Pubs and bars

I'm not much of a drinker, so I don't have a lot of recommendations here. BlogTO is probably your best bet; they had two lists of top Toronto picks.

I like down-to-earth places - unpretentious cocktails and dive bars - so if you like glitzier bars you should probably skip my list.

• Danu Social House is in Parkdale, and is great. Good atmosphere, classic cocktails, good events. This is a place that offers burlesque performances as well as a regular D&D drop-in session.
• Motel is just next door, and used to be my favourite Toronto bar. But the bartender was a real dick to me the last time I went in, which has taken the shine off it for me. Don't order anything more complex than a gin & tonic and you'll be fine.
• Ossington Avenue has lots of bars. Reposado is OK - they're a tequila bar with a nice covered patio area out the back with fire pits. Sweaty Betty's is a classic dive bar at the south end. Bar Mordecai is a short walk from the north end of Ossington, and frequently makes best-of lists. I've not visited, however.
• Pauper's Pub on Bloor gives me vaguely Wetherspoon's vibes, but it's big enough you'll probably get a seat and they have a rooftop patio.
• Done Right Inn is a good dive bar on Queen with a nice patio out the back.