Tucked away in Cabbagetown is an important piece of Toronto’s nightclub history. It’s not a former gay club, rave venue or stage where queer rock bands used to play; instead, imagine a sultry lounge where legendary diva Billie Holiday sang while mob boss Al Capone sipped martinis. Welcome to the Winchester Kitchen and Bar, which has a past so cool you can’t but help fall in love with the second-floor space the minute you walk in.

Last night, as the crowd sipped on martinis and nibbled on appetizers, like their coveted pumpkin risotto mini cakes and bite-sized cabbage rolls, they took in the venue’s newly renovated digs. The space has a good buzz going, so much so that Shawn Hewson of Bustle made a rare appearance at the opening. New owners Anesti and Mareesha (below) along with chef Binh An Ngyuen (below) have transformed the Winchester into a trendy spot that’s just blocks away from the Village. Sitting right off Parliament on Winchester Ave, this lounge is sure to become a favourite spot for anyone who wants to mix history and great food with a new vibe.

winchesterkitchen.com

Photos by Mikey Sin