I remember when this place was called Black Betty (and therefore served to always thrust that G.D. Ram Jam tune into my head). It has seen a dramatic renovation since then, and with it an equally dramatic improvement. It is now Cabin Five: the rustic, creek-fording, elk-skin-wearing little sister of The Fifth. Plenty of natural wood, animal hides and a deer head above the bar that I swear winked at me.
Cabin Five is right in the heart of Toronto's club district but it is decidedly different from most of their competitors in the 'hood. You won't find jacked-up bouncers outside, and rather than red carpet you have to make your way up a narrow fire-escapesque flight of metal stairs. They are less treacherous than may sound, but ladies may want to lead their consorts in case of any "spillage".
I came here for a special event (so no cover) and this place was packed to the gills. Even slammed, the bartenders were speedy and polite. The long bar never seemed to get too crowded. There are small seating areas throughout the space as well. If you hate clubs but need to take someone clubbing, meet your compromise.
Obligatory Title Pun: This CABIN'll give you a FEVER.
Menu Readability: None that I could see.
Need to mention: They have a coatcheck.
What this place teaches me about myself: I don't always club, but when I do, I make it a bar that doesn't resemble as club whatsoever.