Enjoy a refreshing Pimm’s Cup at these Toronto bars
Anyone for Pimm’s? While traditionally enjoyed at English garden parties and in the stands at Wimbledon, this classic British cocktail can be found at quite a few places in the city. The gin-based libation is an easy-drinking summertime treat that’s both refreshing and deceptively potent. Here are seven Toronto spots where you can celebrate Pimm’s o’clock at any time of day.
The Queen And Beaver
35 Elm St, Toronto, ON M5G 1H1British expats craving a taste of home will find hearty English cuisine and an across-the-pond ambiance at this upscale pub on Elm Street. Naturally, the cocktail list is fit for a Queen and includes a traditional Pimm’s Cup in the summertime and seasonal variations in the colder months. The Autumn Pimm’s is a delicious take on the classic recipe made with Pimms No. 1., gin, chai, apple syrup and ginger ale.
Patois
794 Dundas St W, Toronto, ON M6J 1V1There’s plenty of unexpected pairings at this Jamaican-Asian spot on Dundas Street West. You might not think to order a posh British cocktail while enjoying juicy jerk chicken but the signature Pimm’s No. 876 here is definitely worth a taste. The fragrant beverage is made with Jamaican gin infused with dried hibiscus flowers (Sorrel), Pimm’s, lemon and ginger ale. Order the drink in a classic tall glass (or in a teapot pitcher to share) to enjoy alongside funky fusion dishes like dirty fried rice made with red sausage and sweet soya sauce.
LOCAL Public Eatery Liberty Village
171 E Liberty St, Toronto, ON M6K 3P6While the food menu at this casual Liberty Village restaurant delivers standard Canadian pub grub (burgers, poutine, nachos, hot wings), the bartenders aren’t just pulling pints. The cocktail list features a surprisingly inventive selection of libations (and corresponding hashtags to use when posting snapshots online). The Pimm’s & Ginger sticks to the traditional blend of Pimm’s No 1, ginger ale and cucumber and is served on the rocks in a tall glass with fruit garnish. It’s definitely the most appropriate drink to sip on while playing a round of bocce ball on the bar’s sprawling patio.
Blu Ristorante
90 Avenue Road, Toronto, ON M5R 2H2This upscale Yorkville restaurant is a decidedly civilized spot to enjoy fine Italian dining and a cocktail (or two) after an afternoon of shopping at the nearby boutiques. The award-winning establishment serves haute cuisine in a refined atmosphere. If you’re longing for a Pimm’s Cup, the bartenders here follow the standard recipe but give the drink a floral twist with the addition of fragrant lavender bitters.
Northwood
815 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M6G 1M1Stop in for a drink at this cozy Bloor Street café if you prefer your Pimm’s straight up without all that fruity nonsense. The popular neighbourhood hideaway is an inviting space that serves espresso by day and handcrafted cocktails by night. You’ll find Pimm’s No. 1 on the aperitif menu and served neat in a sipping glass. We suggest enjoying a drink here after a casual game of croquet at Christie Pitts Park just across the street.
Flatiron And Firkin
49 Wellington St E, Toronto, ON M5E 1C9Sure you’ll find ubiquitous Firkin pubs in locations across the city, but there’s something special about the St. Lawrence Market outpost. Housed in the lower level of the historic Flat Iron building, the recently renovated space offers cozy banquette seating and a sun-soaked patio during the summer months. You can satisfy your Pimm’s cravings all year long with a traditional Pimm’s Cup in the summer and a winter variation made with pomegranate juice, simple syrup and freshly squeezed lemon. If you’re hungry, the food menu features traditional English pub fare along with some healthier options.
Earls Kitchen + Bar
100-150 King St W, Toronto, ON M5H 4B6Looking for a place to loosen your tie after a long day at the office? Raise a glass at this lively resto-lounge where you’ll find a downtown crowd spilling out onto the open-air patio after work. Located on the ground floor of the SunLife tower, the happy-hour hotspot serves up a refreshing Pimm’s Cup made with Pimm’s, chai iced tea, ginger, fresh lemon and cucumber. The tasty tipple is available in a tall glass or in a charming china teapot to share.
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