Bovine Sex Club image

Bovine Sex Club

Bar

Arty, graffiti- & found object-covered watering hole famed since 1991 for its live music shows. People often mention music, Great, great, Toronto, good, nice, bands, staff, people, night,


Address

542 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M5V 2B5, Canada

Website

www.bovinesexclub.com

Contact

+1 416-504-4239

Price rating

$ $$$

Rating on Google Maps

4.50 (888 reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Monday: 9 pm to 2 am
  • Tuesday: 9 pm to 2 am
  • Wednesday: 9 pm to 2 am
  • Thursday: 9 pm to 2 am
  • Friday: 9 pm to 2 am
  • Saturday: 9 pm to 2 am
  • Sunday: 9 pm to 2 am

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: music (18) Great (18) great (14) Toronto (12) good (11) nice (11) bands (9) staff (9) people (8) night (8)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 1/5 Thalia A. 1 year ago on Google
    This place is disgusting and racist. After a rock band played 2 songs, they moved two shoe shelves… and the sound guy stopped the show and turned off the mic. Then proceeded to say “they don’t belong here”. They let two previous bands play, but the last band got kicked out for an honest mistake? There was clear racial differences between bands and the minority gets kicked out? Why? The band even apologized gracefully and wanted to continue.. the fans wanted them to continue as well. The place was covered in trash decor like toilet seats and rusty fences and dirty dolls. It also smelt like mildew in there. I feel like I need a tetanus shot after being in this bar. Also the security guard was very unprofessional and told the whole crowd of people to “shut up” cuz the fans were booing in anger… I payed $12 to enter and it was not worth it. Even the bartenders were rude! Terrible experience and I’d never go back here again.
    28 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Russell B. 4 months ago on Google • 485 reviews
    I had a lot of fun with some great people and great music. The bartenders and service was awesome. Definitely going back!!! There was a $20 cover but it's well worth it. 🤘🍻
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Savleen K. 1 year ago on Google
    I had a terrible experience with super racist looks from the bartender Not only they were rude, they clearly had no idea how to make the drinks. Ambience was disaster<<
    15 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 K K. 2 years ago on Google
    After getting past the initial disappointment of realizing this is not in fact a underground cow breeding facility one can start enjoying one of the last and best punk venues in the city. Great shows, great people, good beer!
    9 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Parmis M. 2 years ago on Google
    This place is a hidden treasure! I had an amazing experience with their music and the friendly bartender. The vibe was very unique and totally worth the 20 dollar entrance.
    9 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 no thank y. 1 year ago on Google
    Super chill, and great music. Went there during emo night , and loved it!
    7 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ash N. P. 10 months ago on Google • 171 reviews
    Loved this bar when I visited Toronto. They had the Best music playlist and solid beers on draft. The upstairs outdoors area was super chill.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 JaJar R. 4 months ago on Google • 4 reviews
    Security racially profiled me. Bar is usually chill but went on Dec 16 with some friends, the darker security guy gets hostile quickly the minute last call happens. My friend left her hat and asked if she could get it, security literally yells in her face no gtfo now or he'll get physical. I raised my voice and told him not to talk to her like that, he asked if I'm Hispanic, because apparently they're "always trying to start problems and trying to be a hero". Security there actually has problems and feels free to treat all patrons like garbage, do something about it
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Топор �. 1 year ago on Google
    Nice place to visit, you can get a really nice rock show during weekday. Interior and decor are well done and place itself looks pretty diverse and friendly. They also have some comedy shows and funny interactive games with the visitors sometimes. The bar upstairs is partially roofless so you can breath some fresh air in between bands performance. Downstairs venue is pretty small and can be real crowded but sometimes it works even better somehow. The only issues that I had there is the bartenders: the guy estimated my choice with some arrogance which was real unexpected. Get me my drink, Christ sake, I don`t need to watch your reaction, this is your job! The other girl upstairs with the dreadlocks also was pretty rude kicking out my friend`s chair without even asking. As for a bartender it wasn't nice move at all. She left her purse and I was sitting right there but it didn`t stopped her. Despite that little things the place has some good vibe, crowd and people come there for the shows from all the GTA which is really nice. I met a lot of nice people there. Please, do some work with the bartenders while I am putting 5 stars in advance.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Iffat H. 5 years ago on Google
    Love the ambiance here! The interior is superbly creepy yet cool! Reminded me of the ruins bars in Budapest. Pretty chill and the staff are really nice as well.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Marie S. 1 year ago on Google
    This place is absolutely amazing love the decor and Taiza is absolutely amazing! Sold us on the tiki rooftop and just all out friendly! Definitely recommend
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 VictorHN 1 year ago on Google
    Unique atmosphere and decent music. Bit of a cramped venue for live music but the second bar at the back is a nice touch. Don't expect any mixology. Wear a band shirt or something black
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Dan A. 2 years ago on Google
    Great atmosphere, good drinks, and saw an awesome live performance by local Toronto artist Dr.00 Cifer, 10/10
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sheyda 1 year ago on Google • 31 reviews
    I had a great night watching “They Grieve” perform! Very intimate bar, very cool and creative decor. The sound was great.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sharry B. 7 months ago on Google • 97 reviews
    First time here. Place was packed for a private TIFF event. Staff were nice and accommodating. Sound needed to be tweaked a bit and sound guy wasn't too helpful but is what is is. Cool venue interior and exterior will keep your eyes busy. Back room has a bar as well if it's too loud up front. Bathrooms clean and well stocked. Drinks very reasonably priced.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 James W. 3 months ago on Google • 115 reviews New
    Everywhere to go in Toronto and my friend and I ended up at this Rock and Roll Dive bar. The atmosphere was unique and the crowd was all so inviting. We were met with a happy crowd and fun live music. This sort of thing isn't normally my vibe but I had an absolute blast spending my night here. It was packed but still felt like I could move around easily as well!

