The old york has been a staple destination for the King St west residents for years. Even before the days popularity in the King West Village, locals from all over would flock there for great live music.
It originally opened as a bar for the local meat packers and tradesmen of the area. It now has some what of a trendy vibe to it, but not too trendy where it is overcrowded by weekenders.
The bar itself went through the show "Restaurant Makeover", but really didn't do too much transforming as the bar still resembles that of a "dive". A dive it isn't, great food....burgers, wings, fresh salads, and all the other regular pub fare. The selection of Beer on tap is pretty good. I once had my first Guinness at the Old York, followed by another 6 or 7 many years ago. A great spot for a beer, live music, and finger food.