(Check out our latest post: The Best St. Patrick’s Day (SPD) Parties in Toronto)
Grab your drinking buddies, put on some green, and get lucky on the annual celebration of all things Irish. Here are Toronto’s best places to drink on St Patrick’s Day…
The greenest day of the year is back — and, no, we don’t mean Earth Day. We’re talking about the good ol’ luck of the Irish. You know, pot of gold under the rainbow? That’s right, it’s been 365 days, and everything is turning green right in time. If you’re still hungover from last year’s day of the leprechauns, you did good, laddie! Time to get those running shoes on again, because we at Vv Magazine have found the perfect drinking marathon for you this March 17. Here are the top bars in Toronto you need to be drinking yourself green at this St Patrick’s Day.
An Sibin Pub
Located on the corner of Queen and Broadview, this classic Irish pub is the perfect place to get some green beer in your system this March 17. With live music sets and $5 specials on beer, mixed drinks and house wine every Thursday, this is the place to let your Gaelic side out at.
Grace O’Malley’s
For all you vital younger folk looking to find someone as enthusiastic about Irish car bombs as you, you might want to visit your favourite cool aunt Grace O’Malley’s this Saint Paddy’s. This year, they’ve invited three bands to play live music all day. You never know who you’ll meet over a beer and some fish n’ chips.
PJ O’Brien
With promises of the sweet sounds of live music and gallons of the sweet taste of the Irish classic Guinness on tap, Saint Patrick would be proud. Perfect for those folks with a real touch of the Irish in them, make your way out to Colborne Street and party it up with Mr. O’Brien.
The Roy
The quintessential quaint Irish pub located right in Leslieville, this local gem is going to be packed this weekend, perfect for those of you looking to make some new friends. In honour of their 7th anniversary, from March 9-16, specially-priced $3.00 Jameson shots and $6.00 Guinness pints will be on hand to help celebrate. On March 17, enjoy live music from 4:30pm to 9:30pm. What better a way to mingle than rubbing shoulders with someone after a couple of pints?
Indie Ale House
On a day that is all about beer, this small independent brewery makes and serves only brew. No cocktails, no shots, and no Caesars or martinis. This spot is definitely a haven for beer lovers.
Galway Arms
Opened by Tom and Della Keane, this beloved St Patrick’s Day hotspot really does have the touch of the Irish. This place is a step up from a pub, with a menu filled with delicious food you won’t feel bad about filling up on the next day. We can’t promise you that you won’t feel about your other indulgences though…
McVeigh’s
Right on the corner of Church and Richmond, this place has been getting people silly for 50 years. With Celtic music blasting starting at 12:30 pm ’til close and traditional Irish beer and food around, this is a great place to go looking for the luck of the Irish.
Stout Irish Pub
Right in the heart of Cabbagetown, this adorable Irish pub is ready for you on March 17. On the day of the leprechaun, you can expect $5.00 Jameson shots, $7.00 Luck Charm Lager, and $17.00 Devil’s Hurricanes. With live music putting out some good vibes (and no cover), bring on the party!
Dog and Bear
Although an English pub, celebrating St. Patrick’s Day at a bar with comfortable U-shaped booths lining a beautiful exposed brick wall is a comfy way to enjoy the day with some good beer and great food.
Ceili Cottage
Another Leslieville spot, there will be a number of St. Patrick Day events between March 14 and 17, along with live music with the Gil-Can dancers planned for the special day. Heading here will be guaranteed fun. It may even be warm enough to enjoy their amazing patio — perfect to catch some rays and enjoy the swarms of green.
Dublin Calling
Recently relocated, Dublin Calling is now in the hub of Toronto’s Entertainment District, making it the perfect spot to visit if you’re planning on party hopping. The new location features live music, 4 dart lanes and a pool table for ultimate fun. Join them on March 17 between 11am and 1pm for a pancake kegger with complimentary pancakes!
Brazen Head Irish Pub
Located in Liberty Village, Brazen Head’s specials are abundant all weekend. The patio is large and a prime spot for people watching on St. Paddy’s day. It’s also decked out with traditionally Irish menu, live music sets for the occasion, and beers ready to be tapped.
The Firkin on Yonge/The Firkin on Harbour
Celebrate St Patrick’s Day at the Firkin and you could continue the celebration by winning a Steam Whistle Pilsner Keg Party of your very own. Also, traditional yummy Irish grub will be featured on their menu, including Dublin spuds and traditional Irish stew.
What bars will you be hitting up on St Patrick’s Day 2016 in Toronto? Let us know in the comments below or tweet us @ViewTheVibe.