Toronto Uncovered

Posts Tagged ‘Toronto Nightlife’

The Ossington strip has undoubtedly come a long way in the last ten years. It has successfully shed its reputation as a sketchy neighbourhood, and is now lined with tons of great bars, shops, and restaurants. Its one of the few areas  that still maintains a truly Toronto vibe, and has yet to become overly popularized and mainstream (although its probably only a matter of time). For these reasons, I find myself there at least once a week.

I could barely contain my excitement when  a couple of friends unveiled  plans to open a bar on Ossington.  After months of work and renovation, The Painted Lady opened its doors in January and has been bustling ever since. There are a million reasons why I absolutely love The Painted Lady, but in the effort to keep my posts a reasonable length, Ill try and sum them up as best I can:

1. Location, location, location. Located at 218 Ossington, The Painted Lady is far enough  from the downtown club scene to keep the number of out-of-towners (i.e. 905-ers) low. No one is rolling up in stretch limos or lowered Honda civics. No offense to those of you who enjoy this, its just not my cup of tea. Although it’s not right downtown, it’s close enough to be reached by the subway, streetcar, cab, or your ever reliable chevro-legs.

2. Super (fantastic happy hour) Staff. The owners, Sam and Nicky, can usually be found partying and chatting with their patrons; and the bartenders are   friendly, attentive, and FUN. Its not unusual to see them singing and dancing on the bar, or rocking out with their regulars.

3. You are drinking for the greater good. Nicky heads up the Canadian chapter of NOAH charity. NOAH  raises funds to build sustainable communities for South African children who have lost their parents to HIV and AIDS. The Painted Lady will host events throughout the year to raise money for NOAH.  Further details to come.

4. All the important no’s are looked after – NO LINE, NO COVER, NO DRESS CODE, and most importantly: NO PRETENTIOUSNESS

5. Food and drinks are cheap! Twenty or thirty bucks is enough get you through the night, leaving you well-sauced, and with enough change in your pocket for post bar, late night munchies.

6. The Baby Dolls poster hangs discretely on the back wall. If you weren’t sold on reasons 1 through 5, this fact should seal the deal. The rest of the bar is  adorned with  decorations that further highlight its playful character, such as an illuminated, flashing poster of Jesus, and over 80 portraits of painted ladies.  Even the trip  to the bathroom is unique, featuring leopard print wallpaper and multi-coloured Christmas lights.

Even though I am an East-ender, The Painted Lady really feels like my neighbourhood bar. It can always be counted on for a good time, no matter what night of the week. I have a feeling my liver is thankful  that I don’t live closer than I do.

Have you been there yet?

Other Posts/Reviews of The Painted Lady: Cameron’s Brewing Co.
and Martini Boys