A friend invited me out to this pub one night a few weeks ago. It's fantastic. If you like the traditional Irish pub atmosphere and friendliness of a small pub, you will love Whelan's! There is live Celtic music Tuesday nights and usually live music of some genre (rock to Celtic), but I really like Russel, who plays covers almost every Friday night. It's just Russel and his guitar and harmonica, but he is really good! :)

The crowd is friendly and fun. There is a close knit group of regulars whom you can spot by their heckling of poor Russel on a Friday night, but it's a great place to have a pint and some fun!

There are two levels and a patio on the sidewalk, as well as a rooftop patio. Each area lends a different feel and gives you a place to hang out away from the crowd and live music.

I will admit I haven't sampled the food, but it is mostly typical pub fair... not much low-cal selection here! :) I have sampled the ales, lagers and ciders and maybe a few shots and they all get the thumbs up! :)

Overall, a great little pub in the west end of Toronto.
One more great thing... it's right on the subway line (bonus!... don't drink and drive!!!).

Great pub for great craic!