Dive bar in the best possible way.
I just recently checked out the Horseshoe because of how close it is from my work. I'd heard about it but never went. Went in for just a drink as they don't have food (they have a pick up window to the A&W next door) beers are reasonably priced but not much selection. They have Heineken Creemore, Coors Light, Bud Bud Light. All of the beers a typical bar would have. No PBR or Guinness which is surprising.
The front bar is open every day starting at 12 and are open until 2:30AM
It's a very comfortable neighborhood bar feel that you don't get with a lot of bars in Toronto let alone on Queen West.
It's been around for a long time over 65 years and it's a Toronto landmark. The Horseshoe is known for music and they have had some pretty big names perform here over the years.
Now they book indie rock bands and tickets are usually under $20. They showcase local bands and get touring bands. They've booked some great up and coming talent and have even had some big names do a few secret shows.
The venue area is pretty small and can only hold a couple hundred people I think capacity is 400. There's a front bar area and then there's the show room in the back where you need tickets. If you wanted you could probably sit at the front bar and listen to the music for free.
I went to see Alvvays here and the sound was great no issues there. The stage was small but an intimate venue for a show. Sight lines were pretty good, even though I was in the heart of the crowd, I could still see. There were also tables and another bar in the showroom.
When the show was done, I had no problem getting home and it's about a 10 minute walk to Osgoode station.
I'd definitely come to the Horseshoe again for a show or drink!