Toronto, often hailed as one of North America’s most cosmopolitan cities, boasts a rich and diverse entertainment scene. A notable jewel in this tapestry of entertainment is the city’s thriving comedy ecosystem. Toronto’s comedy scene is just the beginning of your nighttime journey in the city. Delve into our ultimate guide for the best things to do in Toronto at night, and discover a world of vibrant nightlife and entertainment. From world-class stand-ups to promising local talent, Toronto’s comedy venues offer a hearty laugh for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of improv, sketch comedy, or classic stand-up, the metropolis provides ample venues to cater to your comedic tastes. This guide seeks to shine a light on 15 of the very best comedy clubs in Toronto, ensuring that whether you’re a resident or a visitor, you’re always just a short trip away from a great comedy experience.
Yuk Yuk’s Stand-Up Comedy
Yuk Yuk’s offers a classic comedy club feel with dim lighting and intimate seating, ensuring every seat in the house is a good one. While the name suggests stand-up, and that’s primarily their focus, the club is versatile, sometimes hosting other comedic performances. Known far and wide for hosting top-tier comedians, both local talents and international acts have graced their stage.
Location
Address: 224 Richmond St W, Toronto, ON M5V 1V6
Neighborhood: Entertainment District
Amenities and Drinks
- Drinks & Menu Highlights: Yuk Yuk’s has a full-service bar offering everything from beers to cocktails. For those feeling peckish, a light menu with classic bar snacks is available.
- Special Events or Nights: Keep an eye out for their amateur nights, where budding comedians take to the stage to test new material.
- Bar Features: Apart from the usual fare, their signature cocktails, inspired by famous comedians, are a must-try.
The Second City Toronto
The Second City provides a lively and vibrant environment, reflecting its legacy in the comedy scene. Renowned globally for its sketch comedy and improv shows, The Second City Toronto continues this tradition with stellar performances night after night. Apart from their regular shows, The Second City is also known for its comedy school, grooming the next generation of comedic talents.
Location
Address: 51 Mercer St, Toronto, ON M5V 9G9
Neighborhood: Entertainment District
Amenities and Drinks
- Drinks & Menu Highlights: With a bar stocked with cocktails and a selection of snacks, patrons can enjoy their drinks with a side of humor. The “Improv Punch” is a house favorite.
- Special Events or Nights: The Second City frequently holds themed nights, and special events, including shows by their advanced students, are a real treat.
- Bar Features: A cozy bar area allows attendees to mingle before or after shows, sipping on cocktails inspired by iconic sketches and comedians.
Comedy Bar
Comedy Bar, as the name suggests, places a significant emphasis on both humor and a relaxed, bar-centric atmosphere. Expect a casual setting that fosters easy laughs and interactions. The club is versatile in its offerings, with multiple stages hosting a mix of stand-up, improv, and even comedic plays. Multiple stages mean a variety of shows on any given night, catering to different comedic preferences.
Location
Address: 945 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M6H 1L5
Neighborhood: Bloorcourt Village
Amenities and Drinks
- Drinks & Menu Highlights: Boasting a full drink menu, Comedy Bar offers craft beers, cocktails, and a few quirky drink specials inspired by famous comedians. Their nachos and sliders have received favorable reviews from regular patrons.
- Special Events or Nights: Open mics and themed nights, such as character comedy evenings, are staples in their weekly line-up.
Absolute Comedy
Absolute Comedy offers an intimate setting with tables closely packed, allowing guests to be a part of the action. While primarily known for its stand-up performances, Absolute Comedy sets itself apart with its consistent offer of open mic nights, giving rising talents a platform.
Location
Address: 2335 Yonge St, Toronto, ON M4P 2C8
Neighborhood: Midtown Toronto
Amenities and Drinks
- Drinks & Menu Highlights: Apart from the standard drink menu with beers and cocktails, the club also offers a dine-in experience. Favorites include the chicken wings and the Absolute Comedy burger.
- Special Events or Nights: Open mic nights are a regular occurrence, giving newbies and seasoned comics alike a chance to test new material. Themed nights and special headliner weekends are also part of their rotation.
