Drinking in Toronto in earlier decades meant spending some time in the snug darkness of maroon-coloured pubs and in the world of hotel bars, where a characteristic machismo pervaded. But, in these post-Carrie-Bradshaw times the fabulous demand new and inventive places to lounge and look good. People will always find new places to drink, and there are certain things that pop up in this city that continue to make it a paradise for the drunk - aside from a still too-early last call.

Glass, for example, offers a new perspective on the traditional lounge experience. Animated in both appearance and location, the Glass location adjusts from its day job as a boardroom to an all-out lounge simply by bringing in the furniture and opening the doors. The cleverly-used space on the 4th floor of the ROM remains uninterrupted by the current construction of the museum (unlike the JKROM on the other side) is an innovative way for the thirsty museum crowd toss back a couple of quick ones after inspecting the current exhibit.

The bar has a playful edge that for me generally comes off more as DIY than corporate (it’s both), not overly ostentatious even though it could’ve been. It’s more of a strong artistic diversion. And while you probably won't find an overflow of the namesake glass (the name refers to a permanent glass floor), you’ll find a secluded bar filled with thirsty downtowners. The nicely-dressed ones will have bypassed the current ROM installation altogether - just straight up to the fourth floor to begin their night of cocktailing.

That shows a true appreciation for Glass, as the lounge takes a bit of work to get to: find parking (Tip: take a cab, this area has the worst car/parking ratio of the city); maneuver through museum to elevator; ride elevator to 4th floor; drink.

While your at it, check your calendar; if it’s not Friday, you’re not drinking (legally) at a museum tonight. Friday is the only night of the week Glass is open, being the ROM’s “no admission” day, which, of course, facilitates entry of the actual museum In order to then make your way to your cocktail utopia.

Music is DJ driven; Vinyl Factory has been spinning the latest music in all genres, as well as the dance classics. Doors open early (6:00 p.m.) but they close early too. (11:00 p.m.). Basically the dress code can best be described as "Gallery-going chic”. For the most part, Glass offers the feel of a small bar that may need word of mouth to grow (It’s been open one year, and did you know about it?), but if clubgoers take the journey they should end up being pleased. And for anybody who’s a fan of museums, and drinking in cool places, Glass should be a greatly entertaining trip that passes an hour and a half very solidly.

At least that's the message reinforced by Glass’s one-night-a-week existence, which carries a strong enough substantial payoff to make you forgive the lounge’s transient lifestyle. DE


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Reader Reviews

has potential
F Corgan, Toronto
June 10, 2003
I love the idea of Glass. Much-needed, inspired music & drink to curl into on Friday after a full work-week. However, the execution was monumentally disappointing. When I asked if the bright white lighting could be muted, there was no ability to dim. Strike 1 for the atmosphere. Fine, candles will do. Next, the menu. Out of politeness & ferocious hunger my stomach does not permit me to skip the stupidest menu I have ever seen, so I pick the least frightening item -- or so I think. The antipasti arrives in a tumbler glass (you look stupid trying to "get at" stuff) with one long, mocking piece of bread. Skip the food. Strike 2. The drinks were acceptable enough. If the atmosphere improves, this place definitely has potential. I may try it again in about 6 months.


Reader Reviews
Peter Liepens, Toronto
Feb 23, 2003
Excellent food and atmosphere. They must extend the hours and maybe consider opening on Saturday night as well. With a little advertising, Glass could be the hottest place in town. Kudos to Glassman in asembling a perfect menue with museum-like presentation of each dish.


Hard to find
Larry h., Toronto, ON
Dec., 14, 2002
I confess, I didn't read the hours of operation (Friday only). So our party ws a bit lost on how to arrive at Glass. Alas, we re-attempted on Friday, and was actually a nice spot. Just a little hard to find.


hotter than souvlaki
Randy Trellis, Toronto, On
Dec 1 2002
Nice looking people, nice girls to, they make me feel young again. I felt like 18 year old man, good enough to make woman hotter than souvlaki. Anyway, I struggle with having to leave by 10pm. If Glass wants to be a full fledged lounge, it has to have the hours.


Sweet little room
P Gynaikes,Toronto, On
Dec 2, 2002
It's not for all the 22 year-old club kids, glass is more for the post gallery goer. It’s fun though. It's somewhere to go, have a drink, maybe relax your butt a bit, and have a good time. Yeah, it gets crowded, and you may have to wait a bit for a drink, but it’s a sweet little room.