Sub-Zero Nightclubs

While Canadians are accustomed to the cold, navigating the icy streets of Toronto when its 30 degrees below zero is never a pleasant experience. Fortunately, there is a place where Torontonians can experience the cold in a much more enjoyable – and sophisticated – way.

CHILL Ice House is a sub-zero nightclub located at the bustling interaction of King and Bathurst. The club is the brainchild of Gresham Bayley, who modelled the idea after spending several years building ice installations around the globe with his uncle's ice business IceCulture. Taking the idea to the extreme, Gresham has created the ultimate ice experience for the city's most discerning drinkers.

CHILL is a 1,200-suare-foot space that is consistently kept at a nippy five degrees below zero. Upon entry, guests are given colorful capes and gloves to keep the cold at bay and digital wristbands that track their purchases throughout their visit. After donning the requisite attire, guests can make their way to the bar, where they can enjoy delicious cocktails in handcrafted ice cups.

Naturally, the drinks aren’t the only draw at the sub-zero lounge. CHILL also provides a unique drinking atmosphere as everything from the walls to the chandelier are hand-sculpted from ice. The décor in the lounge can also be changed to complement different occasions, meaning CHILL has quickly become the coolest and most coveted venue for private and corporate events in Toronto.

Of course, for those who can only stand the cold for so long, there is also a warmed speakeasy tucked into the back of the lounge. This room provides a cozy contrast to the ice bar, with warm drinks such as hot apple cider and flat screen TVs displaying the flickering flames of the fireplace channel.

While the idea of enjoying a cocktail atop a block of ice may sound like an unusual way to spend an evening, the CHILL Ice House demonstrates that partying inside a frozen palace really is the coolest way to unwind.