full disclosure: i am an improv performer who has performed at this venue. from that perspective, i will say that comedy bar is providing an incredibly rare service to the city of toronto. with the closing of almost every other small venue for comedy, it is now the sole incubator for new talent at an independent level in the city. for that reason, it is the best place to catch new comedy talent. shows can be hit or miss (given that rentals are open to the whole community) but ticket prices are cheap and it is pretty easy to settle into your favourite shows - stand-up, sketch or improv - with a comparatively minimal investment. yes, a somewhat self-guided discovery process, but that's part of the fun.
i also really like the menu and find the pricing good.
now that the second stage as been added, that back cabaret room is a great place to sneak away from the crowds late at night if you just want to grab some drinks and chat with friends.