Bad Dog Theatre
Bad Dog Theatre sports a laid-back, intimate vibe. Dimmed lights and close-set seating make it perfect for the audience to get absorbed in the performances. As the name suggests, Bad Dog Theatre is renowned for its improv shows. They have cultivated a reputation as one of the go-to places in Toronto for top-notch improvisational comedy.
Location
Address: Upstairs, 392 Spadina Ave. Unit 2, Toronto, ON M5T 0G5, Canada
Neighborhood: Bloorcourt Village
Amenities and Drinks
- Drinks & Menu Highlights: While they might not have a sprawling menu, they do have a selection of beers, wines, and non-alcoholic beverages. A few light snacks are also available to keep hunger at bay.
- Special Events or Nights: Beyond their regular improv nights, they frequently host themed improv events and workshops for those interested in learning the art of improv.
Rivoli Backroom
The Rivoli Backroom blends the classic aura of an old-school comedy club with a dash of modern charm. It’s a place where the brick walls seem to resonate with the laughter of decades past. Rivoli is famous for its stand-up comedy nights, particularly for hosting top-tier comedians from both the local and international scene.
Location
Address: 334 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M5V 2A2
Neighborhood: Queen Street West
Amenities and Drinks
- Drinks & Menu Highlights: Rivoli Backroom boasts a full-service bar. From crafted beers to an extensive list of cocktails, there’s something for everyone. The “Comedy Colada” is a known favorite among regulars. Food-wise, their sliders and finger foods come highly recommended.
- Special Events or Nights: While stand-up dominates the scene, Rivoli also occasionally hosts open mics, giving a platform to budding talents and those wanting to test new material.
The Social Capital Theatre
Situated above the renowned Danforth Music Hall, The Social Capital Theatre has a cozy, indie vibe with wooden floors and an intimate setting that makes audiences feel connected with the performers. While The Social Capital hosts a blend of comedy genres, it’s particularly known for hosting top-tier comedians, ensuring a quality laugh every time.
Location
Address: 154 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4K 1N1
Neighborhood: Greektown on Danforth
Amenities and Drinks
Drinks & Menu Highlights: They have a full-service bar, offering a range of beers, wines, and spirits. While they don’t focus heavily on food, their drink specials, especially their house cocktails, are a hit.
Special Events or Nights: Regular open mics and themed comedy nights keep the calendar bustling. Whether it’s an improv night or a solo stand-up special, there’s always something brewing here.
Ossington Comedy
Ossington Comedy gives off a hip, urban vibe. Its raw aesthetic with exposed bricks and dim lighting adds to the charm, making it a favorite spot among the younger crowd. This club is known for hosting top-tier comedians, both local and international. Whether you’re into quirky sketches or straight-up stand-up, Ossington ensures a memorable night.
Location
Address: 61 Ossington Ave, Toronto, ON M6J 2Z2
Neighborhood: West Queen West
Amenities and Drinks
- Drinks & Menu Highlights: With a full-service bar, Ossington Comedy is well-stocked with craft beers, signature cocktails, and a small selection of finger foods to nibble on.
- Special Events or Nights: They frequently hold open mics, giving a platform to emerging talents. Additionally, themed nights, such as “Rapid Fire Comedy,” provide a unique comedic experience.
The Corner Comedy Club
With its dim lights and intimate seating, The Corner Comedy Club offers a cozy environment where laughter resonates in every corner. The brick walls and tight-knit space give a classic comedy cellar feel. While they host a range of comedic genres, stand-up is their primary focus. This venue is particularly known for hosting top-tier comedians from across the globe.
Location
Address: 243 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M5V 1Z4, Canada
Neighborhood: Entertainment District
Amenities and Drinks
- Drinks & Menu Highlights: Their full-service bar is stocked with craft beers, quality spirits, and a selection of wines. While their food menu is concise, their nachos and wings are a hit among patrons.
- Special Events or Nights: Regular open mic nights give budding comedians a chance to shine. Apart from this, their weekend comedy specials are a big draw.
