Space:
I love it. While I agree with the reviews that it is confusing and exclusive to newcomers, once I figured out the layout I realized it's pretty intuitive.
To the right, there are couches and a few tables, it's a very "hangout" oriented atmosphere. You get the feeling that the people here are almost always here.
In the centre is the bar -- the way it's located allows for a lot of bar space. Lots of stools and places to eat the pub food.
To the left there is a narrow hallway, leading to a curtain and the theatre. This is great, in my opinion; the show goes on nearly unbeknownst to the happenings in the bar. The theatre is small, cozy. The seats are all on the same incline, and the stage is ever-so-slightly raised, so it can be a little hard to see. Harder to see are the chairs themselves if pass through the curtain once the show has started.
Despite any shortcomings, it is a very cozy, intimate and awesome place. I feel that a lot of the biggest detractors of this venue may not see it for what it is -- a kind of alt-comedy stomping grounds. It isn't the polished club they were expecting, but it doesn't want to be.
Shows:
One of my favourite things about Comedy Bar is the semi-regular schedule, especially the Harold Tuesday 5$, House Wednesday 10$. I frequent both, and both are great (Wednesday's better). The closing team on Wednesday nights, Standards and Practices, are amazing.
Food:
Drinks are reasonably priced (protip: KLB Raspberry Wheat on tap). The pub food is better than your average pub-food. In fact, it borders on real food. Tuesday is wing night. I have not tried any of the flat bread pizzas, but I overheard other frequenters raving about them. That seems like a good sign?
Rating:
5 Stars. I love this joint. I'm going tonight.