I found The Pilot quite by mistake. You see Ernest Hemingway, the writer, used to hang out in Toronto back in the early 1920's and I was looking for the watering joints where he used to habituate (more on that in future articles) and I had heard The Pilot was one of his spots.
So, I get there on a Saturday, and to my surprise I found a room full of regulars enjoying an afternoon of jazz with beer. So I stayed. Yet, later, I found The Pilot had opened in 1944 so thus it's chronologically impossible for Hemingway to have habituated it. Either way though I ended returning again, and again, and again.
The Pilot is a three storey bar with a spacious rooftop patio, great for a relaxing sunny afternoon plus there is live jazz on Saturdays starting at 15:30 until 18:30. Always worth visiting anytime if you want to take a break from exploring but if you get a chance, check their website, check who will be playing and drop by. Just remember, you come here to enjoy listening to jazz, not to speak over it. So wear your jazz appreciation hat!
Also, if you get the chance, say "Hi" to Masoud, the low-key but always friendly bartender. His name means 'Happiness" in Persian and he is himself an institution and part of the bar since 1985! If he's not too busy ask him and he might tell you a few really great stories. More than a few are really good.
Find your way with 145 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
I recommend ordering a few of their smaller dishes to try, which should definitely include their renowned Bang Bang Broccoli!
by
"Khau Gully" is my favorite Northern Indian restaurant in Toronto. Street food is its thing but it's best to sit in for its beautifully painted dining room
by
From biodegradable bamboo products to personal care items that are better for both you and the planet, you can find plenty here for a more sustainable life.
by
It’s rare that I leave this store without having bought something, be it a beautiful ring for myself, or a unique piece of artwork to give as a gift.
by
With environmental sustainability in mind, Gia is a “plant-forward” restaurant, with the goal of sourcing produce locally, and organic when possible.
by
Founded over 15 years ago as a purveyor of vintage goods at local markets and pop-ups, Philistine now has two shops of its own, both on Queen Street.
by
"Aloette" in Toronto is an upscale bistro with a wider range of food. Their burger is definitely a staple, and their iceberg wedge salad is a sleeper hit!
by
"Swatow" Toronto's been my go-to for that kind of Chinese food for years -- you know, the comforting, inexpensive stuff that's still plentiful & delicious.
by
"La Salumeria" is always where I go when I need something delicious on-the-go during the day. It's a delicatessen that also makes the best sandwiches!
by
"The One in the Only" in Toronto is an eclectic coffee shop that just exudes positivity. Most of the decoration is a random mix of old photos & art prints.
by
145 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 145 Insider Tips