It’s a newcomer to the Queen Street strip, but this cozy pub seems like it’s been around for ages, already with its own faithful set of regulars—an eclectic mix of local hipsters, musicians (budding and established) and mature biker dudes. Solo sojourners gravitate toward the sweeping six-metre mahogany bar for a pint of Austria’s refreshing Stiegl beer ($7), conversing with the affable bar staff or tête-à-tête in circular booths, celebrating the end of the workday. The mismatched bohemian decor (’70s-style lava lamps, barber and massage chairs, Christmas lights and the essential plaster Elvis) provides a welcome reprieve from the cool symmetry and stark white couches of cookie-cutter modern lounges. There’s live music every evening, with DJs later. Genre varies by day, from bluegrass on Sundays and traditional Irish jams Saturday afternoons to an entire White Stripes album played on a weeknight.

Tip: Four food items offered every night (Irish stew, a curry, soup and sandwich, perhaps) from a menu presented on a 12-inch LP (from one of the decorative jackets hung on the wall at sister location The Local).

The Session, 512 Queen St. W., 416-203-7961.