Silver Rail Tavern

Photo by Alan L Brown - Posted May, 2008

The tavern was located at the northeast corner of Shuter and Yonge Streets under the corner bay window. The 1997 Toronto Historical Board plaque, however, appears to be missing. According to Heritage Toronto, here's the text of the plaque:

Plaque coordinates: 43.65417 -79.37991

The Silver Rail was one of Toronto's first licensed cocktail lounges. It has remained at the same location on Yonge Street since April 2, 1947. Curious Torontonians would ride the streetcar along Yonge Street to catch a glimpse of patrons lined up, waiting to enter. For the first time in Toronto, it was possible for diners to drink a glass of wine or enjoy a cocktail with a fine meal. The interior has remained almost unchanged for 50 years while the face of Yonge Street has changed. The Silver Rail took over the space originally occupied by Muirhead's Grill and Cafeteria. The interior was designed by architect N.A. Armstrong in 1934. The Silver Rail is an early example of mixed use, incorporating a bar upstairs and a restaurant downstairs. It became a central fixture of downtown Toronto night-life.

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Here are the visitors' comments for this page.

Posted January 8, 2011
I remember going to the Silver Rail with my parents for a meal downstairs in the dinning room. It brings back many memories. Also we use to go to Diana's Sweets at Yonge & Queen for lunch on our many shopping trips to Eaton's. Thank you for bringing back such nice memories for me. Kind Regards.
Dayle M.

Posted May 25, 2009
I was a regular at "The Rail" between '74 and '87, while I was working at Simpson's, just down the street. The bar was a great place for a few (or more) relaxing goblets of draught beer, and quiet conversation with friends. It's sad to see that The Rail is now a designer clothing store.
Kieran S. Kerr.

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