Tucked behind a minimalist façade at 878 Bloor Street West, Civil Liberties owes its mystique to what it doesn’t show. A simple illuminated pineapple and a discreet address hint at what lies inside: a neighborhood speakeasy that rejects pretension, menu constraints, and cocktail clichés. Stepping inside, you’re greeted by pressed-tin ceilings, metal navy stools, and copper penny accents—a charming mash-up of industrial grit and vintage flair. Remnants of plywood floors, silent movie projections, and river-of-people energy create an ambience that is both casual and carefully curated. “Kind over cool” isn’t just a tagline; the bartenders are genuinely welcoming, unafraid to recommend a beer or invent a custom cocktail tailored to your preferences. No printed menus here—just an exchange. Share your favorite flavors or liquors, and watch as the team crafts something unique and evocative. Feeling overwhelmed? Try their riff on a "dark Manhattan," and you might taste obscure amari you’ve never encountered before. Civil Liberties isn’t always serene—its vibe shifts fluidly from an alcohol-nerd symposium to a full-on lively party, depending on the hour. That adaptable energy, paired with playful design touches and top-tier mixology, has earned it rampant loyalty and prestigious recognition: ranked No. 21 in North America’s 50 Best Bars for both 2024 and 2025, and named No. 3 in Canada’s 100 Best Bars 2025. In short: Civil Liberties strips away the unnecessary, trusting its bartenders and atmosphere to do the heavy lifting—welcoming, bold, and endlessly creative.
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