Toronto cocktail bar closes after rising costs pressure business
Toronto cocktail bar closure highlights rising costs and shrinking margins See why Electric Bill shut down and what it signals for local hospitality
A Toronto cocktail bar called Electric Bill has closed after just over two years on Bloor Street West, despite having loyal customers and a good location.
Owner Casey Ryan said rising expenses made the business unsustainable. He cited higher food, alcohol, rent, gas, hydro and wage costs, along with expensive patio fees that led the bar to skip opening its patio this year.
The closure reflects broader pressure on bars and restaurants in Toronto and across Canada. Industry data and advocacy groups say many operators are struggling with thin margins, lower sales and declining profitability.