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Civil Works
Toronto
New Entry
Swanky bars with impressive cocktail programmes have been popping up in the world's best food halls of late, but few are as striking as this sprawling mezzanine with a grand hotel lobby vibe and a gleaming long bar that defines Civil Works. Luxe blue velvet armchairs in the lounge afford a first-rate view of the playful hanging art installation – a series of massive colourful globes that light up the brickwork in the post-industrial Waterworks Food Hall. The view from a barstool reveals just how tight this bar's ambitious cocktail programme truly is, as well as a commitment to pouring a smooth and creamy pint of Guinness that borders on obsession.
Brought to you by the same folks responsible for the occasionally irreverent Civil Liberties, it's no surprise that the menu is full of cheek and double entendre, as well as earnest research into Toronto history. The drinks run the gamut from sturdy house drinks like the Woolnough (Islay single malt, aromatised wines, haskap, vetiver) that pays homage to the building's original architect, J.J. Woolnough, to the Playdate, a mix of cognac, madeira, carrot-coffee cream as well as foam and fizz. Better yet, there's no need to leave the table for snacks, thanks to chefs from the food hall who are only too happy to send up corn empanadas, deep-fried Brussel sprouts and a habit-forming Bao with pulled pork and pineapple.
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