Last night, I had the pleasure of dining with friends in Toronto’s vibrant Queen West, a neighbourhood celebrated for its eclectic mix of fashion, art, and music. My dinner companions were Chrissy, co-host of Alien Encounters: Fact or Fiction on Discovery and HBO Max, and Rich, a talented graphic designer. Both are creative souls with an undeniable passion for travel—clearly, we had lots to talk about!
Dinner at The Rhino Bar & Grill
Photo Credit: The Rhino Bar & Grill
We settled into The Rhino Bar & Grill, a cozy spot known for its casual vibe with a large patio and indoor space with pool tables. This family run establishment is located in Toronto’s Queen West neighbourhood, has been a local staple since 1992. Situated in a heritage building dating back to 1909, it offers a laid-back atmosphere with casual dining, 25 craft beers on tap, and a diverse menu, including vegan options. The bar also features two pool tables, large flat-screen TVs for sports, and a spacious patio perfect for outdoor dining. It’s a popular spot for group gatherings, complete with a welcoming vibe and plenty of seating both indoors and outside.
We sat on the patio. Chrissy and I opted for the vegetarian power bowl, a delicious and healthy choice, while Rich savored the grilled chicken with fries. Ah, fries! One of my indulgent vices that I’m currently avoiding—sigh. But the temptation was strong as I eyed Rich’s plate!
Tilt Arcade Bar
After dinner, we strolled next door to Tilt, an arcade designed for adults where nostalgia and fun meet. Stepping into Tilt felt like stepping back in time to my childhood. PacMan, Joust, Mario Brothers, Donkey Kong, Frogger—all the classics were there! The place was buzzing with energy as the bright lights from the retro machines reflected off the walls.
Originally opened in 2016, Tilt has become a staple in Toronto’s entertainment scene, even hosting Netflix Canada’s press junket for Stranger Things Season 3 in 2019—a perfect setting for the 80s-themed show.
For just $10 CAD (cash only!), you get unlimited access to over 90 games, including arcade machines, pinball, and console booths—all set to free play. A quick tip—make sure you have enough cash. I was short by 30 cents, and even Chrissy’s charm couldn’t get me in! Thankfully, Rich saved the day by finding a loonie in his car. This likely occurs frequently, and if they overlook it each time, it ultimately impacts their operational costs.
Back to the Classics
Once inside, I couldn’t resist playing Ms. PacMan half a dozen times. It was like meeting an old friend! We also tried Dance Revolution, which was tricky at first. Following the arrows took some getting used to, but once we got the hang of it, we were absolutely crushing it. Unfortunately, by the time we did, we were too tired to keep going! Such is life when you’re reliving your arcade glory days.
Pinball and Atari Vibes
Tilt also offers pinball machines. The Wheel of Fortune was my favourite. Although I’m not quite the pinball wizard I used to be, I loved the challenge. The 80s living room set with Atari was a nostalgic trip back in time, complete with classic furniture and vibes from a different era.
The Verdict
If you’re looking for a fun night out with friends or even a team-building event for work, Tilt is the perfect spot. With wall-to-wall nostalgia, classic arcade games, and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s a unique way to unwind and reconnect with your inner child. Highly recommend checking it out—and don’t forget to bring cash!
As you embark on your travels, remember that our journey leaves an impact. Embrace eco-friendly accommodations, support local communities, and reduce plastic use. Respect wildlife by observing from afar and conserve resources like water and energy. Choose sustainable transportation, leave no trace behind, and participate in conservation efforts. Educate yourself and others about the environment you’re exploring. Let’s ensure that we tread lightly on our planet, leaving only footprints of kindness and taking home memories that inspire others to protect our beautiful world. Happy responsible travels!