After 30 lively and prosperous years in Toronto's Entertainment District, the much-adored Crocodile Rock has just announced their permanent closure as of yesterday.
The bar took to social media yesterday to break the news and say their goodbyes, citing that their ownership group has unfortunately been put in a position to permanently shut the doors. This no doubt comes as a result of the city shutdown due to COVID-19, because of which many bars and restaurants have been unable to afford their rent and keep up with expenses without the usual traffic.
For a multi-floor venue with a rooftop space like Crocodile Rock, they are used to receiving daily crowds from office parties, after-work celebrators and summertime patio hoppers who come for cheap drinks and, as they put it, "a crockin' good time". Unfortunately, they were still an independent business, and without enough support from the government, are unable to stay open after months without operation. Beyond the obvious lack of sales for a closed nightclub during this time, the bar also stated their realization that even after re-opening at some point, the core of their business just wouldn't be the same, explaining that "social distancing is the exact opposite of what Crocodile Rock is at it's core."
Crocodile Rock praised both their loyal customers and their staff for all the success they've seen over the years, and put out a heartfelt message to thank them as part of their Instagram post. There's no question that Torontonians will miss the rooftop beer buckets, blasting tunes and $3 drink specials that we all know and love from this iconic spot, and we're sad to see it go.
