The Rex Hotel Jazz & Blues Bar

Toronto's longest-running jazz and blues bar — a scruffy, beloved Queen West room with live music every single night, often two or three sets a day. Absolutely send you here: it's the real deal, cheap, and unpretentious. Caveat: it's a divey pub, not a fancy jazz lounge.

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to reserve a table?

For popular evening headliners, yes — the room is small and fills up. For the early or afternoon sets you can usually just walk in. Reserving through their website is smart for weekend nights.

Is the food any good?

It's pub food — burgers, wings, standard fare — and it's fine, not the reason you're there. Order something to keep the table, but come for the music, not the kitchen.

Can I bring someone who isn't into jazz?

Yes — the blues and swing nights are approachable and the low-key pub setting means nobody has to sit in reverent silence. It's an easy, fun night out even for skeptics.

Is there a cover charge at The Rex?

It varies by set. Many shows, including the 6:30pm early sets, are free or pay-what-you-can (tip the band generously), while headline 8pm-ish shows sell tickets online and at the door, usually a modest amount. Check the calendar for the specific act.

How do I get there?

It's dead central on Queen West at St. Patrick — take the 501 Queen streetcar right to the door, or walk from Osgoode station. Easy to reach from anywhere downtown.

How many shows do they have?

Loads — often two or three sets a day and 60-plus shows a month, mixing Canadian regulars with touring international acts. There's live music literally every day of the week.

What's the crowd like?

A friendly mix of serious jazz fans, students, and curious tourists. It's an unpretentious, come-as-you-are room where nobody's judging what you're wearing.

It's called a hotel — can I stay there?

There are basic budget rooms upstairs, but people come for the bar, not the accommodations. Set expectations low on the lodging; it's a music venue first.

Nearby in Ask Toronto

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• Art Gallery of OntarioMuseum0.47 km · 6 min walk
• Nathan Phillips SquareAttraction0.51 km · 6 min walk
• Textile Museum of CanadaMuseum0.51 km · 6 min walk
• Alo RestaurantRestaurant0.61 km · 8 min walk