The Central

The Central, aptly named, is located in the middle of the Bloor West nightlife scene. Once a well-loved jazz hub, the bar has undergone some big changes since it first opened back in 2007. Following a dramatic transformation courtesy the reality show Restaurant Makeover, the resto-bar is now co-owned by brothers Clement and Lucan Wai and managed by Evan Desmarais.

The moody neighbourhood haunt is situated in a multi-levelled townhouse tucked away behind the iconic Honest Ed’s department store. The ground floor features a lounge and stage area and one of the largest outdoor patios on the block. The upstairs is a more intimate event space for readings and screenings, complete with a foosball table and an enclosed balcony patio.

“I like to think of this place as a house,” says Evan. “We want people to feel welcome, like they’re at a big house party.” Thanks to its proximity to Toronto’s large universities and the unusually fair menu prices, The Central attracts a steady crowd of local students and twenty-somethings.