Grossman's Tavern

What is Grossman's Tavern? Anchoring 377 Spadina Avenue right along the edge of Chinatown and Kensington Market, Grossman's Tavern is Toronto's definitive live blues institution, slinging pints and live tunes since 1943. Originally founded by Al Grossman and lovingly run by the Louie family since 1975, the venue remains an unapologetically unvarnished dive bar untouched by modern trend chasing. Inside, neon bar signs, low ceilings, and walls lined with decades of band posters frame a room filled with laminate tables, mismatched seating, and a long wooden bar counter facing the historic stage.

Grossman's Tavern Menu & What to Order Grossman's kitchen exists to serve straightforward, budget-friendly tavern comfort food designed to keep you fed between musical sets. The griddled cheeseburger and chicken fingers with a basket of golden hand-cut fries are reliable, no-nonsense staples. Wash everything down with cold domestic draft beer or local pints poured straight from the tap, alongside salty baskets of popcorn and bar peanuts. While specialized dietary menus are minimal, a classic grilled cheese sandwich provides a solid vegetarian late-night bite.

Know Before You Go Grossman's is strictly walk-in seating with no reservations, and the room packs shoulder-to-shoulder during peak weekend sets, particularly Saturday afternoon New Orleans jazz and the legendary Sunday night jam sessions. The easiest way to get here is via the 510 Spadina streetcar, stopping just steps from the front door. Operating hours run Wednesday through Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m., with doors closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.