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Danforth Bowl

4.4
·456 reviews·Toronto, Canada

Step back in time at Danforth Bowl, a retro 5-pin bowling alley offering disco nights, hot snacks, and draft beer. A true local gem!

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekend Evenings

Disco bowling fun!

CrowdHigh
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Danforth Bowl - Image 1

Danforth Bowl

Best Time

Weekend Evenings

Disco bowling fun!

CrowdHigh

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step back in time at Danforth Bowl, a retro 5-pin bowling alley offering disco nights, hot snacks, and draft beer. A true local gem!

4.4
(456 reviews)

"It’s a hidden gem in Danforth, I wish I knew of this place earlier! Will definitely come here for more celebrations."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Bring Cash!

Shoe rentals and the bar are cash-only. Come prepared to avoid any issues! :moneybag:

📅 Book Your Lanes

This popular spot fills up fast, especially for parties. Plan ahead! :calendar:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Retro 5-Pin Bowling

Retro 5-Pin Bowling

Bowling Lanes

Experience classic 5-pin bowling with manual scoring and lane resetting. A nostalgic trip back in time!

Reddit
Disco Bowling Nights

Disco Bowling Nights

Bowling Lanes

Dance and bowl under the disco lights for a fun, energetic weekend experience.

Reddit
Cozy Party Venue

Cozy Party Venue

Entire Venue

Perfect for birthday parties and group gatherings with a unique, intimate atmosphere.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Cash is King Here!

Danforth Bowl operates on a cash-only basis for shoe rentals and the bar. Make sure to bring enough cash to avoid any payment hassles and enjoy your retro bowling experience without interruption. Reddit

Book Ahead for Fun

This beloved local spot can get booked up, especially for weekend disco bowling and parties. Planning ahead is key to securing your lanes and ensuring a smooth celebration. TikTokReddit

Best Times

When
Weekend Evenings
Why
Disco bowling fun!
Crowd
High
When
Weekday Afternoons
Why
Less crowded, relaxed vibe
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

@Yalla Paramount just opened on the Danforth and it's already a gem! 541 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4K 1P7 They're serving Middle Eastern bowls, pockets & salads that are not only super fresh and flavorful, but also really affordable Perfect if you're craving something quick, tasty, and halal-friendly. I tried a few dishes, but the kafta bowl + beet tabbouleh salad totally stole the show Trust me...
@yulahandro
23 likes • 505 views

🎯 Bring Cash!

Shoe rentals and the bar are cash-only. Come prepared to avoid any issues! Reddit :moneybag:

📅 Book Your Lanes

This popular spot fills up fast, especially for parties. Plan ahead! Reddit :calendar:

CHACHUS DANFORTH 915 DANFORTH AVENUE, TORONTO 11am - 3am 50% OFF ON HANDMADE PARATHAS + LARGE BOWLS until supplies last #blackfriday #halal #danforth #toronto #latenight #pakistani #fusion #poutine #chachu #fedbychachu
@fedbychachus
34 likes • 1.4K views
that banana did NOT want to be the first victim 😮‍💨 but we eat so good here at Vincenzo😋 come visit us at 679 Danfort Avenue! #toronto #torontocafe #greektown #yogurtbowl #fyp
@cafevincenzo.ca
20 likes • 823 views

📝 Manual Scoring

Embrace the retro vibe with paper and pencil scoring. It's part of the charm! Reddit :pencil2:

👟 Shoe Rental Fee

There's a small fee for shoe rentals, so factor that into your budget. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

I reallly enjoyed this place. The bartender was serving drinks out one at a time tho but oh well. I got the oxtail and curry goat bowl too as leftovers and I might even like them more 2 days later. Highly recommend going for drinks and appys. Tank u for taking us Grama. SUGARKANE 📍699 Danforth Ave #torontorestaurants #torontolife #foodie #foodblogger #torontoblogger #torontotiktok #restaurantrevi...
@cheerstolove_loveee
44 likes • 2.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Bring Cash!

Shoe rentals and the bar are cash-only. Come prepared to avoid any issues! Reddit :moneybag:

📅 Book Your Lanes

This popular spot fills up fast, especially for parties. Plan ahead! Reddit :calendar:

📝 Manual Scoring

Embrace the retro vibe with paper and pencil scoring. It's part of the charm! Reddit :pencil2:

👟 Shoe Rental Fee

There's a small fee for shoe rentals, so factor that into your budget. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

✨ Retro Atmosphere

Enjoy the unique, old-school charm. It's a step back in time! Reddit :sparkles:

What Travellers Say

4.4
(456 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Danforth Bowl is a beloved local gem offering a unique retro 5-pin bowling experience. Visitors rave about the friendly staff, the fun disco bowling nights, and the intimate, well-kept atmosphere perfect for parties and casual outings. While the cash-only policy and manual scoring are part of its old-school charm, some find booking and payment logistics require planning.

"I went here to celebrate my birthday with my friends. It was amazing! The staff were very nice and helpful.
I struggled with making a reservation over the phone, but I was able to walk-in and make one with the owner who went above and beyond to accommodate me.
It’s a hidden gem in Danforth, I wish I knew of this place earlier! Will definitely come here for more celebrations.
They have a cash only bar and service, just an fyi!"

Nadiya Sehgal

"Attended a friend's birthday party here and we all had a lot of fun! I think as long as you're willing to follow the rules here, respect the place, and enjoy a more retro vibe, you can have a great time.

5 pin bowling with the small balls, manual scorekeeping with paper and pencil, and manual resetting of the lane with a push of a button. Some food and drink available for purchase, along with a $5 bowling shoe rental fee per person. We bowled for 2 hours and that was more than enough time.

The folks that own the place are pretty friendly, and as mentioned just follow the rules they lay out. The place is well kept as a result."

