out in ontario

Canada’s largest city has a gay bar scene that rivals NYC

A group of young folks smile with a beautiful drag queen with neon yellow hair. Photo via Woody's and Sailors.

Toronto, an expansive metropolis teeming with restaurants, vibrant nightlife, and globally renowned events, boasts multiple LGBTQ+ neighborhoods. The Church-Wellesley Village, affectionately known as the “gayborhood,” is a lively hub with an array of gay bars, clubs, and queer-friendly hangouts. Here, you can experience the beating pulse of Toronto’s queer community, with diverse and welcoming venues catering to all tastes.

Beyond Church-Wellesley, Toronto’s LGBTQ+ scene extends its reach to other neighborhoods like Queen Street West and King Street West. Here, you’ll discover trendy cocktail lounges and eateries that aren’t totally gay-specific. However, just like New York or San Francisco, these inclusive spaces add to the city’s queer-friendly offerings. Virtually every establishment in Toronto welcomes everyone with open arms.

So, pitter-patter, let’s get at her. We looked at GayCities user reviews and made this list. Here are the top six most popular gay bars in the Six…

1. Flash on Church

Flash on Church

Dancing and mayhem rule 463 Church St · Toronto, On M4Y 2C7
(416) 925-8363
Website

If you’re looking to support sexy dancers and brand-new baby drag queens, Flash is the place to be. With nightly events, dance parties, and raunchy live entertainment this is a great spot to enjoy ripped abs and a private dance or two.  

2. Black Eagle

Black Eagle

Cruise bar for the leather, denim, and uniform 457 Church St · Toronto, ON M4Y 2C5
(416) 413-1219
Website

Straightforward and upscale, Black Eagle is popular with the sexy leather crowd of Toronto and is welcoming to all. This bar never pretends to be something it’s not; you’ll find a wide selection of cocktails, plenty of cuties to chat with, and an airy patio for warm summer nights. 

3. Woody’s

Woody’s

Cavernous venue with five bars and strong community involvement 467 Church St #465 · Toronto, ON M4Y 2C5
(416) 972-0887
Website

Come enjoy some of the finest drag queens in all of Toronto! Every night you can catch a new performance; the atmosphere is always fun, welcoming, and a little bit wild. If you’re a fan of contests for who has the cutest butt, you won’t want to miss a moment at Woody’s!

Just next door at Sailor, you’ll find the same crowd and a rollicking good time!

4. Crews & Tangos

Crews & Tangos

Popular club complex offering drag shows 508 Church St · Toronto, ON M4Y 2C8
(647) 349-7469
Website

Crews & Tangos has been Toronto’s #1 drag bar and dance haven for over a decade. You’ll always have a successful night out here with top-tier entertainment, handcrafted cocktails, and a buzzy atmosphere. This local hotspot offers multiple levels to dance and enjoy music.

5. El Convento Rico

El Convento Rico

Caliente entertainment in the village 750 College St · Toronto, ON M6G 1C4
(416) 588-7800
Website

This Latin-inspired dance club, nicknamed the Motherhouse, welcomes all – gay, straight, and in between! Samba is the dance of choice here, but don’t worry if it’s new to you – no one on the jam-packed dance floor will notice.

6. Pegasus on Church

Pegasus Bar

Pool tables & trivia nights 489B Church St · Toronto, ON M4Y 2C6
(416) 927-8832
Website

This friendly bar, located in the heart of Toronto’s gayborhood, serves as a gathering spot for locals and travelers alike. Come for the trivia nights and pool tables, stay for the fun crown and strong drinks.

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