Since the late ’80s, the Rex has been at the forefront of Toronto’s thriving local jazz scene. The casual atmosphere, eclectic mix of retro-chic decor, and an exciting variety of draught beer combine to make The Rex feel like a second home.
The Jazz & Blues Bar continually attracts Canada’s finest musicians and is unique in that it remains distinctly inexpensive and affordable for the budget-conscious. During the annual Downtown Jazz Festival, The Rex is one of the central venues with the busiest programme. All year long, it’s not unusual for world-renowned musicians (like Kurt Elling, Chris Potter, Roy Hargrove & The RH Factor, Joshua Redman, Russel Malone, Harry Connick Jr., George Garzone, David Binney & Mark Turner, The Bloomdaddies, Willem Breuker Kollektiv, Ricardo Del Fra, Derek Trucks Band, Mulgrew Miller, Eric Reed, Stacy Rowles, Ani Difranco, Maceo Parker, Dave Liebman, Chris Tarry & Henry Hey & Pete McCann, Rudder’s Chris Cheek, Tim LeFebvre and Keith Carlock, Gary Versace & Dan Weiss, Slide Hampton, Joe & Pat LaBarbera, Christian Scott, Rob McConnell, Donny McCaslin & Ben Monder & Scott Colley & Antonio Sanchez and many more) to show up on our stage.
Where: the Rex Hotel Jazz & Blues Bar
Address: 194 Queen St. West @ Simcoe, Toronto, ON
Phone:
When: Mon – Fri 6:30 pm & 9:30 pm ; Sat & Sun 12:00 noon, 3:30 pm, 7:00 pm & 9:30 pm (these times are for Jazz music only, see website for full hours of operation as times will vary)
Parking: Street and public parking nearby
Price: Varies – Evening (9:30) shows on weekends are generally $5 – $10. Weeknights range from pwyc to $5 or $7. Matinees pwyc – jar is passed (prices do not include restaurant or hotel, see website for details).
Website: http://www.therex.ca/
Dress Code: Smart Casual
Why: Lively crowd, Jazz music every day of the week, great show times, excellent after work environment, if you feel sleepy or are too drunk to drive; go upstairs in the hotel!
