Handlebar

Handlebar is one of those rare spots that nails the balance between chill and exciting. Tucked into the heart of Kensington Market, it’s got a casual, welcoming vibe where everyone feels at home. No pretension, no cover, just good times. There’s something happening almost every night—live music, DJs, themed events—and the crowd is always down-to-earth. The space itself is cozy and quirky, with a dark, cavernous atmosphere adorned with old bicycles, adding to its unique charm . I find myself bringing friends here again and again. It’s the kind of place where you can show up solo or with a group and still feel part of the scene. Plus, the drinks are solid, featuring a great selection of Ontario craft beers and classic cocktails like Negronis and Old Fashioneds . Handlebar is a true gem in the city’s nightlife scene. Whether you’re looking to dance, catch a live show, or just hang out with friends, this place delivers every time.

SO expensive. We were charged $19 for doubles. My main grievance is that I was not allowed to sing a full song after waiting so long. I don't know if the karaoke host didn't like me or what but he told me at least half an hour, we waited 1.5 hours, i put my boyfriends song and mine in together, he got to sing, someone else and then right before when I should have sang, the hoat announced he would be doing speed rounds cutting people off half way through their songs. And then he announced the next 6 singers, and none of them were me. I'm visiting from Vancouver and was excited to sing. Maybe it's because I'm femme and in a straight presenting relationship. There must have been a personal reason. I don't understand. Anyway the drinks are super over priced. Especially for what looks like a dive bar. We tip well, we spent a lot. If I'm not going to get to sing a full song I need to be warned so I can make other plans. I only have a few more days in Toronto. Korean food lady is super nice and the male bartender.

You guys should really do something about that blonde server lol. I loved the vibe and the music but her presence ruined my whole experience there. I’m never going back if she’s working. I would also let others know. People would not want to go there if she handles customers like that. If you really want your business to run properly and want customers come back, don’t use workers like that. It’s not like she has a “personality” and a “character” for a bartender. She’s just rude and doesn’t do her job properly. Why waste money on a worker like that.

Good music and enjoyable atmosphere. ‘Just okay’ service and a very good security guard. I appreciate his welcome approach. No foods available.

Such a waste of of space. My friend, who was 100% sober when she arrived, got cut off after maybe 3 - 4 drinks (1oz of alcohol each), while showing no signs of intoxication. The way that this establishment treated her will cost them business for the rest of their time on Augusta.

There was a bylaw officer all night last Saturday. I appreciate you kindly denying us service. My boyfriend didnt trip because he was drunk its because you have no lights and a huge gap when you arrive for everyone to trip on. Especially disabled people, which we both are. The place is not disability friendly and you will be kicked out based on personal bias. If you have a bylaw officer its your bars fault for overserving folks and not your generous patrons who pay your bills fault. We won't be back. Used to be regulars. But this place is garbage now.

Best place to go if you're looking for a good time any day of the week. The sound is good and the staff are sweet. Great open mic, live shows, and karaoke.

Was accosted by an employee because I went to the washroom with a friend, nothing nefarious was going on we were simply using the washroom and we had been in there for maybe 1 minute before they started banging on the door and yelling at us, and other people had gone to the washroom in pairs and no one said anything to them. When we got out the employee was yelling at us more and accusing me of “having an attitude” when I was trying to explain that nothing bad was going on and I was just accompanying my friend. The employee kept yelling at us and had such a power trip over the whole thing. The event was supposed to be open to all and the event was supposed to be in a friendly environment but the staff were incredibly rude and mean and created an unfriendly environment that really ruined our experience.