"Nothing screams "metal bar" quite like a façade emblazoned with more eviscerated bike frames and machine parts than a scrap yard. Even from the exterior, "the Bovine" makes an impression. Open since 1991, this is one of Toronto's most iconic rock bars; Lenny Kravitz, U2, The Strokes, Foo Fighters, Guns N' Roses, Kings of Leon, and Mötley Crüe have all played here. With live music almost every night, the institution always has something worth checking out. Fun mixed drinks, including piña coladas and mai-tais, are a nice option in summer, when the rooftop patio is open. The beers and spirits are pretty standard, but you're not here for high-concept mixology." - Todd Plummer