East End Comedy Revue
East End Comedy Revue, true to its name, has a lively vibe reflecting the vibrant East End of Toronto. The club boasts a relaxed atmosphere, making it perfect for an evening of chuckles. The club welcomes a variety of comedic acts, but it’s especially known for hosting top-tier comedians, guaranteeing a quality show every time.
Location
Neighborhood: East End
Amenities and Drinks
- Drinks & Menu Highlights: Their full-service bar offers a wide variety of cocktails that are both classic and unique. For those feeling peckish, their sliders and fries are highly recommended.
- Special Events or Nights: They have open mics every Wednesday, providing an opportunity for emerging talents. Additionally, they host themed comedy nights, such as “Comedy Roasts” and “Retro Comedy Nights.”
Comedy Kapow
Comedy Kapow provides its audience with an energetic and exhilarating experience. The venue is designed to promote an intimate connection between the audience and comedians, making for a memorable comedic experience. While they provide a platform for a range of comedic styles, their mainstay is stand-up comedy. Comedy Kapow is recognized for showcasing top-tier comedic talent.
Location
Address: 123 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4K 1N2, Canada
Amenities and Drinks
- Drinks & Menu Highlights: The full-service bar at Comedy Kapow serves a range of beverages, from craft beers to signature cocktails.
- Special Events or Nights: Regular open mic nights offer a platform for emerging comedians to showcase their talent. Additionally, special comedy events and themed nights ensure that there’s always something new for regular patrons.
Underground Comedy Club
As the name suggests, Underground Comedy Club provides a unique underground vibe that is both cozy and eclectic. Its dim lighting and comfortable seating arrangement add to the intimate atmosphere. The club predominantly features stand-up comedy and is well-regarded for hosting some of the top-tier comedians in the industry.
Location
Address: 670 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M4M 1G4
Neighborhood: Leslieville
Amenities and Drinks
- Drinks & Menu Highlights: Their full-service bar is known for its vast selection, catering to both drink enthusiasts and casual patrons alike. The club has been known for its curated cocktail menu.
- Special Events or Nights: The Underground Comedy Club is famous for its open mic nights, where fresh talents get a chance to shine. Their themed nights, like “Retro Comedy” and “New Talent Showcase,” are also highly popular among regulars.
Joke Party
Joke Party offers an experience that is both upscale yet relaxed. The interior is elegantly designed but the atmosphere is inviting and full of laughter. This club mainly focuses on stand-up comedy and has a reputation for featuring top-tier comedians, both emerging and established.
Amenities and Drinks
- Drinks & Menu Highlights: The full-service bar offers a selection of signature cocktails, craft beers, and wine. The club is known for its extensive drink menu.
- Special Events or Nights: Regularly scheduled open mic nights and themed events, such as “Ladies’ Comedy Night,” provide constant variety for patrons.
The John Candy Box Theatre
Named in honor of the legendary John Candy, this theatre has an old-world charm mixed with modern amenities. The environment feels both nostalgic and contemporary, appealing to a broad spectrum of comedy fans. While the theatre showcases various comedic forms, it is particularly known for hosting top-tier comedians, bringing quality and diversity to its stage.
Location
Address: 1 York Street Toronto Ontario M5J 0B6
Neighborhood: Entertainment District
Amenities and Drinks
- Drinks & Menu Highlights: Though a full-service bar is present, the venue doesn’t particularly focus on food.
- Special Events or Nights: Apart from the usual comedy shows, the theatre often hosts special events like comedy festivals, workshops, and themed nights that add variety to the comedy scene in Toronto.
I Heart Jokes
“I Heart Jokes” embraces a contemporary setting, combining cozy aesthetics with modern design elements. Patrons can expect a laid-back environment where the focus is squarely on the comedic experience. Primarily focused on stand-up comedy, “I Heart Jokes” has earned a reputation for showcasing both budding talents and top-tier comedians. This blend of emerging and established acts ensures a fresh and varied lineup every week.
Location
Address: 603 Markham Road, Toronto, Ontario.
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Amenities and Drinks
- Drinks & Menu Highlights: Featuring a full-service bar, “I Heart Jokes” serves a mix of classic cocktails and unique concoctions.
