The top 20 Irish bars and pubs in Toronto

October 15, 2022

Irish bars and pubs are where to go to party on St. Patty's, or just chill with a proper pint of Guinness at any time. Lots of these places serve traditional Irish food and host live music for a true taste of the Emerald Isle.

Here are my picks for the top Irish bars and pubs by neighbourhood.

The Beaches

Murphy's Law on Queen East has three levels so there's space for lots of people. A rooftop patio with expansive views is ideal on sunny days.

Cabbagetown

Play trivia or chow down on some of the city's finest shepherd's pie at Stout Irish Pub.

Church Wellesley Village

Cheap drinks and a patio overlooking the action of the street make O'Grady's a destination in this neighbourhood.

Danforth

Dora Keogh has been around for over 30 years and hosts frequent live events including traditional Irish music sessions.

Danforth East

Kilt & Harp is your source for noisy fun and classic bar fare along this stretch of the Danforth.

Entertainment District

Pool, ping pong, darts, Skee-Ball, big screen TVs and Guinness floats topped with ice cream make for nights of fun at Dublin Calling.

Etobicoke

Find brunch, Guinness rib specials and live music at St. James's Gate. They also have several private rooms that can be booked online.

irish pubs toronto

The Burren is equipped with a stone cottage room that will transport you to Ireland. Photo by Hector Vasquez.

Financial District

P.J. O'Brien stands out in this drab office neighbourhood thanks to a vibrant yellow and blue exterior, serving Irish breakfast for brunch.

High Park

Head to Whelan's Gate for fab pub grub like wings and burgers served in a rustic environment.

King West

Drink all the scotch at Belfast Love, which is equipped with a wide spirits selection, pool, and a patio.

Leslieville

What was once Ceili Cottage has been transformed into The Burren, but you can still expect oysters, live traditional Irish music and a spacious patio here. St. Patty's celebrations are always next level.

Liberty Village

Two floors at Brazen Head can accommodate larger groups, and they do events like drag brunches and Irish brunches.

Little Italy

Seek out the back patio at Cloak and Dagger, or take in live music while sipping a craft beer in the dim interior.

Mount Pleasant

The patio may be tiny at McMurphy's, but friendly service and properly pulled pints of Guinness more than make up for it.

Scarborough

Tara Inn is known not only for being one of the most legit Irish pubs in town, they also serve some of the city's best chicken wings.

South Core

Lucky Clover is a convenient and casual spot to hit up for a good old Irish time after a game or event at one of the many arenas and attractions nearby.

irish pubs toronto

When it comes to beer, Belfast Love has plenty to choose from. Photo by Hector Vasquez.

University of Toronto

Students flock to O'Grady's seeking Patty's Day fun or just to party at every other time of the year.

Weston Mount Dennis

Irish Rose is a lively bar where the beer is flowing nestled in one of Toronto's sleepier neighbourhoods.

Yonge & College

Weekend brunch, live music on Fridays and daily specials are what you'll find at reliable Irish-themed hangout Pogue Mahone.

Yonge & Eglinton

Scruffy Murphy's isn't the fanciest bar in town but you can always count on this spot for a good old beer-drenched time.