Requiring a mosey down an alleyway to get in — complete with a sign that flips between “ping” and “pong” — SPiN Toronto feels like an illicit pleasure from the get-go. The subterranean social club spans two rooms, with picnic tables sharing space with ping-pong tables, while artwork from both New York-based and local graffiti artists dot the walls. Denizens include basement-dwelling ping-pong players in addition to others who are just there for kicks.
Our pick of the cocktail litter is the Bubbly Sue ($12.40). Matching cava with black raspberry Chambord liqueur, the drink is finished with blackberries and topped with an orange wedge.
After a vigorous bout of scrambling for vivid orange ping-pong balls, this is just the trick. And for those who need an extra boost, the kitchen is open until midnight daily.
SPiN Toronto, 461 King St. W., 416-599-7746