There is something so much more satisfying about finding a place that's hard to find. Bad signage and hidden entries make you feel more "in-the-know". I walked right past Swirl without noticing the odd apartment entry amidst the storefronts on Queen street when I heard my boyfriend behind me say, "the stairs on this place look completely up your alley". He was right.
We walked right up the damask print stairs into the cutest little converted bar above a pet shop. The wine list is well curated and reasonably priced, with amazing appetizers served in mason jars (all made ahead, this place has no kitchen) and great cheese plates direct from the Leslieville Cheese Market. The friendly service and interesting liqueurs (chamomile grappa, pomegranate tequila) ensured that I'll come back again. Perfect date spot.