Brandon C

"Had the best time here! I called to book a kiddos night out with some friends, I was surprised how booked up they were so I recommend planning ahead if you can. We booked 2 lanes, with 4 kiddos and 6 adults. They prefer cash, reasonable prices. Owners are super sweet and accommodating with the chaos our toddlers caused. Drinks and pizza. The perfect meal and snacks for kiddos. They had stands for balls for the little people. Retro vibes, very cool place. Highly recommend, I will definitely be coming back :)"

Soraya Wilks

What People Like

Friendly and accommodating staff
Fun retro 5-pin bowling
Great for parties and groups

What People Dislike

Cash-only policy
Manual scorekeeping

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Danforth Bowl is located at 541 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4K 1P7. It's easily accessible by public transit, with several TTC bus routes and the Danforth subway line nearby. Parking can be limited in the area, so public transport is often recommended. TikTok

Street parking is available in the vicinity of Danforth Bowl, but it can be competitive, especially during peak hours. Consider using public transportation or ride-sharing services for a more convenient arrival. TikTok

Many visitors find that taking the TTC subway to the Danforth station and then walking or taking a short bus ride is the most efficient way to reach Danforth Bowl. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Pricing for bowling at Danforth Bowl is typically per hour and can vary. It's best to call ahead or check their social media for the most current rates. Shoe rental is an additional fee. Reddit

Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend disco bowling or if you're planning a party. While walk-ins are sometimes accommodated, booking in advance ensures your spot. TikTokReddit

Yes, Danforth Bowl operates on a cash-only basis for shoe rentals and purchases at the bar. It's essential to bring enough cash with you. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, particularly for special events like disco bowling. It's advisable to check their official channels or call ahead to confirm their operating times for the day you plan to visit. Reddit

Absolutely! Danforth Bowl is a popular spot for birthday parties and private events. Contact them directly to discuss booking options and availability for your group. Reddit+1

🎫 🎳 Onsite Experience

Danforth Bowl features classic 5-pin bowling with smaller balls and manual scorekeeping, offering a truly retro experience. Reddit

Yes, Danforth Bowl serves hot snacks and draft beer. They also offer pizza and other simple fare, perfect for refueling between games. TikTokReddit

Disco bowling nights at Danforth Bowl involve bowling under colorful lights with music, creating a lively and fun atmosphere for groups. Reddit

Yes, Danforth Bowl is very family-friendly and great for kids' parties. They even have ball stands for smaller bowlers. Reddit

The vibe is distinctly retro and nostalgic, with a focus on classic bowling fun. It's a well-kept local institution that offers a unique, old-school experience. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, you're welcome to take photos to capture the fun retro atmosphere and your bowling moments. The disco bowling nights offer particularly vibrant photo opportunities. Reddit

The bowling lanes themselves, especially during disco bowling with the lights, are great for photos. The retro decor and the manual scoring system also make for unique shots. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Danforth Bowl is a fantastic choice for families looking for a fun and unique outing. The 5-pin bowling is perfect for younger children, and the owners are exceptionally accommodating and friendly, making even the most chaotic toddler parties run smoothly. Reddit They offer pizza and snacks that are kid-approved, and the retro atmosphere is a hit with both children and adults. Remember to bring cash for shoe rentals and any treats! Reddit

👫 Couples & Date Nights

For a memorable and quirky date night, Danforth Bowl offers a refreshing alternative to typical entertainment. The intimate setting, combined with the fun of classic bowling and the lively disco bowling nights, creates a unique bonding experience. Reddit It’s a chance to step back in time together, enjoy some friendly competition, and perhaps share some snacks and drinks. Just be sure to bring cash and book in advance! Reddit

🎉 Group Celebrations & Parties

Danforth Bowl is a local institution for celebrations, from birthdays to group get-togethers. The venue is well-organized and can accommodate larger groups, offering a private and fun space for everyone. Reddit The staff are helpful in ensuring your event runs smoothly, and the retro bowling adds an element of nostalgic fun that guests will love. Remember the cash-only policy for seamless transactions. Reddit+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Retro Bowling Experience

Danforth Bowl is a true throwback, offering a unique 5-pin bowling experience that harks back to a simpler time. Forget automated scoring and modern amenities; here, you'll be manually keeping score with paper and pencil, and resetting the pins with the push of a button. This isn't just a bowling alley; it's a step into Toronto's past, a local institution that has been a part of the community since the sixties. Reddit

The atmosphere is cozy and intimate, with a limited number of lanes that contribute to its charm. It's the perfect place for those who appreciate a more authentic, less commercialized bowling outing. The owners are known for being friendly and accommodating, adding to the welcoming, community feel of the place. Reddit

Whether you're celebrating a birthday, enjoying a casual night out with friends, or looking for a unique date idea, Danforth Bowl provides a memorable experience. The emphasis is on fun, connection, and enjoying the classic game in its original form. Reddit

Planning Your Visit: Tips from Locals

To make the most of your trip to Danforth Bowl, heed the advice from those who know it best. Cash is king here; be prepared to pay for shoe rentals and bar purchases with cash, as there's no ATM on-site. Reddit This is a crucial detail that can prevent any last-minute scrambles. Reddit

Reservations are highly recommended, especially if you're planning a group outing or aiming for the popular weekend disco bowling nights. The venue can get booked up quickly, so planning ahead is key to securing your desired time slot. TikTokReddit For families, the owners are noted for being incredibly sweet and accommodating, even with the inevitable toddler chaos, making it a great spot for kids' parties. Reddit

Embrace the retro vibe; the manual scoring and the classic setup are part of the charm. It’s a place that values tradition and offers a genuine, old-school experience. Reddit If you're looking for a unique, fun, and community-oriented activity, Danforth Bowl is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Reddit