Kingston’s music scene is growing, and we’ve got plenty of patios, pubs, bars, and breweries with live music lineups to keep you busy. Our curated list of venues offers everything from jazz brunch to rock performances to dance nights with live DJs.
Patios
Musiikki Café
73 Brock Street
On Brock Street, you’ll find Musiikki Café, a gathering place focused on serving up the best coffee, whiskey, music, and art. Musiikki offers live music every day of the week. On Wednesday nights, listen to local musician Frank Ryan perform from 8:30 to 11 pm. Live music usually starts at 8 pm, but Frank is likely coming from another gig at one of the various Kingston locations he plays at. Don’t forget that Musiikki doesn’t serve food and suggests bringing takeout if you’re hungry to enjoy on their patio while watching the show. Follow their Instagram or Facebook to stay updated on live music details.
Black Dog Tavern
69 Brock St.
Black Dog Tavern has been a Kingston favourite for 20 years. Their back patio opens up to the Rochleau Court, adding a European esthetic to your dining experience. To add to the charm, Black Dog’s Jazz Brunch is back every Sunday this summer. Enjoy jazz music by Black Dog Allstars, featuring local favourite Chantal Thompson. While you take in live music en plein air, dig into brunch treats like “Hair of the Black Dog” – pulled confit duck, two poached eggs, triple cream brie, caramelized onions, brown butter Béarnaise, and andouille-spiced home fries). Follow Black Dog Tavern on Instagram or Facebook for updates on upcoming live music events.
Jazz Brunch with Black Dog Allstars (Rich Barnard, Zak Colbert, Carl Marenick, John “Bunny” Stewart, and Chantal Thompson) runs Sundays from 11:30 am to 2:30 pm until Labour Day weekend.
The Caesar Co.
177 Princess St.
Whether you enjoy sitting on a patio or inside away from the sun, you can enjoy live music at The Caesar Co. Big garage doors open at the front of the building, allowing all customers to be part of the action. While listening, try something new like one of Caesar Co.’s many specialty Caesars, like their Surf ‘n’Turf Caesar. For more details about upcoming live music lineups, follow their Facebook or Instagram page.
Wharf and Feather
2 Princess St.
Attached to the Holiday Inn Kingston-Waterfront is the Wharf and Feather Restaurant and Patio, where you can listen to live music while you take in the beautiful waterfront view. Wharf and Feather’s live music series runs throughout the summer on the patio stage. If it’s a late show, as the sun goes down, lights will illuminate the patio – but that’s not the only thing that comes to life. You can also spot Kingston City Hall illuminated from across Confederation Basin. Follow their Instagram or Facebook to stay updated on upcoming live music events.
Pubs
Tir Nan Og
200 Ontario St.
If you’re walking around Springer Market Square, take time to check out the Tir Nan Og. Enjoy pub fare and a pint while you take in the music. Follow their Instagram for updates on live music lineups.
The Toucan & Kirkpatrick’s
76 Princess St.
Check out The Toucan & Kirkpatrick’s for another exceptional Irish pub experience. This pub has two levels: to listen to live music up close and personal, make your way downstairs for a stage view. The Toucan offers a variety of musical genres, from folk to rock to jazz. View their live music webpage or follow them on Instagram and Facebook for more details.
Breweries
Daft Brewing
768 Princess St.
Check out Daft Brewing’s new patio on their next karaoke night. Whether you want to join in to share your talent or sit back and listen to others perform, karaoke nights are always fun. At night, neon lights brighten up the space and the vibrant art throughout the brewery. View Daft Brewing’s events webpage or follow them on Instagram or Facebook for more details.
Spearhead Brewing Company
675 Development Dr.
In Kingston’s west end, Spearhead Brewing Company has a large patio hosting live music. Follow Spearhead Brewing Company on Instagram for weekly updates on upcoming live music lineups.
Bars
Merchant Tap House
6 Princess St.
The Merchant Tap House is a live music staple in Kingston. Located a few steps from the waterfront, here you can enjoy a bite to eat on their patio. As nighttime approaches, head inside where you will be greeted with large rustic beams and a bar setting perfect for live music. See regulars like Scott Owen a local Canadian country artist or attend a Live DJ night to get your dance on. View their live music event page for more details.
