Little Italy is soon to have its very own late night hang out. Nightowl Toronto is currently in the works at 647 College St., taking up the former address of the Grotto Lounge.

While you can't tell from the street, the two storey space is currently undergoing renovations as owner Braden Rubinoff strips off the fake cave aesthetic and restores the natural brick.

Drawing inspiration from 7 West and Barcade, Nightowl plans to pimp itself out with old school carnival-type games like skee ball and basketball and may host dance parties. It will join other recreation oriented establishments in the neighbourhood including Snakes & Lagers, and the newly opened Track & Field.

The menu is still a work in progress, but the concept is to serve food flights that will take the current trend of small plates to the next level by offering the chance to sample varied dishes on a theme all at once.

Nightowl is expected to open in June, but it won't operate around the clock at first. While 24/7 is in the cards, expect the bar to be open until at least last call as it gets its feet wet.

Photo of Barcade