Pennys

In the up-and-coming west-end neighbourhood of Bloordale Village, Olivia Jewer, owner of Penny’s, sees her bar as a sort of middle ground between the community’s less polished roots and the higher-end establishments that have been popping up in recent years.

“I keep calling it a dive bar with a touch of class,” laughs Olivia. It’s an apt description: vintage ‘70s light fixtures hang above a reclaimed-wood bar creating a low-key, unpretentious environment, but it’d be tough to find another dive bar that has all the libations Penny’s offers.

Indeed, at Penny’s the discerning beer drinker will find plenty of homegrown Ontario draughts to choose from. Local brews on tap include Junction Conductor’s Craft Ale, Left Field Eephus Oatmeal Brown Ale and Beau’s Lug Tread, to name a few.

Those looking for alternatives to beer can try the artisanal and distinctly dry West Avenue Cider, or something off the bar’s signature cocktail list. Penny’s offers unique alcoholic concoctions on top of the expected Manhattans, Pimm’s cups and Caesars, like the Sloe Comfortable Screw in a Berry Patch. One of the bar’s specialties, the berry-infused medley of sloe gin, vodka and Southern Comfort owes some of its fruity flavour to a special ingredient: house-made strawberry syrup.