Bar Pompette — Restaurant in Toronto

Located in Little Italy just west of Bar Raval, Bar Pompette feels like a sophisticated French café with its white brick walls and elegant wood backbar. The welcoming French ambiance at Pompette should be no surprise given the provenance of the Alsatian founders Maxime Hoerth and Hugo Togni. Bar Pompette is a spinoff of the popular College Street restaurant Pompette, which opened in March 2020. Although the original plan was to push an ambitious cocktail and food pairing concept at Pompette, the pandemic forced the owners to switch to a brasserie format. As luck turned out, a cafe space opened up a few doors down, and it was there that Bar Pompette was born.

Drink wise, you can choose from tap-based and traditionally prepared signatures, with my favorite being 11 am in Marseille (roasted almond orgeat, beeswax infused pastis, lime and egg white). Although I was not a huge lover of pastis before visiting Pompette, I am now thanks to this...

Atmosphere: 7.5/10 Little Italy. A very typical neighborhood vibe, matched by a straightforward bar layout—plenty of counter seating and tables for groups. It doesn’t immediately stand out design-wise, but the backbar is impressively stocked. Music has a funky edge but stays at a pleasant volume for conversation.

Drinks: 8.5/10 Recommendation: Cocktail de Paris Menu design is a highlight: sophisticated, easy to follow, with clear ingredient descriptions and playful illustrations matched to each drink. High-quality glassware, unique coasters, and minimalist garnish and presentation. The drink list leans creative, with fun names and thoughtful combinations. Cocktail de Paris was excellent—well-balanced and satisfying. Oh La Vache #3 didn’t land as cleanly, coming off a bit unbalanced.

Service: 8.5/10 Water on arrival, highly attentive and professional team. Pricing is a bit above average for Toronto, but service is...

A day of firsts. Stopped by after my first haircut, for my first sit at a bar. Was on my own, and the staff was welcome and accommodating on a busy night.

Definitely felt like I was back in a cozy bar in France. Not just because of the French accents carried by the team, but also the impeccable hospitality.

Hugo made some fantastic drinks (thanks!), and conversation about our favorite far flung bar lists. He's a great recruit for Toronto.

I indulged in a few snacks which proved irresistible. The ricotta was beautiful and deeply satisfying, especially with their baguettes.

I would say I can't wait to come back, but I've already been back at least once since, and looking forward to stopping by during the day for their cafe fare.

Update: Went back for a seat at the patio a couple weeks later. I didn't even realize it was back there! Gorgeous romantic space. Same great cocktails...