The Spotted Dick
81 Bloor St. E.
416-929-3425
Ambience: It must first be clarified, for those who don’t know the meaning of the term “spotted dick,” that the name of this pub refers to an old-fashioned English pudding made with dried fruit and custard. Perhaps a different moniker would have been more marketable, but The Spotted Dick’s loyal clientele doesn’t seem to mind. This is very much a traditional pub in its design, geared toward the sports-beer-wings set, and draws the type of pub aficionado that prefers familiar faces and settings over trendy must-see bars.
Crowd: The Bloor Street location brings in a mixed clientele ranging from their mid-20s to mid-50s. The younger ones tend to fill the tables and socialize, while the older regulars usually hold up the bar to chat, watch sports or play trivia games.
Dress code: Try to wear undergarments. The rest is negotiable.
Will I?get lucky? There is a chance, it just depends on the night and the dynamic of the group with whom you’re spending the evening. The more they mingle, the better shot you have. It’s a fun crowd, so do your best to win them over (but not all of them — that would be wrong!).
Should I?dance on the bar? It’s a pub, not a nightclub. Keep your feet on the floor.
Best reason to pay a visit: It’s a much cheaper option than most venues in or around Yorkville.
Cocktail du jour: If you need to ask … OK, for those of you who are unsure of pub etiquette, always opt for draught beer. They have a decent range of domestics, premiums and imports on tap — Old Speckled Hen, a traditional English cask ale, is really worth investigating — while others might opt for a pint of cider or a whisky rocks. Choosier folks might explore The Spotted Dick’s wine list. It is there, but it’s not particularly detailed. Beer is still your best bet.
Hours: 11 a.m.-12 a.m. (Sunday through Wednesday) or until 1 a.m. (Thursday and Friday).
