Molly Bloom’s, the Irish pub on College Street has shut its doors as it seeks a new location. A final night of celebratory karaoke on May 28 drew a student-heavy crowd to the watering hole, co-ordinated in part by a Facebook event alerting U of T students to the bar’s imminent closure. The pub was a favourite of U of T students, thanks to its proximity to campus.
“Everyone was just singing along with all of the songs, then someone started a UC cheer,” recalled Gwyneth Hodgins, a University College student who was a Monday night karaoke regular.
Molly Bloom’s was especially dear to University College students, for whom the bar was only a short walk away. The bar was often a first stop for students finishing April exams in the nearby Examination Centre. During humid summer months, the patio became a sanctuary for many students staying in the area for either work or summer school, often full of familiar faces.
“It was so close to our place, so it’s so sad it’s not going to be there this summer,” explained Hodgins. As a gathering place for friends and fellow students, Hodgins said, “Molly’s was more than a bar,” and provided a great opportunity for socialization.
In recent Twitter updates (@Mollystoronto), ownership has made it known that the bar has not gone out of business. They are seeking a new location and will eventually re-open, although it is not clear whether the new location will be near campus. The building now vacated at 191 College St. will be occupied by a new restaurant, expected to open in 6–8 weeks. The space is currently undergoing renovations. Molly Bloom’s maintains other locations in Guelph, Waterloo, Stratford, and elsewhere across southern Ontario.
