The "On the Level" bar opened today. It replaces A.O. Kelly's Public House, which has been closed since May 1. What a HUGE improvement. It joins a growing batch of newly opened bars on the Bloor strip between Dundas and Keele streets.
To differentiate itself, it seems to exude the atmosphere of a romantic lounge where one would bring a date, versus the rec-room or pub-feel of the other bars in the area. Lighting is mainly by candlelight against what seemed to be dark wood panelled walls (the interior is completely refurbished). Music is 60s and 70s cool pop type.
The bar is run by Christopher and the chef is Quetin who's worked at several bars and restaurants on the Roncy strip. They serve craft brewed beer on tap, such as Mill Street, Creemore and Steamwhistle. Their beer home tap is Beau's Lug Tread Lagered Ale, which was tasty.
Didn't eat here, but they said they will be focusing on their food, and Chef Quetin says they will be changing up their offerings on a weekly basis.
I enjoyed my first night here, and there seems to be some real promise here. I will review them again in January when they are up to full-speed.