About Rivoli Toronto
The Rivoli is a multi-level performance venue on Queen Street West in downtown Toronto. It combines a restaurant, bar, pool hall and concert space under one roof (www.rivolitoronto.com ). The ground-floor dining room seats roughly 50 people and showcases local art (www.rivolitoronto.com ). Toward the rear is the intimate “Back Room” – a general-admission concert hall (standing capacity around 240) where lights and music bring diverse acts. Upstairs is a pub-style lounge (with a dozen pool tables and arcade games (www.rivolitoronto.com )) and its own bar. Despite modern updates, the Rivoli’s brick-and-tin-ceiling interior still feels classic (it originally opened in 1911 as the People’s Theatre (www.blogto.com )). Reborn as a live music club in 1982, it became a defining fixture of Queen West’s vibrant arts scene (www.blogto.com ). In its storied history the space hosted many famous names – Gord Downie, Arcade Fire and Sarah Harmer among them (exclaim.ca ) – and even saw the first-ever gig of Canadian alt-rockers Blue Rodeo in 1985 (www.blogto.com ). It’s also known for comedy nights (the Kids in the Hall and Robin Williams performed here) and for budding musicians: pop star Feist used to tend bar at the Rivoli before hitting it big (exclaim.ca ). Today the Rivoli bills itself as an inclusive cultural hub (www.rivolitoronto.com ). Its hardwood floors, rich red curtains and warm amber lighting contribute to an “aesthetically pleasing” vintage vibe (exclaim.ca ), setting it apart as a unique piece of Toronto nightlife history.
Events and Programming
Rivoli’s calendar is eclectic. The Back Room hosts live music of all genres – indie rock, folk, country, hip-hop, world, EDM and more – almost nightly. Local singer-songwriters and touring indie artists are featured in series like the monthly “Sundown Sessions,” while some nights spotlight dance or electronic acts. Comedy shows are equally common (echoing the club’s tradition of stand-up nights). A weekly trivia night and Sunday pool-hall jams add to the mix. Ticket prices depend on the act: local bands often charge a modest cover ($10–15), whereas headliners and festival events run $30–40 or more. Notably, some special events are even free – for example a Canadian Music Week showcase in 2024 was advertised with no admission fee (www.thesoundcafe.com ). In general, concerts, dance parties and comedy shows are the most common events (www.rivolitoronto.com ), and many shows sell out quickly. The venue’s state-of-the-art PA (Yorkville speakers and monitors with subs) and 18 stage lights support both rocking concerts and intimate acoustic sets. In short, the Rivoli’s programming is a microcosm of Toronto’s diversity – “as diverse as the city it calls home,” hosting everything from grassroots music to comedy nights (www.rivolitoronto.com ).
Tickets and Booking
Tickets to Rivoli events are usually sold in advance online. Check the Rivoli’s official event listings or authorized ticketing sites (Ticketmaster, Eventbrite, etc.) for on-sale dates. Popular shows can sell out quickly, so it’s wise to buy early or sign up for the venue’s mailing list for presale alerts. There is no permanent box office on site, so same-day tickets (if any remain) are typically released just before doors open. Plan to arrive early – the Rivoli notes that “Doors open 30 minutes before showtime” (www.rivolitoronto.com ) – which also helps you secure a good spot or pick up tickets at will-call.
Seating and Layout
The Rivoli’s main concert area (“Back Room”) is long and narrow, with the stage at the far end. One wall (facing stage) has a single row of bench seating (exclaim.ca ); otherwise the floor is general admission. On the opposite wall (near the front) are the sound/lighting booth and a merch table (exclaim.ca ). Behind the stage is a small green room and a second washroom. Because there’s no balcony, everyone stands on the main floor. To get a great view, aim for center front if attending early. If you prefer to sit, the fixed side benches are the only guaranteed seats (exclaim.ca ); often shows will simply sell out standing-room tickets. The restaurant/ dining area (ground floor front) and the upstairs pool hall (two flights up) are separate spaces. Overall, the venue is efficiently laid out – just avoid standing directly behind the PA speakers or the mixing booth (they’re near the front), as those spots are a bit loud and obstructed. Note also that the venue is fully Wi-Fi enabled (events list “Wi-Fi available” on the venue specs (www.tagvenue.com )) and is air-conditioned, so it’s comfortable year-round.
Getting There and Parking
The Rivoli’s address is 334 Queen Street West (corner of Bathurst/Queen), in Toronto’s Queen West arts district. Public transit is the easiest way: any streetcar along Queen West will do. In particular, the 501 and 504 Queen streetcars stop at Queen & Spadina (just a 2-minute walk) (moovitapp.com ), and the 7 Bathurst bus stops at Queen & Bathurst (about an 8-10 minute walk). The nearest subway station is Osgoode on Line 1 (from there take either the 501 or walk north to Queen). If you drive, note there’s no venue parking. Street parking on Queen is limited and metered. Paid parking lots a few blocks north are your best bet – for example, a municipal garage at 277 Wellington St. W. is about a 5-minute walk (www.toronto-theatre.com ). (Parking apps like SpotHero can help you find a spot in advance.) Rideshare drop-offs can use the Queen St. curb in front of the venue. After late shows, taxis and ride-shares are plentiful; the nightlife corridor is well lit, so walking home toward Spadina or Bathurst afterward is also an option.
