House of McGrath

House of McGrath occupies the historic Comstock Building at 75 Victoria Street, reviving a multi-level space with deep roots in Toronto's brewing history. Co-owned by Matthew and Michele McGrath alongside their four children, the venue functions as both a traditional brewery and a European-inspired restaurant. Brewmaster Jeff Kurkowski produces classic lagers, pilsners, and stouts using traditional methods like decoction mashing and open fermentation, while Red Seal chef Scott Cooney leads a food program that incorporates house brews directly into recipes such as lager mustard and stout-enriched stews. The two-storey setup divides the experience between an upper-level dining room focused on seasonal European dishes and an intimate lower lounge featuring live music and a social atmosphere.

Visitors can expect a dynamic layout where reservations are recommended for dinner in the main dining room, while the lower level accommodates walk-ins looking for cocktails, draft beer, and casual evening gatherings. The menu spans items ranging from beer-brined pork chops and house Irish stew to duck confit and vegetarian options like mushroom Wellington, with prices generally tailored toward sit-down evening dining. The beverage menu rounds out the offerings with Canadian spirit-forward cocktails, smoked Old Fashioneds, and a curated selection of European wines. Situated in the downtown core, it aims to fill the gap for post-office hours social spaces in the area, operating daily from late morning through to evening.