Stephanie Street
Hidden behind Kome Yogurt in the Kensington-Chinatown neighbourhood, you’ll find After Seven, a Japanese cocktail bar. Upon entering the yogurt shop, tell the barista that you’d like to order a “number eight on the menu,” then head over to the “vending machine,” which is actually the entrance to After Seven. Enjoy the minimalist decor while sipping on signature cocktails, such as the Curry Colada with oak-aged rum, curry spices, clarified coconut, pineapple and lime, or let one of the mixologists guide your group through the drink menu for a curated taste experience.
A Toi, 214 King St. W.
If you drop by Coffee Oysters Champagne restaurant on King St. West and ask to visit the champagne room, you’ll be escorted to a chic Parisian-style bar.
The backstory only adds to the vibe: the boutique Hotel à Toi was built in the 1920s by French millionaire Antoine Mercier in honour of his wife Isabel. Indulge in an extensive cocktail list that includes the Brandy Daisy with cognac, yellow chartreuse, lemon, soda and mint, as well as non-alcoholic concoctions, champagne shooters and caviar bumps.
