Dolly’s, a large country music-focused nightlife venue, is set to open in Toronto at 58 The Esplanade.
The new bar is being developed by brothers Graham Hnatiw and Dan Hnatiw, according to Toronto Life. The project is targeting a Summer 2026 opening, with timelines ranging from late June to July, depending on construction progress. The venue will replace the former Bier Markt space and is expected to accommodate roughly 700 guests indoors and up to 1,000 with the patio. Dolly’s will feature line dancing, live music, and a country-themed nightlife program, with lessons planned on Wednesdays and pre-dance instruction on weekends.
The Hnatiw family also operates the Old Spaghetti Factory and has expanded its presence in the Esplanade area with newer concepts, including Eloise and Bar Cart. Dolly’s continues that expansion within the same downtown corridor. The project represents one of the group’s largest venues to date and builds on its existing hospitality footprint in the neighborhood.
The concept is designed to feel contemporary and entertainment-driven, with branding inspired by Dolly Parton. While country music is central to the identity, the design avoids traditional Western clichés. Instead of rustic décor elements, the space will feature a more modern aesthetic, including unique touches such as a carousel horse from the Old Spaghetti Factory displayed near the entrance. A high-quality sound system is also part of the buildout to support live performances and DJ programming.
Food and beverage will be a major part of the offering, with a strong focus on pizza and late-night slices. A sixth-generation Italian baker is involved in developing the dough, while the cocktail program is being led by Gordon Hannah, formerly of Civil Works. Drinks will emphasize speed of service, with batched cocktails alongside non-alcoholic options and zero-proof beer. The menu will also include comfort-focused items designed for late-night dining.
Live music will play a central role in programming alongside regular dance instruction nights. Fridays and Saturdays will include guided lessons before open dancing, helping to build the venue’s line-dancing culture. The combination of music, food, and structured entertainment is intended to create a consistent nightlife destination for the downtown core.
Dolly’s arrival marks a major addition to The Esplanade’s hospitality scene, further activating a stretch of downtown that has seen steady redevelopment and new venue openings in recent years.
