A long-standing pub in downtown Toronto, the Imperial Pub and Tavern, will close its doors on November 15 after 81 years of operation. The establishment, owned by the Newman family since its inception, has been a staple in the Yonge and Dundas area, which has undergone significant changes over the decades.

The Imperial Pub has remained a no-frills watering hole amid the evolving landscape of the city. The area has transformed from a seedy environment with peep shows and video arcades to a more commercialized space filled with chain restaurants and large LED screens. Despite these changes, the pub has maintained its charm, offering a comfortable atmosphere with jazz music, cozy seating, and a straightforward menu featuring items like chili and sandwiches.

Sam Newman, part of the third generation of the family to run the pub, described it as a neighborhood spot in a place where the concept of a neighborhood seems to have faded. He noted, "It’s like a neighborhood pub in a neighborhood where nobody thinks there’s a neighborhood anymore."

The Imperial has served as a refuge for many Torontonians, including students from the nearby Toronto Metropolitan University, business professionals, and those facing hardships. Fred Newman, Sam's father, shared a poignant memory of a regular patron who, despite his struggles, found solace in the pub. "A middle-aged fellow, clearly suffering through a very bad patch, drowning his sorrows with a pitcher of beer to himself at a table in the downstairs bar while sitting in a wheelchair from the Hospital for Sick Children," he recalled.

In recent years, the pub has seen an increase in patrons dealing with addiction issues, prompting the presence of security staff. However, Fred emphasized that the security was more of a precaution than a response to specific incidents. The decision to close the pub is not directly related to the neighborhood's challenges but rather due to a change in ownership of the property. A developer has plans for luxury condominiums on the site, which may include student housing.

The Imperial has been a beloved spot for many, especially students who appreciated its welcoming environment. Fred mentioned that students often expressed gratitude for being able to use the space for studying or socializing without pressure to consume alcohol. "They’ve been terrific," he said, reflecting on the pub's relationship with the student community.

The pub's closure has garnered significant attention, with many locals expressing surprise at the outpouring of support. Ricky Newman, Sam's brother, remarked, "People don’t believe me when I tell them how surprised we are by people’s reaction to our closing. It’s gratifying for sure. It’s like Sally Field at the Oscars: ‘You like us, you really like us!’"

While the Imperial Pub is not known for its musical history like other famous venues in the area, it has played a significant role in Toronto's social fabric. Originally opened as a beverage room in a hotel, it has remained a simple, unpretentious establishment. The upstairs Library bar, once hotel rooms, has served as a gathering place for students and locals alike.

The pub's menu has always focused on basic comfort food, avoiding trendy culinary fads. Ricky Newman shared that the goal was to keep expectations low while delivering quality food. "The idea was to simply keep our promises low, and let people be pleasantly surprised by the basic food being better than they expect," he said.

As the Imperial Pub prepares to close, it leaves behind a legacy of community, comfort, and a unique place in Toronto's history. Its absence will be felt by many who found a home within its walls.