Sweaty Betty’s
13 Ossington, 416-535-6861 Rating: NNNNN
VIBE This tiny little bar at the corner of Queen and Ossington is one of the neighbourhood’s more down-to-earth spots, and the vibe is casual and friendly. DJs occasionally play rock music, but there’s not really any space to dance. Sunday afternoons Asian action movies screen in the back room, accompanied by sake specials.
SPECIAL FEATURES Most nights you get to be the DJ, selecting tunes from a jukebox stacked with classic rock favourites, punk, indie and country, and if you’re nice they may even let you throw on one of your own discs.
OUTDOOR ACCESS The licensed rear patio gets pretty busy in the warmer months, but it’s closed come winter, so smokers are stuck standing in front for now.
VALUE Prices are fairly reasonable (a pint of premium domestic beer will run you $5.25), and there’s never a cover.