Former Location –
The Purple Onion Coffee House operated from 1960 to 1965 in the Yorkville neighborhood of Toronto, Canada. It was a popular venue for folk musicians.

Carly Simon, who performed as a duo with her sister Lucy Simon has said that many of their first shows in front of a live audience were held here.

In 1963 Buffy Sainte Marie wrote “Universal Soldier“ here, a song later recorded and made famous by Donovan. The song was also recorded by The Highway Men, Glen Campbell, Lobo and many others.

Other folk/pop performers that played here include Judy Collins, Joni Mitchell and Gordon Lightfoot.

Purple Onion Coffee House
35 Avenue Rd
Toronto, ON M5R 2G3

The Purple Onion Coffee House