Statler’s Lounge

Maple Leafs vs Bruins in the first round of the playoffs, what an opportunity to watch the game with the locals! Statler’s had a spot at the bar with an unobstructed view of the television and a friendly bartender that was more than willing to keep the beers flowing.
They also had a guy playing the piano and singing. In a weird sort of way, it was actually a fairly decent accompaniment to the game! Not distracting at all, much to my surprise.
Statler’s seems to draw a somewhat older crowd that seemed willing to indulge my tourist conversation (‘what do I need to see while in Toronto?’). It was a pleasant enough experience for a few beers and seeing the game. Although, I suspect that I was somewhat in the minority as far as watching the game went, the others seemed more interested in the piano music… so don’t get the impression that this is a sports bar! For instance, late in the game, for some reason, the piano player launched into Neil Diamond’s classic Sweet Caroline… a staple of all things Boston Sports. Since the Toronto Maple Leafs were playing the Boston Bruins, and this bar is, in fact, in Toronto, I wasn’t really expecting to hear that particular song… especially sung with some vigor by the crowd gathered to see the piano player.
No, this isn’t a sports bar at all… but the drink prices are reasonable, the service is quick and friendly.

My friends and I were visiting Toronto for the first time this May. We’d heard there was a decent piano bar in the gayborhood, so we strolled on over. We were a little disappointed when we only saw 1 keyboard player (Chris) and 1 singer (a buxom blonde girl) surrounded by only a handful of awkwardly-​placed tables. Honestly, we wouldn’t have stuck around if the dynamic duo hadn’t teased us for standing outside and then welcomed us in. Luckily, a few chairs opened up right at that time. Note: you will likely share a table with strangers. We ended up sitting with a nice older gentleman. We were pleasantly surprised by how fantastic Chris and the curvy vocalist were (way too fantastic to be performing at some rinky dink gay bar in Toronto). They sounded great, had good chemistry, and played for hours. The venue itself, however, left a little to be desired. The service was friendly but spotty. Drinks were reasonably priced but weak (stick with the beer). The bathrooms were dirty, and you have to walk in front of the entire audience to get to them. However, the atmosphere was laidback and straight-​friendly. Bottom line: we had a good time without spending a fortune. We would definitely go back the next time we’re in Toronto.
Note: there is no cover, so be sure to throw a few bones in the tip jar for the performers!

Comfortable with an older but friendly bunch overall. Live music, with different people performing depending on the night. Liquor is well priced. best with a group.

I went there last Friday night June 12^th, the talent was great but the service sucked big time, the waiter was too busy standing outside to take our orders. Don’t think i’ll go back any time soon. We miss Joe.

I’m not a huge fan of Statler’s.
What used to be the hottest bar in Toronto, Lub, became the new home for piano bar Statler’s a few years ago.
Usually I love a good piano bar — classic show tunes are always a winner — but the layout of the bar is so awkward and odd that I never feel comfortable or relaxed, which is key to getting me singing Judy’s greatest hits.
I will say, though, that Ken Lindsay plays a mean piano on a Thursday and Friday night before 7pm and is well worth the visit when you’re passing on to the next village venue. He has an incredibly jolly vaudeville and cabaret style, and his loose approach to playing makes for a very unstuffy and enjoyable affair — as long as you can find a comfy corner in which to get comfortable.