Toronto’s Gerrard East strip is one of the city’s most vibrant areas for nightlife. And there’s one standout spot right in the middle of the action: Pinkerton’s Snack Bar.
Now celebrating its 10-year anniversary, this east-end bar and restaurant is reflecting on the evolution of the neighbourhood, the energy of Toronto nightlife, and what it means to survive and thrive in a city that’s constantly changing.
Known for its high-energy atmosphere, killer cocktails, and snack-heavy menu, Pinkerton’s has become a go-to for everything from casual drinks to wild nights out with friends. In fact, it was described by The Globe and Mail as “properly loud and raucous” and “the east end’s most happening bar”.
“We’ve never really celebrated Pinkerton’s birthday in previous years. However, with this being our 10-year anniversary, we are launching our new $10 Happy Hour Menu and also celebrating with a big blowout party on Tuesday, June 30th,” says owner Marc Baglio.
That Gerrard East flare
Over the years, Gerrard East itself has evolved into a major destination for food and nightlife in Toronto, with independent restaurants, bars, and other gems helping shape the neighbourhood’s identity.
“Gerrard East has really seen a lot of great change and development over the past decade. I’ve always loved the vibe and the aesthetic of this part of town. We were so enamored by the neighbourhood that we opened up Poor Romeo in late 2017 and a year later, the Vatican Gift Shop. Such a great privilege to be a part of the ever-changing landscape of Gerrard East,” said Baglio.
Pinkerton’s is stepping into its next chapter with new chef Alex Molitz and sous chef Justin Lask, who are helping bring something fresh to the kitchen. Expect everything from little snacks like Crispy Chilli Shrimp to big shareable snack plates like the Braised Pork Pancake or the Five Spice Fried Chicken. Chef Molitz also brings his signature Charred Bone Marrow dish with a Pinkerton’s twist. Steamed, then toasted with peanuts and cilantro salad. There are also Bao Buns, designed to pair perfectly with the menu’s cocktails.
Ever-changing menu and new cocktails
Speaking of cocktails, you can enjoy house favourites like Pink’s Paloma, or the Cigarette After Sex, a recent creation from bar manager Nolan Tait, balancing smoky blended Scotch with coffee & chocolate liquor. You can also order a custom cocktail tailored just for you by the talented bartending team. Just tell them what you like (sweet, sour, maybe even spicy) and let them work their magic!
Baglio gives an insight into the menu, which he says is always changing. “Upon opening it was strictly the classics to later leaning more towards signature and freestyle cocktails. Post pandemic saw us launching a line of in-house canned cocktails, while the last few years there’s been a focus towards more non-alcoholic beverages. With the addition of Chef Alex the snack menu has evolved as well. Although still fun and playful there is a more elevated approach to Chef’s techniques which shine through in his iteration of the menu.”
Celebrate 10 years of Pinkerton’s
Want to bring a taste of Pinkerton’s home? Look no further than Dynamite Kid Cocktails, the bar’s line of expertly crafted ready-to-drink cocktails. Created in collaboration with acclaimed bartender Joao Machado, the collection includes a Nitro Espresso Martini, Sherry + Tonic, Aperol Spritz, and French 75, offering a bar-quality cocktail experience straight from the can. Pick them up in-store or order online through Pinkerton’s Online Shop.
In a bustling city where restaurants can come and go fast, lasting 10 years is no small feat. But Pinkerton’s has managed to stand out — and now, it’s going to continue to do what it does best: serve good food, fun drinks, and give Toronto’s east end a place to get a little loud.
So, whether you want to stop in for bao buns and cocktails, catch up with friends over late-night snacks, or let the bartender whip up something custom that could turn into your new favourite drink, be sure to check out Pinkerton’s Snack Bar. Make a reservation or learn more over on the Pinkerton’s website.