Inside the Venue
Expect a casual – though well-designed – club atmosphere. Upon entry staff will check IDs (19+ only (www.rivolitoronto.com )) and scan tickets. The interior is dimly lit with spotlighted stage, giving a warm glow against dark wood floors and exposed brick walls (exclaim.ca ). There are two fully stocked bars: one near the front (adjacent to the dining room) and one by the stage. In fact, the front dining room has its own bar which you pass on the way to the Back Room (www.rivolitoronto.com ). Beers and cocktails are served nightly; Exclaim notes the menu features pricey “signature” cocktails (~$12) and fusion-style dishes (exclaim.ca ). The kitchen serves Pad Thai, “Wookie Balls” (spiced Jamaican fritters) and other fare (www.rivolitoronto.com ), so you can also dine there before shows. Uniquely, the upstairs pub/lounge offers fun extras – it has a dozen pool tables (recently re-felted) and even a photo booth and snow-cone machine added by the owners (exclaim.ca ). Two sets of restrooms are available (one at the front entrance, one behind the stage) (exclaim.ca ), including an accessible washroom near the lobby. There is no official coat check, so plan to keep valuables with you or hold coats. Filming is generally not allowed (no flash photography during shows, personal phone photos only). The venue list indicates it offers free Wi-Fi and climate control (www.tagvenue.com ), so you shouldn’t need to worry about connectivity or heat. Overall, the vibe is friendly and energetic – think hip downtown club meets neighborhood bar.
Nearby Amenities
The Rivoli sits amid a bustling stretch of Queen West with many dining and lodging options. Directly on Queen you’ll find everything from casual pubs to upscale ethnic spots. For example, Peter Pan Bistro (French bistro fare) and Score on Queen (a trendy gastropub) are both only a couple of blocks away (www.toronto-theatre.com ) (www.toronto-theatre.com ). Little shops and cafés line the street as well, perfect for a coffee or snack pre-show. A few steps east on Queen is the famous Drake Hotel (with a popular restaurant/bar and rooftop), and the boutique Gladstone House is just around the corner on Queen West itself (www.tripadvisor.com ) (www.tripadvisor.com ). Closer-in bars (many within a 10-minute walk) offer post-show drinks. If staying overnight, the Drake (1150 Queen St W) and Gladstone (1214 Queen St W) are within a short walk (www.tripadvisor.com ) (www.tripadvisor.com ). When to arrive? Many locals suggest getting to Queen West about an hour before showtime so you can grab dinner nearby without rushing. Late-night transit options include 24-hour streetcars on Queen and plenty of cabs or ride-shares, since the last subway train isn’t far away.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Rivoli’s charm lies in its blend of history and creativity. Housed in an Edwardian-era building (one of Toronto’s early movie houses) (www.blogto.com ), it later became one of the city’s first boutique music clubs – a change that “helped define” Queen West’s funky character in the 1980s (www.blogto.com ). Its small size means artists play up-close to the crowd. Legendary stories abound: indie darling Feist tended bar here, and many headliners kicked off at the Rivoli – Gord Downie, Barenaked Ladies, Arcade Fire and Sarah Harmer all played here early in their careers (exclaim.ca ). British stars broke ground too (Adele’s first Canadian show, Amy Winehouse’s first Toronto gig). Even comedy icons tested material here; Robin Williams, Mike Myers and The Kids in the Hall performed nights of stand-up (exclaim.ca ). To fans, being in the audience feels like being part of that legacy. Architecturally, its vintage details stand out – the ornate tin ceiling and warm colors were praised by Exclaim as “one of the more aesthetically pleasing” club interiors in the city (exclaim.ca ). Yet it feels fresh too: modern lighting, an up-to-date sound rig (with eight Yorkville speakers and subwoofers) and full bar service give it an upscale twist. In short, the Rivoli is special because it’s both a historic landmark and a living laboratory of Toronto culture – a place that artists and audiences love as much for its character and atmosphere as for its shows (www.thesoundcafe.com ).
Visitor Tips and Information
Plan to carry a government-issued photo ID – no one under 19 is admitted (it’s a liquor-licensed venue) (www.rivolitoronto.com ). Dress code is informal; crowds range from casual jeans-and-tees to artsy-chic, so wear what’s comfortable. Since most shows are standing-room, comfortable shoes are a must. Security may inspect bags, so avoid bringing large packs or outside food/drinks (only Rivoli-purchased alcohol is allowed). If you arrive early, hang out on the street-level patio to socialize, but remember the venue fills up quickly on big nights. Accessibility: the main floor and front washroom are wheelchair-friendly (exclaim.ca ) (the upstairs lounge is via stairs). Photography: smartphone snaps without flash are usually OK, but professional cameras and video recording are not permitted during performances. Finally, remember the Rivoli’s kitchen serves delicious Thai and fusion dishes (like their famed Pad Thai and “Wookie Balls”) (www.rivolitoronto.com ). Tipping in the bar and restaurant is appreciated. In short: arrive early, bring ID, and enjoy the unique, cozy vibe of one of Toronto’s most beloved clubs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are events at the Rivoli all-ages?