  • 5/5 Jac Z. 2 years ago on Google
    Great vibe, cool music, played a volume that you can enjoy while still communicating with your friends. Pretty f-ckin sweet.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 C Alexander (. 2 years ago on Google
    Great cocktails at the tiki bar!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Richard M. 1 year ago on Google
    If your young and old no matter this is your alternate bar experience in toronto. Its a small interactive bar with the best local t.o. alternative bands entertainment. that will surely connect you on any night with a visual and interesting people experience .
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Jeff S. 1 year ago on Google
    Great old school Punk/Metal venue in Queen West. Lots of great bands roll through here and the place has good sound and site lines. Hilarious seeing some people complain about the ambience/stuff on the walls. Those people are clearly in the wrong place, because that's called character kiddies. Only complaints would be it gets a bit tight in there, so would be nice if they cleared out the stools when the music starts to give some more room. Biggest issue I have with it, and the reason I'm giving 4 stars instead of 5 is a few times now I've had to leave before seeing all of the headliner because they go one so late and I need to catch the last GO train home. Only got to see about four songs of Dayglo Abortions last night which really sucked. I was looking really forward to seeing them. I know it's not very Punk Rock, but I do gotta get home (without paying over $100 for an Uber).
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Icarus R. 1 year ago on Google
    Bovine is always a go to for excitement. Got a 3rd place high score on one of the pinball machines and within a few weeks was overtaken.. you could call it competitive! Bartenders are efficient and friendly, never an issue with patrons everyone is well behaved and there to have fun. Great music, on stage and on the house system. Lots of familiar faces
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Adam S. 1 year ago on Google
    Although it's been renovated over the past decade, this place REALLY hasn't changed in over 30 years. If anything, the sketchiest bathrooms in Toronto are even sketchier. But it was amazing then, and it's amazing now! This is authentic old Queen West. Please never change.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Daniel H. 5 years ago on Google
    This place is dope. Roof top bar is seperate from the venue but same front entrance. Uniquely hung Christmas lights and random stuff hanging from the ceiling. There's a pretty cool arcade in the back and the staff is cool too.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Mayank K. 3 months ago on Google • 22 reviews New
    I like this place, they have good live bands performances and a lot of creative shows. However, the bartender over charged me many times. She charged $17 for 2 Jägermeister shots. When I confronted her she said that's the rate.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Maria K. 10 months ago on Google • 55 reviews
    Visiting Toronto for the first time and came across this gem! Happened to come on a night of North by Northeast festival, fantastic rock bands and vibe! I hope this place will stay in business forever!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Pat N. 2 years ago on Google
    The best dive bar in the entire city. Great atmosphere, kind staff, great live music. One of the last bastions of true rock and roll in the city.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Vlad N. 2 years ago on Google
    This place is always 5 stars and 5 hearts for being one of the last great Toronto RnR dive bars. Please stay with us forever!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tim M. 5 months ago on Google • 71 reviews
    Stopped here because the place looked cool from the outside, stayed for an amazing open mic nifht

