When industry vetted pair Tim Pritchard and Megan Jones opened The Gaslight, the Bloordale West set were finally given the charming neighbourhood joint they’d been longing for. The bar blends the class of a cocktail bar with the approachability of the Cheers-esque local, where everybody knows your name.
The somewhat barren stretch of Bloor Street between Dundas West and Lansdowne hasn’t always boasted an abundance of hip places to hang, but Megan and Tim had their eyes on the area. They had long thought that 1423 Bloor Street West was an absolute ideal location, but the space was previously occupied by Zocalo, a popular 100-mile-market inspired eatery.
When Zocalo closed its doors in the summer of 2014, Tim and Megan jumped at the opportunity and nabbed their dream space. "We had to pinch ourselves when the location came up for rent," Megan recalls. "This was the spot we fantasized about getting, but we never thought it would actually happen!"
Make your way to the quieter side of Bloor for a cozy evening at Gaslight – a new pub mostly lit by warm candlelight (and sorry, but what could be better on a blistery winter evening). Their main focus is craft beer, but they have a great selection of Canadian whiskey and tequila. And if you find yourself puckish while sippin’ your drink, don’t miss out on the broccoli poutine.
The self-proclaimed hidden gem of the Junction Triangle, this place is great for a more casual date, either just for drinks or some tasty snacks. In the summer months, The Gaslight has a picturesque patio (complete with romantic flowers and vines) and offers small scrumptious plates to share. This cavernous canteen also makes a mean cocktail – try the spiked apple cider.
A bit off the beaten track, this dimly-lit bar at Bloor and Symington is a welcome respite along a rather derelict stretch of the city. Couples sit at cozy booths with church pew seating, sip on draught beers from local breweries and nibble on charcuterie over candlelight. The bar is also stocked with a respectable selection of Canadian whiskey and tequila.