Toronto’s Bar St. Lo Is Shutting Down for Good This April
Bar St. Lo, a neighborhood restaurant and bar located on Market Street, is officially closing for good by the end of the month. Just steps from the St. Lawrence Market, the spot earned a steady local following thanks to its seasonal Canadian fare and proximity to one of the city’s most historic districts. Although the owners have not given a detailed explanation, Toronto’s changing regulations on restaurant licensing and zoning appear to have influenced the decision.
A Longstanding Market-Side Fixture Says Goodbye
The restaurant is best known for incorporating fresh produce from the nearby market into its dishes, a detail that shaped its small but rotating menu. The vibe was casual but thoughtful, offering comfort food without overcomplication. In 2024, the bar added a bottomless brunch offering on weekends, drawing a reliable brunch crowd.
Changing City Rules Bring Pressure
As of January 2025, the City of Toronto introduced a series of bylaw updates that impact bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues. All licensed establishments are now required to convert to a new license type when renewing. Some of the updates also changed the permitted locations and business types allowed in certain neighborhoods.
Many restaurant and bar owners are still adjusting to the administrative and financial implications of these new rules. While it’s not the only reason Bar St. Lo is closing, the timing lines up with when many businesses are reassessing their operations. The restaurant had carved out a quiet but consistent space in the city’s food scene, and its departure is one more sign of how Toronto’s hospitality industry is shifting.
Go Out With A Bang
You can visit Bar St. Lo until Sunday April 27th at 26 Market Street. The bar is open 5pm till late, so you can enjoy one last night out at this neighborhood gem. “We’re thankful for everyone who supported us over the years, from regulars to first-time guests,” a Bar St. Lo team member shared in a statement posted online.
Bar St. Lo’s closing may not dominate city headlines, but it signals something bigger. Toronto’s small businesses are facing real decisions right now, and each closing adds to the story. There’s still hope for bars in Toronto though. Check out these 8 Toronto bars who ranked among the best in North America.
More…
