Dakota Tavern

Urban cowboys (and girls) are flocking to Ossington’s latest offering

Image credit: Margaret Mulligan

Concept: This honky-tonk hot spot has more in common with all-night stalwart the Matador than most of the joints on Ossington’s nouveau hip strip. (Unlike its after-hours compatriot, though, the Dakota keeps regular hours, which means country rock fans need no longer wait until 2 a.m. to take in a decent jam.) The basement location includes myriad authentic touches, such as barnboard walls and bar stools fashioned from barrels.

Crowd: Those not entirely comfortable with the thought of a hayseed hoedown needn’t worry—this cozy local is as much a cool kid hang as a swinging saloon, meaning that while cowboy boots are in ample supply on the dance floor, 10-gallon hats are left to the boys in the band. The place fills up on weekends, thanks to performances by local indie acts, but a quieter breed has been known to enjoy a (relatively) peaceful pint—just get there early.

Cocktails: A sign over the bar reads, “Unless Malibu comes in a bottle of Wild Turkey, we don’t have it.” They do, however, make a mean mint julep ($7.50) for those who like their liquor in a highball and not a shot glass.

The Dakota Tavern, 249 Ossington Ave., 416-850-4579. Monday to Saturday 5 p.m. to 2 a.m., Sunday noon to 2 a.m. Cover for special events.

May 2007