Travis Bickle in Taxi Driver dreamed of a day when a real rain would come and wash all the scum off the streets. In the Junction — currently celebrating the centennial of its incorporation as a city (a distinction lost a few amalgamations ago) — the rain was boozy, as the end of prohibition in 1998 has ushered in a slow but obvious shift in the neighbourhood’s character from skid row–bleak to boho-chic.
OLD STANDBYS Preserved pre-WWI architecture along the Dundas West strip means very little space on the sidewalk, so the side patio at Axis Gallery and Grill (3048 Dundas W., 416-604-3333) is pretty close to the only al fresco drinking option. Inside: exposed brick, live music, a decent brunch menu and a Thursday karaoke night that’s been known to draw indie scenesters in exile from the overcrowded Gladstone.
There are a couple of tables on the sidewalk, but the action is inside Shox’s Billiards Café and Bar (2827 Dundas W., 416-762-7097), especially on game night when the 20 satellite TVs get called into service. Also: half-price wings on Tuesdays and Thursdays, plus free pool for ladies on Thursdays.
The Hole in the Wall (2867A Dundas W., 416-760-7041) is New York–style sliver of boozy throwback.
NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK Vinyl records? Check. Teeny ping-pong table in the front window? Check. Movies shown on a big screen? Rec-room furniture from the ’70s? Art? Check, check, check. Margret (2952 Dundas W., 416-762-3373) may be so comfortable and friendly you’ll never get around to furnishing your own living room.
With a back patio that’s open until midnight, the Troubadour (3071 Dundas W., 647-345-8807) is a welcoming local pub with microbrews and comfort cuisine.