Specializing in Italian-inspired bar food and drinks, Ladybug Tavern joins the recent surge of bars, pubs, taverns and locals that have been opening up along College Street, in Little Italy.
The Ladybug is the latest venture of Louie Cristello. In a neat instance of coming-full-circle, his first bar was also located on College (where he grew up). However, Cristello left a more indelible mark on Toronto’s bar scene as the long-time owner and operator of the beloved Banknote Bar, which sat at the corner of King and Bathurst for over two decades.
Although the Banknote closed its doors in August of 2022 – albeit for a good cause (a future stop on the much-needed new Metrolinx Ontario line – die-hard patrons need not despair at its passing. At the Ladybug, they will encounter many of their favourite chefs, bartenders and waitstaff, not to mention menu items. They’ll also be literally surrounded by elements of the former bar, in the form of woodwork and decorative objects that Cristello managed to salvage and re-purpose.
Ladybug is smaller and cozier than its predecessor and its lunch and dinner menu is a little more eclectic. The menu features plenty of classic Italiana (pastas, chicken parm, stone-fired pizzas and calzones) and classic pub grub (burgers, wings, fish and chips). But it also offers up some surprises such as Greek spare ribs, Baja tacos and Parmesan poutine along with some creative salads and sandwiches. On weekend days offer a robust brunch menu.
Cristello hopes to create a neighbourhood hangout where locals can drop by with their friends or their kids, which is both welcoming and affordable. With respect to the latter, there are some tempting happy hour food and drink specials, among them $4 tacos and $7 pints. In addition to a wide range of draft, bottled and canned beers, the Ladybug offers a solid selection of reds and whites and a handful of classic cocktails, including the Coccinella, its own take on the Negroni.
With a colour scheme of deep greens and golds – symbolizing good luck – Cristello is betting that this Ladybug, instead of flying away, will stick around. At the rate new subway lines get built in Toronto, it’s probably a good bet.
Ladybug Tavern is located at 890 College Street and is open Monday to Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. and Saturday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 a.m.
