Lack of Better Downtown Options Keeps the Rail Front and Center

Popped into the Rail for the first time in 2026 on a Saturday night in January. It was that first weekend after the holidays so I figured things would be getting back to full swing or at least close. The Leafs were on the road against the Islanders so a packed-to-the-gills night probably wasn't in the cards but that suited me just fine as I wasn't in the mood for waiting outside in the cold to get in. When the Leafs are playing at home on a Saturday night, that usually corresponds to a busy night at the Rail with lots of dancers and customers. So I was expecting a half-busy vibe.

I always arrive a bit before or a little after midnight as that is the peak time here and I don't like being in an emptyish club where you will be constantly approached and asked to go for dances before you've even had a sip of beer. There is no cover for the main entrance. Upper Brass at my last check was $30 but very few people spring for that nowadays (it's just too dead overall). I ordered a Miller Lite for $12.25 plus tip. Despite the club only being about 50-60% capacity, all the barstools were taken so I had to stand before eventually grabbing a seat near the back part of the club past the main stage.

This has been noted in other reviews, but it still cannot go unmentioned. The talent pool here is very umm, let's say "veteran-laden." Think of a sports team that is okay, but its entire core of players are in their mid-to-late 30s with quite a few 40-somethings too. The Toronto SC scene has not regained its footing since the pandemic. Many still find a good time can be had, but that's likely because of good experiences with longtime regulars. The influx of hot 18-24 year-old talent just isn't something you'll find at the Brass Rail aside from the rare unicorn who hasn't yet realized she can do OnlyFans.