The
Lockhart’s connection to Harry Potter has been blown out of proportion by the
media … they are not a “Harry Potter bar”. Even the owners warn visitors they are
merely a bar with elements inspired by JK Rowling’s famous story – a tribute or
theme bar it’s not.
Sure,
you’ll find Pop Toys of the characters amongst a lot of other references on the
walls. The downstairs washroom area is decorated with beautiful murals, the
staircase leading to the basement with pages from the book. Let’s just say
you’ll be entertained if you’re waiting for a stall. Even some of the mixers
pay homage to the books – a shot of marauder
anyone?
Just
don’t expect to see the movies playing (the only TV in the bar is actually a
chalkboard) or even the movie scores to serenade you (there was an awesome 90s
slow jams and R&B playlist).
Of
course, it didn’t stop me from ordering the Betterbeer ($11.50), a drink that
looks like a milkshake but tastes like a lightly creamed ginger beer. The
cinnamon-infused toasted butter washed Sauza meant I couldn’t even taste the
tequila... talk about being befuddled. Despite being creamy, the drink finishes
light from the carbonated beer. I don’t get the significance of the toasted
marshmallow, but it was delicious nevertheless.
Cocktails
like the Botanist ($12) and Royal Tea ($10.75) are simply beautiful. While I
normally love cucumber and floral based drinks, the Botanist was even too much
for me. The Royal Tea is a mellower choice with no floral essence other than
the sprig of Baby’s Breathe used for garnish. It reminded me of a spiked
lemonade iced tea with the refreshing raspberry rooibos infused Absolut peach
with lemon.
If you
enjoy a savoury Ceasar ($12), you’re able to customize the spice level and I find it
has a mellower finish. The generally overpowering Worcestershire is
nicely restrained.
Their
mixologists must be busy with potion's homework as The Lockhart also makes the syrups
and infusions used within the cocktails. Creating so many of the inputs does
mean their menu is condensed and carefully curated. It seems a trip to Hogsmeade is in order.
How To Find Them
Location: Toronto, Canada
Address: 1479 Dundas Street West
Address: 1479 Dundas Street West
Is That It? I Want More!
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