  • 5/5 Jeremy H. 2 months ago on Google • 18 reviews New
    It's not what the title suggests but it's got a great dingy aesthetic, often open late, staff are friendly, pinball machines and movies on the screens for those shy or less into socializing. Great spot overall and that's not even working in the seasonal rooftop patio (also great)
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Nika 10 months ago on Google
    Great place for live music from local alt bands or just grabbing a pint on main floor. Can't get enough of the rooftop patio to enjoy summer nights. Great grungy aesthetic and considerate staff looking out for everyone's best interest. No fuss, all fun.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jessica K. 2 years ago on Google
    This place is ridiculous and I love it. Great music. Love the rooftop patio.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Swaraj M. 2 years ago on Google
    I really like this place. The music is just top notch, mostly live. The cocktails are really cool and unique. The vibes are amazing. A MUST visit if you're in Toronto.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Richard S. 5 months ago on Google
    This is a good place to end the night because it’s a low-key bar that closes later than most other bars. It has amateur live rock & punk music on the first floor and few arcades at the back as well as tiki bar with outdoor patio upstairs. The only downside is the vibe because it’s not for everyone imho but service has always been good.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Louis B. 8 months ago on Google
    The only place if you wanna hear and/or see hard music in Toronto. The wall decoration is awesome.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Sara F. 10 months ago on Google
    I love bovine and always make a point to visit, after all it's a punk rock legend. Last time I was in town the security was very rude and aggressive, to the point I think he should be fired. This was all for no reason in particular. Epic place to visit though, hopefully next time I visit I'm welcomed.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Rebecca R. 9 months ago on Google
    Loved this place. Great staff and cocktails 🍹
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Jam L. 1 year ago on Google
    Place is a land mark in Toronto. Staff aren't always welcome but thats because they are always super busy not their fault. Dont expect personalized service unless you been going there for years. Door man always doing their work checking IDs. Upstairs is awesome different vibe. Downstairs bands or great music. Towards the back when its open the VIP area sometimes, pinball and a second bar. Great prices for downtown. Great place. Shout out to Andrew and Darryl
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Vanessa McMahon (. 1 year ago on Google
    Love this eclectic little queen street west punk bar 😍
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Kayleigh C. 1 year ago on Google
    Great spot for a small concert and a cheap drink. The place has a unique charm, staff are friendly.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Javier A. 2 years ago on Google
    If you like good and great rock music. This is the place to be including the Tikki bar upstairs. Owner and staff are the best in Toronto.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Adil A. 1 year ago on Google
    We performed. People moshed. The owner and the staff are very nice and the decor is incredible.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Alex E. 2 years ago on Google
    The tiki bar is charming and the drinks are boozy and tasty. Worth walking up stairs.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Thanh L. 2 years ago on Google
    One of my favourite places in Toronto, glad it's open again!!

  • 5/5 bill10148 2 years ago on Google
    I haven't lived in Toronto since 1991, but I dare you to tempt me with a better dive bar... still my go to since then, and hopefully a road trip in the not-too-far-away.

  • 5/5 Юля �. 9 months ago on Google
    If you do not know which bar to choose, from those that are open late and are nearby, then this is your choice)Elyse Will make you wonderful cocktails, rest assured my negroni was good)

  • 5/5 Eric 1 year ago on Google
    Such a cool bar. All the stuff on the ceiling looks sick. Great venue for concerts and the drinks aren't too expensive.

  • 5/5 Davis D. 2 years ago on Google
    Awesome that comedy is here. Great bar, recently saw Renegade Comedy and definitely will go back.

  • 4/5 . 6 months ago on Google
    A bit pricey.. But still a good time

  • 3/5 Zelda 1 year ago on Google
    Paying cover for this sweaty greasy bar of old dudes was a waste. Only the game room was nice. All the female bartenders are sooo nice and baddies though.

  • 5/5 Emmersn O. 1 year ago on Google
    Oh The nostalgia.... When I was younger spent a lot of time in this bar then came to watch an old friend starting their tour in this bar.. bovine never lets you down you know what you're getting, community staple, and a really damn good time.

  • 5/5 Leisa D. 1 year ago on Google
    Taiza, Toby, and Rod made our night! Such great service and vibes! Will definitely visit again!

  • 4/5 Jeremy A. 1 year ago on Google
    Just seen indian handcrafts here. Great place to see a sweaty club show. Good atmosphere and sound


Call +1 416-504-4239 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Payments
    • ✓️ Debit cards
    • ✓️ Credit cards
    • ✓️ NFC mobile payments
  • Offerings
    • ✓️ Beer
    • ✓️ Food
    • ✓️ Wine
    • ✓️ Alcohol
    • ✓️ Dancing
    • ✓️ Spirits
    • ✓️ Cocktails
  • Accessibility
    • ✗ Wheelchair-accessible car park
  • Dining options
    • ✓️ Seating
  • Service options
    • ✓️ Dine-in
    • ✗ Delivery
    • ✗ Takeaway
    • ✓️ Outdoor seating

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