I have many friends attending Ryerson University and when they talk about pubs, they talk about Imperial Pub. I finally checked this pub out this past Saturday evening and I have to admit, it was a pretty decent place.
The decor and and atmosphere hear are pretty freaky and eclectic. Some corners of this place look old and worn down with weird decorations on the wall. Another corner was actually very comfortable. It had leather couches and a fire place. Lastly, they have a stage area in the back was dark and dingy.
The crowd in this pub was just as mixed up as the decor. I was expecting a pub full of poor university kids and the rowdy noise that follow them around. I was shocked to see that when I came in the bar was full of older men looking down at their mugs with lonesome eyes. After getting some seats and taking a better look, I did notice people of the younger demographics scattered around. What was a happy surprise though was that there was a live band playing in the back. They were playing rock ballad after rock ballad and those that were able to get some room in the back looked like they were having a pretty awesome time. Pretty funny seeing the small dance area since it was covered with middle aged "suits" dancing with a very rowdy senior citizen.
My biggest beef with this place though is that it is pretty pricey for a place that is a regular for students. They were serving domestic on tap for around 7 dollars. I've been to prettier dive bars that sold beers for almost half the price.
One aspect I did love about this place was that the short brunette bartender was a true joy to be around. Throughout the night she would make small talk with me and my friends, making us feel very welcomed in a new bar. This review would have gotten a much lower score if it weren't for her.
I stupidly did not go up to the second level so I will be writing a follow-up to this review when that day finally comes.