Sous Sol

Tucked away in the basement of the historic C.H. Gooderham House, Sous Sol is a masterclass in atmosphere, operating as the moody, subterranean counterpart to the bustling Maison Selby upstairs. The space is tiny—barely seating 26—and leans heavily into a French boudoir aesthetic, complete with velvet couches, fringed lampshades, and walls that feel like they hold a century of secrets. It is the kind of place where the lighting is intentionally low to encourage intimate conversation, making it a perfect spot for a date or a quiet nightcap. The vibe is sophisticated yet unpretentious, feeling more like a private club for those in the know than a standard downtown bar.

When you visit, skip the standard menu and trust the bartenders; they are exceptionally skilled at balancing complex flavours and are more than happy to guide you toward a cocktail that suits your palate. While the drink list is the main event, they do offer a small, curated selection of elevated bar bites—the calamari with yuzu mayo is a surprising standout, and the charcuterie is always a reliable choice. It is a small venue, so if you are planning a weekend visit, arrive early to secure a seat, as it operates on a first-come, first-served basis and fills up quickly. Expect to pay premium prices for the high-quality mixology, and keep an eye out for the subtle, almost hidden entrance that makes finding it half the fun.