#FOOD: CASSETTE RETRO-INSPIRED RESTAURANT OPENS OCTOBER 25, 2025 IN TORONTO

Cassette, a new retro-inspired restaurant and venue, is set to open Oct. 25 at 1214 Queen Street W., taking over the former Melody Bar space inside the iconic Gladstone House. Designed to feel intimate and effortlessly stylish, Cassette will blend nostalgic soul with modern energy, serving as a place to gather, celebrate, and stay late. More than just a restaurant, Cassette will be a welcoming space for local artists and performers, where creativity is always welcome.

Building on this spirit, Cassette will carry on Gladstone House’s legacy as a gathering place for locals, introducing a lively, community-focused venue that will feature classic food and dynamic programming. “We wanted to create a space where you feel immediately welcome, whether you’re popping in for a casual martini, a celebratory dinner or sticking around for a dance party,” says Alicia Too, Regional General Manager of Gladstone House & The Broadview Hotel.

“We want Cassette to be a home base for creative expression,” adds Shivani Lakhanpal, Chief Operating Officer, Archive Hospitality Group. “You can come for dinner and stay for the show, or stumble onto something totally unexpected just by showing up.”

Inspired by the golden age of diners and classic cocktail bars, the space features layered lighting, communal seating, cozy booths, and romantic accents that evoke a warm, lived-in charm. The space also features a raised stage and impressive sound setup, designed to host everything from lively karaoke nights to intimate live performances.

The menu will showcase a refined twist on beloved diner classics. Guests can expect comfort-driven favourites reimagined with a modern edge, including the iconic Gladstone Burger, an indulgent play on Pigs in a Blanket, and a delicate Pan-Fried trout finished with fragrant herb oil. Each dish reflects a thoughtful approach to familiar flavours, offering a dining experience that feels both timeless and new.

The drink menu showcases a distinctive wine program that spotlights unexpected finds and under-the-radar varietals, paired with inventive house cocktails and reimagined classics for every palate. A dedicated martini section—anchored by the dirtiest martini in the neighborhood—adds to the mix, alongside Happy Hour, Industry Nights, and themed features designed for celebration and spontaneity.

Cassette’s programming will spotlight live performances, artist showcases, and cultural happenings in Toronto’s West End. Guests can expect a mix of concerts, drag performances, themed nights, and special events celebrating music and art. The calendar will highlight local talent while introducing both recurring and one-of-a-kind experiences—most notably a monthly Dinner & Drag Show residency with Toronto icon Tynomi Banks. Community-focused programming, such as chess nights and other cultural gatherings, will further position Cassette as a place to connect, create, and celebrate.

The launch of Cassette marks an exciting new chapter for Archive Hospitality as it continues to grow as the management team for Dream Unlimited’s hospitality assets. “This represents an exciting evolution for Archive Hospitality and Dream’s hotel portfolio. It reaffirms our commitment to creating culture-forward, community-centered spaces,” says Krystal Koo, Head of Sales and Marketing for Dream Unlimited Corp.

Cassette will officially open to the public on Oct. 25 and will operate seven days a week from 5 p.m. until late. Dinner service will run from 5 p.m. – 9 p.m., followed by a late-night snack menu. For more information, visit www.cassetteto.com

Connect with Cassette
Website: www.cassetteto.com
Instagram: @gladstonehouseto & @cassette.toronto

About Gladstone House
Located in Toronto’s West Queen West neighbourhood, Gladstone House is a historic boutique hotel and cultural landmark, originally established in 1889. Following a thoughtful restoration, the property blends preserved architectural features, such as exposed brick and original hardwood floors, with contemporary design elements, including curated local artwork and dynamic lighting installations. A hub for creativity and community, the hotel offers unique accommodations, event spaces, and programming. The new on-site restaurant and venue, Cassette, will offer a regularly programmed lineup of live performances, karaoke, and late-night events, enhancing the guest experience with a vibrant, inclusive atmosphere that reflects the spirit of the neighbourhood. To learn more about the Gladstone House visit gladstonehouse.ca.

About Archive Hospitality Group

Archive Hospitality Group operates Gladstone House, The Broadview Hotel and The Postmark Hotel. They are curators committed to creating a collection of unforgettable places that locals love, travelers seek out, and communities feel proud to call their own. While each of their iconic properties has its own distinct character and style, they are united by a shared ethos: a commitment to creating memorable experiences through care, creativity, and a level of service that consistently sets them apart. To learn more about Archive Hospitality Group, visit archivehospitality.com.