Toronto's most welcoming neighbourhood bar — VHS movie nights, trivia, DJ Fridays, and a door policy of literally everyone is welcome. The mismatched furniture, cheap drinks, and genuinely friendly staff make it the anti-King-West.
Neighbourhood: East Chinatown / Dundas East · Address: 600 Gerrard St E, Toronto, ON · Hours: Mon–Thu 5PM–1AM | Fri–Sat 5PM–2AM | Sun 5PM–12AM · Price Range: $ · Phone: (647) 867-3012 · Website: https://farsideto.com · Editorial status: Not yet verified
Because no other Toronto bar is this unpretentious about fun. Whether you're meeting friends or just want somewhere to drink and chill, Farside makes everyone feel like they belong.
Farside’s door policy is literal: everyone’s actually welcome, no matter what. The room doesn’t take itself seriously, and neither does the event calendar—it’s not curated, it’s chaotic in the best way. It nails the dive bar thing without any of the ironic try-hard energy you get downtown.
Farside does exactly what East Chinatown needs: it's a no-pretense spot where anyone can grab a cheap drink and blend into the crowd. Run by friendly staff who remember your order after two visits, the space looks like a basement rec room crossed with a thrift store—mismatched couches, wood paneling, a working CRT TV always ready for VHS playback. The drink list is all about local tall cans, easy cocktails, and low-priced snacks you’d expect at a real neighbourhood bar. Expect programming that feels lovingly homemade: VHS tape screenings, off-beat trivia, and plenty of room for a dance when the DJ booth is rolling.
No, just show up—Farside is walk-in only.
A $5 tall can and shot combo, or grab a snack if you're peckish.
Great for small groups (up to 6); larger parties might need to squeeze, especially on event nights.
Most drinks are $5–$8; snacks under $10.
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