The Bedford Academy Toronto
The Ex-Ladies club
Originally the Toronto Ladies's Club back in 1996, The Bedford Academy is nestled in a quiet treed street, away from busy streets. I have many a memory enjoying the Summer on their well appointed patio. You get a sense you are in a small town, away from the hustle of downtown Toronto even though you are smack in the middle of downtown Toronto.
Indoors, you will find three storeys of warm wood accents along bookcases on one end and a more bar looking section to your left. My personal favourite place to sit is in the fireplace room at the round table on the corner, you can't miss it. Although it may be a bit too big for a couple.
Mike Wiatzka, both one of the Managers and main bartender always serves with a smile and an honesty which makes you feel quite welcome. Plus you should ask to check his tattoos, he's got a few. They're cool.
No wonder this place is always busy, especially during the Summer when finding a seat on the patio, specially for larger groups can be difficult but quite worth it.
Service is spot on and if the second floor is open then you can escape to a more secluded section for more personal conversations or a quieter meal.
Protip: If you're arriving via subway, get off at St. George's Bedford Road exit on the east end of the platform. You come up only about a minute from the locale. Not two blocks away.
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