KINGS of the CLUB SCENE in the ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT

Once upon a time, Toronto’s club district was primarily confined to a narrow swath of the city bordered by Richmond and Adelaide streets. Every weekend, the sidewalks filled with club-goers from across the city, lining up to get into one of the many warehouse-sized dance halls.

But gradually, the club and cocktail scene crept south, eventually spilling into King Street’s Entertainment District. The difference, though, was that this new club zone seemed to attract a different breed of reveller. The clubs became less than just a place to get soused, and became more about style, atmosphere and indulgence. Bottle service—once a feature confined to cities like Las Vegas and Los Angeles—has become de rigueur in Toronto. In this town, clubbing has gone glam.

From nightclubs with private couches to rooftop patios with private cabanas, here are the Kings of Clubs: the best places to party the night away in King West

CENTURY ROOM

Arguably the place to be seen on King West, Century Room has a history of hosting A-list celebrities and athletes. Past partiers at Century Room have included Paris Hilton, Puff Daddy, Jude Law, Jamie Foxx, Mark Wahlberg and Sean Paul. And it’s no wonder the place is so popular with big names. The large space is utterly gorgeous, retaining its charm as a warehouse built at the turn of the century. Exposed brick, wooden beams and 16-foot ceilings give the space an old-world feel, while the chic crowd creates a strictly modern mood. Add to that beautiful people, plenty of high rollers and a VIP section that’s always at capacity, and you can see why this bar holds status as one of the King West’s best party places. And if you want to really party like a rock star, order up some Hennessey or Remy Martin cognac with your bottle service, at a smooth $450 per bottle.

CHEVAL

Cheval’s website says the club was “inspired by the impulsive and playful parties of Barcelona, Rome, Paris and Athens.” While I can’t vouch for that (I’ll add that research to my to-do list), I can say that the space is certainly playful and energetic. Black and white photos of horses (naturally, given the name) and women giving come-hither stares adorn the walls, while moody tinges of red, yellow and orange cast a warm glow over the space.

In the summer months, head up to the rooftop patio, where you can lounge in a private booth and gaze out over the downtown city skyline. Go simple with bottles that start at $220 for basic vodka, gin or rum, or splurge on a bottle of Johnnie Walker Blue whiskey for $500 or Louis Roederer Cristal Rose champagne for $900.

C LOUNGE

C Lounge feels a bit like a harem when you walk in, with its deep couches lined up down the middle of the room and the casually draped curtains dividing off private VIP areas. But the truth is, those in the know don’t go to C Lounge for the interior. Instead, they head straight to the patio area, which is home to Toronto’s first spa-inspired lounge. We’re talking about candle-lit cabanas, palm trees and white loungers gathered around a pool, while the city lights shine above you. If it wasn’t for the CN Tower glowing in the distance, you could think you were at a club in Miami instead of Toronto.

In addition to its club status, C Lounge is also a popular spot for receptions and corporate events, thanks to its fabulous décor and layout, and even more fabulous catering options. There’s no question about it—if you’re invited to a private event at C Lounge, you’re going.

BRANT HOUSE

Brant House has established a strong spot on the supper club scene in Toronto. Part restaurant, part lounge, part club, it appeals to those seeking a good meal, or just a good dance party—or both. Beat the line-up and come for dinner first; share a meal with friends at one of the resto-lounge’s long communal-style tables. Platters of fine cheeses and cured meats, along with a variety of flatbreads, will get you nourished before the party gets underway.

But my personal favourite aspect of Brant House is the décor. It’s warm, luxurious and a bit raw, thanks to exposed brick walls, wooden posts and plank flooring that give the space a loft-style appeal, as well as a nod to the building’s 18th-century roots as an old factory.

MAISON MERCER

Maison Mercer is big. At 12,000 square feet with multiple levels, this is a club that can handle a crowd of more than a thousand people—giving you the chance to meet plenty of Toronto’s upscale club-goers.

Inside, it’s a true dance hall party, with LED lights and video screens and a state-of-the-art audio system that’s one of the best in the country. But it’s the rooftop that gets the most attention in the summer months and early fall—particularly during the Toronto International Film Festival, when booze-stocked cabanas offer celeb retreats, and all of it with a view of the downtown lights in the background. Be prepared to dance like a maniac at Maison (or spot a celeb if you’re here during TIFF).

Toronto’s club district has long moved beyond the sweaty bars of Richmond and Adelaide. And the clubs that have popped up on King West are some of the best the city has ever seen.