The John: On Bloor - Craft Beer and Bistro

4.7 ( 385 reviews )
Checking... 4:00 PM - 2:00 AM See Hours
1174 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M6H 1N1, Canada
Nestled in the heart of Toronto at 1174 Bloor St W, "The John: On Bloor - Craft Beer and Bistro" offers a unique blend of delicious food, vibrant atmosphere, and nostalgic charm. This bar has earned its acclaim for both its craft beer selection and thoughtful bistro-style menu. Patrons rave about the wings, which come in an impressive variety of flavors, and the addictive dill fries that have quickly become a fan favorite. The standout dishes include the flavorful pulled chicken sandwich, expertly paired with rich gravy, and the creatively crafted burger options, with even a peanut butter twist for the adventurous eater. Beyond the food, the ambiance is highlighted by retro gaming setups, from classic arcade machines to built-in consoles at some tables, making it a perfect haven for gamers and beer enthusiasts alike. Guests often mention the attentive and warm staff, enhancing the inviting vibe of the establishment. With unforgettable cocktails like the "Smokey And The Bacon Caesar" and a solid wine selection, "The John" promises a well-rounded experience that keeps patrons returning for more. In summary, this bistro isn't just a place to eat and drink; it's where good food, great service, and cherished memories converge, making it an essential stop in Toronto.

Amenities and More

  • Accessibility
    • Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
    • No wheelchair-accessible toilet
  • Service options
    • Serves dine-in
    • No delivery
  • Highlights
    • Has bar games
    • Has great beer selection
    • Serves great cocktails
    • Good for watching sport
  • Popular for
    • Good for solo dining
  • Offerings
    • Serves alcohol
    • Serves beer
    • Serves cocktails
    • Serves food
    • Serves food at bar
    • Serves spirits
    • Serves wine
  • Dining options
    • Has seating
  • Amenities
    • Has toilet
  • Atmosphere
    • Casual
    • Cosy
    • Trending
    • Trendy
  • Crowd
    • Good for groups
    • LGBTQ+ friendly
    • Transgender safe space
  • Planning
    • Doesn't accept reservations
  • Payments
    • Accepts credit cards
    • Accepts debit cards
    • Accepts NFC mobile payments
    • Credit cards

Reviews For The John: On Bloor - Craft Beer and Bistro

avry Skye
Jun 2,2025
Our food was soo good! We had the wings and the pulled chicken Sammy with fries and gravy 10/10 The servers were super nice and the vibe was so fun! Music 10/10
Ryan Bursey
May 23,2025
Great vibe and service. A great variety of wing flavours, wings are a good size too. And the fries are off the charts.
Mark Calixterio
Mar 25,2025
very peanut butter friendly: peanut butter stout, whisky, and wings(fresh not frozen, quite noticeable). requested a layer of peanut butter on their 7 burger offering and was so affectionately slathered. staff are inviting and warm blooded, decor nostalgic and memory inducing, pinball, board games and 2 consoles. Overall a well crafted establishment for well crafted unpretentious people.
Jarrett Thorne
Mar 20,2025
My partner and I have been coming to the John frequently for a few years now, and it might just be our favorite place ever. The owner is a very passionate and kind man, any time I bring a friend they are astounded by his jovial presence. The rest of the staff do a great job, and the John genuinely has a warm and fun environment. The food is superb too, the dill fries are dangerously addictive, and their assortment of pub grub is always satisfying. A nice feature is their sauce list, which you are able to mix and match for fun combos.
Priyank Gupta
Mar 10,2025
If you love great beer and retro gaming, The John: On Bloor is a must-visit! This place nails the vibe—solid craft beer selection, awesome prices, and a setup that feels like a dream for any gamer. Some tables have old-school consoles built in, and there are a few classic arcade machines that take me right back. The atmosphere is chill but lively, perfect for kicking back after a long gaming session or just ranting about that last match where RNG screwed you over. The beer? Top-notch. Good variety, fresh, and doesn’t break the bank. The staff know their stuff, too—friendly and quick, no nonsense. The food is great too. We ordered the Kimchi fries, the loaded fries and few chicken snacks, and they were great! If you’re into gaming, good drinks, and a bit of nostalgia, this is your spot. 100% coming back.
Ryan Parker
Feb 21,2025
Fun, delicious wing flavours (have you ever had buffalo orange crush wings?). Very friendly staff. Insane kimchi fries, like absolutely insane. So good. Cool, casual, really chill space. 10/lb wings on Wednesdays.
Dee R
Feb 13,2025
The John is amazing! This cozy Bloordale watering hole is non pretentious, welcoming, bright and such a good vibe and AMAZING food. And a good selection of drinks to boot. I have a shop a few doors down, and the owner came in one day and brought me a lobster dinner with a bib. I'll never forget that, I almost burst out crying cause it was so nice and I was having such a rough day. Their Taco & Trivia Tuesday night is so fun!! The John has friendly staff, fun customers, great atmosphere- and the food and drinks were top notch & affordable. 10/10, this place is awesome Must go!!
Allan Gomes
Feb 6,2025
Nice bar with old-school arcade games and good range of craft beers.

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