5 small venues for live music in Toronto

The Gladstone is a historic building in Toronto. The venue has a small pub and stage on the main floor. This is the place to find great cover bands and enjoy a quality meal. There’s also karaoke on Saturday nights. Upstairs you’ll find hotel rooms you can book for the night. It’s a popular place so book well in advance.

It’s easy to miss this bar. The signage is small, and you need to head down a large flight of stairs to the basement. It opens up to a dining area on one side, and a pub on the other. Live bands take over on Friday and Saturday nights.

The Bovine Sex Club is a must if you are into alternative music. It has been a staple in Toronto for years. This edgy dive bar is not the place to spend a quiet, relaxed evening. It’s gritty, yet vibrant. The Tiki patio bar is amazing.

The Dakota Tavern has a unique Sunday brunch. For a 5 dollar cover at the door, you can enjoy bluegrass bands and purchase a tasty brunch meal. They serve a delicious cocktail called the Breakfast Mule: it’s a combo of vodka, ginger beer and grapefruit juice.

The Garrison is small, dark and gritty. There’s a small stage, and table space is limited, but they feature an impressive line-up of up-and-coming bands. They play the music loud, so if you’re sensitive bring earplugs or purchase a pair from the bar.