Toronto's home of Celtic Music.

Allen's stands as owner John Maxwell's loving tribute to the Irish-American saloons of his native New York. Extensive use of wood, a tin ceiling, oak-plank floor, and warm dark colours give Allen's, the glow of comfortable tradition. Perennially voted Toronto's best bar. Extensive old-fashioned menu. Outdoor dining under century-old willows. Lunch, dinner daily. Entrees $8.50-$19.50. Patio.

Allen's was founded in 1987 and is named after John Maxwell's mentor, Joseph C. Allen. It was Joe Allen with whom he opened the eponymous restaurant at 86 John Street, Toronto, in 1980, as well as the much lamented Italian gem Orso in 1985. Joe Allen Restaurants still exist in New York, Paris, Miami and London, and Orso flourishes in New York, London and Los Angeles.

Joe Allen's very first independent venture (He had previously worked at the legendary P.J. Clarke's) was called Allen's (1960-1964) and was located at 73rd Street and Third Avenue in New York.    Many scenes in the film "How to Murder Your Wife" with Jack Lemon and Terry-Thomas were shot in Allen's, with Joe behind the superb half-round bar. It was a saloon restaurant typical of Irish New York and today's Allen's salutes and honours that predecessor and model.

Allen's Location

A few short steps from Broadview Subway Station,
Allen's is located on the south side of Danforth Avenue; beside The Music Hall.

Allen's doesn't advertise itself as an Irish pub or restaurant, but many of its patrons are drawn there by its Celtic nights featuring traditional Irish music played by bands with their roots in Ireland.