At the corner of John and Adelaide, a new gastropub promises to transport its visitors to England. Saint John’s Tavern offers guests a late-night spot to hang out with friends in a low-key, pub atmosphere, with elevated fare that pairs with an expansive drink menu.
Saint John’s is Brian James’ latest venture, adding to his roster of Toronto bars. James is behind two bars just around the corner from his new spot, Melrose on Adelaide and Piccolo. But, Saint John’s is different, with the most expansive food menu and the most casual atmosphere.
James partnered with Chef Kyle Kadas for the British-inspired menu, which boasts the duo’s spins on classics like fish and chips, bangers and mash and, of course, Scotch eggs. Share plates like oysters and vegetarian options like the Welsh Rarebit and Salt & Vinegar Chip Butty round out a menu that also carries a vegan forager’s pie as well as a vegan rendition of fish and chips, called Chish & Fips.
On tap, there’s an array of beers from the UK and around the globe, including UK Premium amber lager and session ale, Storyteller lager, Brickworks dry cider and more, as well as bottled beers with both an international and local selection. There’s a huge wine offering too, alongside a cocktail menu that’s divided into three categories: Heathrows, Classics and Pearsons (a clear homage to the major airports in both London and Toronto).
Within each category, cocktails like a paper plane and a penicillin meet an Oaxaca Old Fashioned (crafted with Jose Tradicional Reposado, Sombra Mezcal Agave and Angostura) and Prince Harry’s Flip (a fusion of Sailor Jerry’s Spice Rum, St. Remy VSOP, Benedictine and Saffron Simple).
Located inside Toronto’s historic brownstones, Saint John’s Tavern is located at 118 John Street.