- Special Events or Nights: In addition to its regular shows, “I Heart Jokes” hosts special events like open mic nights, where budding comedians can try out new material, and themed nights that celebrate various comedic genres and styles.
Best Days to Visit
Weekends: Comedy clubs tend to be more lively and packed during weekends, especially Friday and Saturday nights. This is when you’re most likely to catch the top-billed comedians and special performances.
Weekdays: If you’re someone who prefers a slightly quieter environment or looking for a spontaneous night out during the week, many comedy clubs also host events on weekdays. It might be easier to get a reservation, but it’s always a good idea to check the lineup in advance to ensure there’s a show you’re interested in.
Special Events: Keep an eye out for unique events like comedy festivals, themed nights, or special guest performances. These can occur on any day of the week and often attract a significant crowd. Cap off an evening of stand-up or improv with a visit to some of Toronto’s most beloved Christmas events and holiday activities, where the joy and merriment continue long after the final joke has been told.
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What to Expect
General Atmosphere: Comedy clubs generally offer a cozy and intimate atmosphere, ensuring every audience member feels a part of the performance. Dim lighting, a close-knit seating arrangement, and an ambiance filled with laughter are typical features.
Crowd: Depending on the day and the performing comedian, you can expect a diverse crowd ranging from regulars to tourists to comedy enthusiasts. Weekend shows might get a bit crowded, so it’s advisable to book in advance.
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Key Takeaways
- Toronto boasts an eclectic mix of comedy clubs, each with its own unique ambiance and specialization, including stand-up comedy.
- Many clubs, such as “The John Candy Box Theatre,” “I Heart Jokes,” and “Joke Party,” are renowned for hosting top-tier comedians, ensuring a quality entertainment experience.
- Each club has its distinct neighborhood setting, providing varying experiences for visitors. Whether in a bustling downtown or a cozy nook, location plays a vital role in shaping your comedy night.
- A majority of these clubs, like “Underground Comedy Club” and “Comedy Kapow,” offer full-service bars with must-try drinks and occasional food specialties, enhancing the overall experience.
- Keep an eye out for special events, themed nights, and open mics which offer a platform for budding talent and unique comedic styles.
- Weekends are the peak times for comedy club visits. However, special events can fall on any day. Understanding parking and transit options can significantly improve the convenience of the visit.
- The ambiance at these clubs is typically intimate, with dim lighting and close-knit seating arrangements, providing an immersive comedic experience.
FAQs
- Are there any clubs specifically for improv comedy?
Yes, clubs like “Bad Dog Theatre” specialize in improv comedy.
- Are there any clubs with themed nights or open mics?
Yes, many clubs host special events, themed nights, and open mics for budding talent. If the stand-up acts at Toronto’s comedy clubs inspire you to grab the mic yourself, our list of the most popular karaoke bars in Toronto offers the perfect stage for your singing debut.
- What’s the general atmosphere at these clubs?
The ambiance is typically intimate, featuring dim lighting and close-knit seating arrangements.
- Do I need to book tickets in advance?
It’s often recommended due to the popularity of some clubs and events.
- Are there age restrictions for these comedy clubs?
Many clubs have age restrictions, especially if they serve alcohol. It’s best to check beforehand.
- How late do the shows typically run?
Showtimes vary, but many clubs have performances that run into the late evening.
- Is there a dress code for these comedy clubs?
Most clubs have a casual dress code, but it’s always good to check in advance.
- Can I perform at one of these clubs?
Some clubs host open mics, providing a platform for emerging talent. Checking with individual clubs is advisable.
- Which clubs offer a full-service bar?
Clubs like “Underground Comedy Club” and “Comedy Kapow” are mentioned to have full-service bars. Looking for the perfect spot to discuss the night’s best jokes over a drink? Discover our selection of the best bars in Toronto, the ideal destinations to round off an evening of comedy and fun.
- Are there any comedy clubs with outdoor seating or shows?
The provided content doesn’t specify outdoor arrangements. Check directly with the clubs of interest. Elevate your experience literally by visiting some of the city’s premier rooftop bars, where the views are as spectacular as the comedy was hilarious.