Beerbistro remains one of the bars with the best beer selection in Toronto, as well as one of the most reliable places to get bistro classics like steak frites and mussels, not to mention late night poutine.

They’ve been here since 2009, and the beer knowledge runs so deep that they actually host the Golden Tap Awards at this location.

It’s a classy affair near lots of offices and hotels with high ceilings, and the interior has undergone some renovations over the years.

Tabletops and furniture have been replaced, and the bar’s been taken apart so its swoop offers more space. A massive group of chandeliers now draws the eye upward.

Over a hundred bottles are stocked, though the majority of beer on offer is seasonal. They like to say they might not have the brand you’re looking for, but the style you want.

You probably won’t be able to find your basic Heine here but can get a recommendation for something similar and likely much better. The beverage menu is focused more on flavour profiles and moods rather than regions.

Brussels-style mussels ($20) are one of four typical options steamed in beer broth and served with a loaf of freshly baked sourdough. These are festooned with a confetti of smoked sausage, tomato, chili, fennel, garlic and parsley for an addictive bowl of plump and juicy shellfish.

Mad Cow poutine ($15) is part of a tiny late night brasserie menu of poutines, all made with their signature Belgian frites blanched in beef tallow and duck fat.

This one is topped with gouda, beef cheek, and ubiquitous chicken gravy for a poutine that goes way beyond even what Smoke’s could dream up.

The Dirty Bird ($14) is kind of like a mashup between two iconic bar foods, wings and poutine. It’s topped with blue cheese, chicken tenders, buffalo butter and ranch for a delightfully sinful snack.

The Waterfowl ($16) probably takes the cake for me, topped with luxurious goat cheese, caramelized onions and duck confit for a rich and fatty late night treasure.

They only start serving this poutine at 11 p.m. (and 10 p.m. on Sundays), so you have just a short window to enjoy these indulgent eats.

A pint of Collective Arts IPA No. 3 does me just fine for accompanying all the rich bar food, light enough to crush but still flavourful and punchy at 7.1%.

This place also goes all out for Oktoberfest and does brunch with smoked beer Caesars and beer mimosas, and a patio off to the side essentially doubles Beerbistro’s capacity in warm weather.