No – all shows at the Rivoli are restricted to guests 19 years or older. You must present valid government-issued photo ID at the door to enter any event (www.rivolitoronto.com ).
How can I buy tickets to a show at the Rivoli?
Tickets are usually sold online through official channels. Check the Rivoli’s website or social media for upcoming event links, which often go to Ticketmaster or Eventbrite. It’s best to buy in advance (popular shows sell out). Any remaining tickets (if not sold out) might be available at the door on a first-come basis, but don’t count on it for busy nights.
Are tickets available at the door if a show sells out?
Usually not – if a show is marked sold out in advance, there will be no additional tickets at the door. It’s safest to buy tickets ahead of time. For less-crowded shows, a few tickets may be released shortly before doors open, but never rely on last-minute entry for big events.
What time do doors open and when do shows start?
Doors typically open about 30 minutes before the advertised start time (www.rivolitoronto.com ). For example, if a show is listed to begin at 8:00 PM, expect the venue to let patrons in around 7:30 PM (at which point any remaining tickets will be sold and first-come standing spots can be claimed). It’s wise to arrive early, as the best vantage spots (near the front) fill up fast.
Is seating reserved at the Rivoli or general admission?
Most events are general admission (standing-room). As Exclaim noted, there is only a single line of built-in seating along the right wall of the Back Room (exclaim.ca ). Apart from that bench, everyone stands on the floor. Small shows might add a few folding chairs, but generally you should expect a crowd standing in front of the stage.
Is there a coat check or place to store bags?
No, Rivoli does not advertise a coat check. Patrons usually keep personal items with them or drape coats on the side bench if seating is available. Due to security checks at entry, it’s best to carry only essentials; large backpacks or luggage are discouraged and may be refused.
Does the Rivoli have an in-house restaurant menu?
Yes. The first-floor dining room serves a variety of dishes (most entrees under $25) (www.rivolitoronto.com ). Menu highlights are Thai and fusion-inspired – longtime favorites include Pad Thai and the quirky “Wookie Balls” fritters (www.rivolitoronto.com ). When no displays are set up, the dining area may open into the Back Room, but food service is usually at tables in the restaurant section. Drinks and bar snacks are always available in the back lounge.
Is the Rivoli wheelchair accessible?
The main floor of the Rivoli is generally accessible. There is an accessible restroom near the front entrance (exclaim.ca ). The performance area is flat on one level, so wheelchair users can access the stage area and the front bar. However, the upstairs pool hall is reached by stairs and has no elevator, so that part of the venue is not wheelchair-accessible. If you have specific needs, calling ahead to the venue can help clarify access details.
Are children or infants allowed at events?
No. All Rivoli events are strictly 19+ only. Children or infants are not permitted to enter, even if accompanied by an adult. Be prepared to have IDs checked for everyone who appears over 19 years old.
Can I bring a camera or record the performances?
Personal cameras and smartphones (no professional gear) are generally allowed for photos, but flash photography during the show is prohibited. Video or audio recording of the performances is not permitted unless you have specific permission from the artist. The venue focuses on live experience, so plan to enjoy the show rather than document it.
Is smoking allowed inside the Rivoli?
No. By law, smoking (and vaping) is banned inside all indoor venues in Toronto. The Rivoli is fully non-smoking indoors. If you need a smoke break, outlet areas or the front patio on Queen Street are the only places you can light up.
What public transit is closest to the Rivoli?
The 501 and 504 Queen streetcars run along Queen Street West and stop at Spadina & Queen, just a block from the Rivoli (moovitapp.com ). The 7 Bathurst bus also stops at Queen & Bathurst (about a 8–10 minute walk east). If you’re coming from the subway, the nearest Line 1 station is Osgoode; from there you can either walk (about 1 km) or transfer to a streetcar.
Is there parking available near the venue?
The Rivoli has no dedicated parking lot. Street parking on Queen West is very limited and metered. A few public parking garages are within a short walk – for example, one at 277 Wellington St W (just 0.4 km north) is recommended (www.toronto-theatre.com ). Using a parking reservation app is also a good idea if you must drive. Otherwise, public transit or rideshare are easier options.
What restaurants are near the Rivoli?
Queen West is lined with eateries. Within a block or two you’ll find places like the French-inspired Peter Pan Bistro and the Score on Queen gastropub (www.toronto-theatre.com ) (www.toronto-theatre.com ). For a trendier spot, try Soluna (Latin American) or Aloette a few blocks east. The area also has plenty of coffee shops and bars if you want a pre-show snack or drink. Nearly anything you could want is walkable.
What is the Rivoli’s exact address?
The Rivoli is located at 334 Queen Street West in Toronto. It's on the south side of Queen near the corner of Bathurst, in the heart of the Queen West entertainment district.
