Hy’s Steakhouse

365 Bay Street, Toronto, ON M5H 2V1

White tablecloths, cold martinis, and tableside flambée: Hy’s Steakhouse is a Toronto institution where classic chophouse tradition meets modern hospitality. Housed in an 18,000-square-foot former bank building, the Bay Street location blends grandeur with accessibility, offering a dining experience that feels both iconic and inclusive.

Inside, Hy’s spreads across three levels, all accessible by elevators. The foyer and reception area provide easy turning space, though pathways to the upstairs accessible washroom can feel tight with a few sharp turns. Standard tables are 29 inches high and all chairs are movable, making it possible to adjust seating as needed. Booths in the downstairs lounge and quieter mezzanine spaces offer varied seating options, and there’s plenty of room to enjoy a meal, whether it’s a business lunch or a game-day celebration.

Accessible private washrooms are available on both the lower and upper levels, with elevator service to each. Each washroom is fully enclosed (not a stall) and opens with an automatic button. Inside, there’s an automatic flusher, soap dispenser, and one slip-resistant grab bar positioned at 60 cm. The sink height is 71 cm, though clearance underneath is limited at 9 cm. Space inside is adequate for turning, and the door width meets accessibility standards.

Lighting inside is dim, adding to the steakhouse’s moody atmosphere, but background noise is kept at a low, comfortable level. Staff are a standout here, they are attentive, welcoming, and eager to provide support for guests with physical, visual, or hearing needs. Menus and signage are easy to read, service animals are welcome, and accommodations can be requested for seating, lighting, or space for assistive devices.

Overall, Hy’s Steakhouse combines its storied tradition with a clear commitment to accessibility. While parking may be a challenge and some pathways feel a bit snug, the automatic doors, elevator access to all levels, and private accessible washrooms make the space functional for a wide range of guests. Paired with attentive staff and a warm, inclusive atmosphere, Hy’s delivers on its promise of steakhouse dining that everyone can enjoy.

As part of Hy’s broader corporate commitment, all Canadian locations undergo monthly accessibility audits, with staff training and service standards guided by AODA compliance and best practices. This approach reinforces what’s already felt at the Bay Street location, accessibility isn’t an afterthought, but part of the culture of hospitality.

Transit access is excellent. Both Queen Station (500 m) and Osgoode Station (450 m) on Line 1 are fully accessible, and several TTC buses, like the 301 Westbound (Stop #: 10892) and streetcar routes, like the 501 (Stop # 16578) stops are within a short walk. While there’s no accessible street parking directly outside, drop-off space is available on Adelaide Street. The ground-level entrance is step-free, with automatic doors that open wide into a spacious foyer. Sidewalks are smooth and unobstructed, though lighting outside can feel dim in the evening.

Accessibility at a Glance

●      Nearest Transit: Queen Station (Line 1 – 500 m) & Osgoode Station (Line 1 – 450 m), both accessible

●      Parking: No accessible street parking; drop-off available on Adelaide Street

●      Entrance: Ground-level, step-free access; wide automatic doors into foyer

●      Interior: Elevator access to all three levels; standard 29 in tables; movable chairs; pathways snug in some areas

●      Washrooms: Accessible private washrooms on lower and upper levels with automatic openers, slip-resistant grab bar (60 cm), limited under-sink clearance (9 cm), and adequate turning space

●      Customer Service: Attentive staff trained in accessibility; service animals welcome; accommodations available for seating, lighting, and assistive devices

●      Sensory Features: Low background music; dim atmospheric lighting; signage and menus easy to read