Michelin-star chef Patrick Kriss has opened Evangeline, an intimate rooftop bar at Ace Hotel Toronto. Sitting 14 stories high, Evangeline is an 80-seat lounge with sweeping views of the surrounding skyline.
Evangeline was designed by the acclaimed studio Shim-Sutcliffe architects, with the interior done by Atelier Ace. A cozy indoor seating area spreads across the floor, offering two fireplaces and a sprawling outdoor patio. Similar to Kriss’s ventures at Alder and the Lobby Bar, the award-winning chef helm Evangeline’s menu, which consists of snacks and small plates.
The bar’s name celebrates the first feature film out of Canada. Released in 1914, this silent film follows a tattered love story full of political distress and peace turned to expulsion. The atmosphere surrounding the bar is influenced by the creative spark found on the silver screen.
Bookended by warming fireplaces, Evangeline takes a friendly approach to sophisticated lounging. MSDS from Toronto created the custom lighting fixtures for the bar, and one of the fireplaces is framed by a sculpture from Montreal-based ceramic artist David Umemoto.
A lush display of plants is found indoors and outdoors, where furnishings are designed to adopt a casual, contemporary tone. The outdoor deck faces west and south, offering optimal views of downtown Toronto, glorious sunsets, and St. Andrew’s Playground Park as it evolves over the seasons.
Evangeline’s menu is inspired by cocktail parties, focusing on small plates that are delectable and easily shared among friends. Expect charcuterie boards, chips with the dip, ’nduja-stuffed olives with halloumi, shrimp cocktail, and freshly shucked oysters, among similar plates.
From the bar comes unique craft cocktails, including The Hummingbird, Punch Lafitte, and Meiji Restoration. The Hummingbird combines vodka with melon liquor before Manuka honey, lime, bitters, and cava for some added flair. Meiji Restoration is a cocktail for those that are humming and hawing over the latest whiskey trends from Japan. Japanese Whiskey is paired with Cocchi Rosa, plum wine, and yuzu bitters for an enthralling experience from East Asia.
Ace Toronto has a longtime commitment to supporting local artists and cultural and entertainment communities. Continuing this trend, Evangeline is partnering with a talented cast of DJs, record label producers, and dance party promoters to build a year-round social calendar. The space will also be home to a rotating art gallery of Canadian artists.
Located on the 14th floor of the Ace Hotel Toronto at 51 Camden St., Evangeline is open from Wednesday to Saturday from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m., with food service available until 12 a.m.