The Mezz

What is The Mezz? Perched along Queen Street West where Parkdale meets Roncesvalles, The Mezz is a gritty, much-loved neighbourhood watering hole and community staple run by owner Sean McLellan. The dimly lit interior features hardwood floors, monthly rotating gallery exhibits from local Toronto artists, a lively front bar, and a leafy, vine-covered backyard patio fitted with picnic tables. It serves as a casual gathering place for west-end locals, neighbourhood regulars, and musicians catching live sets and open-mic sessions.

The Mezz Menu & What to Order Kitchen offerings center on unpretentious, wallet-friendly pub classics and reliable comfort staples. The standout order is the Guilty Milty, a towering double-patty smash burger paired with a generous basket of golden fries. Vegetarians can turn to the saucy eggplant parmesan sandwich served warm on a toasted roll, while Tuesday nights pull a steady following for the buck-a-shuck fresh Prince Edward Island oyster special. Pair the food with pints of classic local brews like Steam Whistle, a freshly poured Guinness, or no-nonsense rail drinks.

Know Before You Go Seating operates on a purely walk-in basis, with open seating across the front bar, indoor tables, and the rear patio during warm months. Live music and weekend evenings can fill up quickly, though weekday afternoons are relaxed and easy to navigate. Transit access is effortless via the 501 Queen streetcar stopping steps away, while street parking along Queen West is metered and limited.