Brianna HarrisonLast weekend, my friend from out of town hit me up, asking where the best gay bars in Toronto were—he wanted a true taste of the city’s LGBTQ+ nightlife! Naturally, as a proud Torontonian, I took it upon myself to find the absolute best spots.
After scouring the scene, asking locals, and doing some late-night research (for science, obviously), I came up with the answer.
Here’s the ultimate list of the top gay bars and clubs in Toronto that’ll guarantee a night of fun, dancing, and fabulous vibes!
How much does it cost to go to a gay bar in Toronto?
All in all, a night out at a popular gay bar in Toronto can typically run around $40–$80 for drinks and cover.
Some clubs may have happy hour deals, so going earlier can help save a few bucks.
How We Chose the Best Gay Bars and Clubs in Toronto
1. The Drink
The Drink is a must-visit gay bar that has it all: drag shows, cocktails, and even some seriously tasty pizzas.
While weekends are bustling with energy and crowds, the weekday programming is just as exciting. It features everything—from dirty bingo nights and viewing parties to themed events like pajama and jockstrap parties.
The bartenders here are top-notch as well, especially when it comes to mixing up crowd favorites like their espresso martini.
If you’re going for a non-alcoholic night, you’re in luck. They have the best range of non-alcoholic options in Toronto, which is rare to find in many nightlife spots.
Food is another plus here, with options like pizza and nachos; you can enjoy tasty bites while catching a drag performance or hanging out with friends.
However, watch out for their bouncers, which we heard can be a bit rude.
One of my favourite bars in Toronto!
“One of my favourite bars in Toronto! -Service: extremely friendly and efficient! Love every single one of the bartenders here, and Jimmy (the owner) is the best! -Vibe: one of the only bars that has rotating events, which is super fun! Weekends are always busy, though they have some awesome special programming during the week too (eg. The monthly Hoebibi party is a highlight for me). -Drinks: fully stocked bar and the bartenders know their stuff! They also have various food offerings (pizza, nachos, etc.) which is super clutch when you want to nibble on something while enjoying a show with friends!”
Matt Botelho, Google Review
One of my favorite places!!
“Without a doubt, one of my favorite places!! The service is excellent, the waiters and bartenders always serve me very well and everyone is beautiful there…!! EVERYONE 😍 and I love the drag show…!!! I love that there is a variety of cocktails to choose from 🍸 the pizza is an excellent size to share with someone and the prices are excellent. I also like that they have various events and their bingo night. and that you have the opportunity to organize your party there. I LOVE IT!!”
2. Three Dollar Bill
Three Dollar Bill has a clear mission: to be a welcoming, safe, and inclusive space for the LGBTQ+ community so that they can celebrate who they are.
The bar is constantly buzzing with a great mix of events—catch a high-energy dance party, a fabulous drag or art show, or a fun karaoke or trivia night!
If you’re in the mood for a classic cocktail, they’ll make it spot-on. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can trust them to whip up something unique just for you.
We love that they even serve Cici’s pizzas until 9:30 PM every night—a huge win if you’re feeling peckish but don’t want to leave the bar for food.
They’re also open to private event rentals if you’re thinking of hosting an LGBTQ-friendly bash.
On a practical note, the bathroom is downstairs, which might be inconvenient for some.
My favorite bar
“My favorite bar. Such a wonderful atmosphere! Love the people, love visiting. Always a great time!!! There’s often a lot of sapphic people, which is lacking at some other bars.”
Lexa Valentine, Google Review
Amazing place to catch drag king shows
“Amazing place to catch drag king shows. I love their liquor quality as well. Very cool and queer accepting environment. Lovely patio.”
Maria Caterina Bruciapaglia Lampe, Google Review
3. The Lodge
The Lodge is a cozy, welcoming gay bar with a unique vibe, perched right above O’Gradys restaurant.
The drag shows here are truly a highlight, especially if the incredible Jordana Myles hosts—we think she’s hilarious! Her performances are spot-on, but it’s her quick-witted roasts and crowd interactions that take the night to a new level.
There’s a great variety of events beyond drag too, like Singles Mixers and Sapphic nights, so you can always find a reason to pop in.
Plus, their daily drink specials to keep things fun—think $3 Porn Star shots and $6 Fireball shots. And if you’re feeling bold, the $6 “spin the wheel” shot gives you a random choice for a surprise!
Unlike most bars, their kitchen is open until 2 AM—try their jalapeño poppers; perfect for late-night cravings. Note, however, that the service can be on the slower side.
Such a wonderful and inclusive place
“Such a wonderful and inclusive place with the BEST STAFF, FOOD, AND ENTERTAINMENT!!! Best birthday dinner I’ve had yet! Thank you so so much to everyone at the lodge!!”
Taliah Bellmann, Google Review
Drag show Saturday was awesome!!
“Drag show Saturday was awesome!! Thank you! Will be back!”
YAri, Google Review
4. Woody’s and Sailor
Woody’s and Sailor proudly claims the title of Canada’s number-one gay bar, and after 35 years, it’s easy to see why.
They’ve earned some well-deserved fame over the years, having been featured on Queer as Folk. They were also highlighted in a Late Night with Conan O’Brien skit and even showed up in the 2020 film Jump, Darling.
Of course, drag shows are quite popular here. So much so that they host one nearly every day of the week!
While everyone knows about their nightly DJs, it’s their “Best” contests—think Best Chest, Best Ass, Best Legs, etc—that steal the show. Winners get cash prizes and passes to local gay-friendly spots like dance clubs and bathhouses.
On the other hand, we did hear about their rude security staff.
Best place on earth
“Best place on earth. Literally have never had a bad experience here and I’ve been coming for awhile. There’s one bartender who I love so much so caring for everyone. Staff like him are what make the atmosphere so much better. Cory is amazing!!!”
Alana Murray, Google Review
Very fun and spacious queer club
“Very fun and spacious queer club on Church St featuring a pretty diverse crowd and frequent drag shows. They also do RuPaul’s Drag Race screenings. I just wish there was a little bit of room and time for pure dancing, since there are shows from beginning to end. But the queens are amazing!”
Bruno Rigonatti, Google Review
5. Black Eagle
Black Eagle caters to the leather and denim crowd and anyone with an appreciation for its edgy vibe. Known for its dark, industrial decor, this bar is also undeniably stylish.
They host some really creative themed nights, such as Gaystation, a video game night. Their KINK 101 event offers an intro to BDSM, and their Erotic Life Drawing sessions come with live models in provocative poses.
For a different vibe, check out Retro Sunday. The throwback tunes are perfect for a night of low-key dancing.
And if you’re around in the summer, their rooftop patio’s weekend BBQ is an awesome spot to hang out. Costco burgers loaded with all the trimmings and a cold drink in hand sounds like heaven!
That said, we heard that getting in can sometimes be a hassle, with long lines that can stretch close to an hour.
By far my favourite gay bar in the city
“By far my favourite gay bar in the city. I feel so welcomed by all the staff. Big shout out to the bouncer who is there every weekend , super nice and chatty guy. Every bartender I have encountered has also been friendly.”
Matthew Hebert, Google Review
My favourite place in the gay neighbourhood of Toronto
“Great club with very good parties and DJ’s. My favourite place in the gay neighbourhood of Toronto. All the staff members are outstandingly friendly and welcoming, that makes an extra good feeling.”
Tomass Larsens, Google Review
