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Not-So-Pour Decisions: The 10 Best Bars in Ontario Where Every Drink Tells a Story
I can’t remember the last time I held up my index finger to point “Up” since—just recently—I’ve been using it solely to signal the bartender for one more (okay, maybe one too many times).
Admittedly, I may have enjoyed this research way too much, but who can blame me? From classic bars to those hush-hush speakeasies where you need a secret handshake, Ontario’s drinking scene is a treasure trove of hidden gems and unforgettable experiences.
So, get your pre-game on and join me on a tour of Ontario’s best bars where the cocktails are creative, the atmosphere is buzzing, and the stories are worth telling.
Bar Pompette
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Address: 607 College St, Toronto
Contact details: [email protected]
Opening hours:
- Sunday to Thursday: 5 PM – 1 AM
- Friday to Saturday: 5 PM – 2 AM
Pricing: $$
Bar Pompette strikes the perfect balance between elegance and comfort, with a subtle French flair that transports you to Paris without leaving Toronto. The space feels open and cozy, thanks to its high ceilings, soft lighting, and minimalist design.
The real standout, though, is the drink menu. Every cocktail is carefully made, with unique flavours and attention to detail that you don’t always find, even in a city like Toronto. Whether you’re into a strong classic or something more experimental with syrups and cool infusions, there’s something for you.
Pair that with their French-inspired small plates (oysters, croque monsieur—you know the vibe), and it all comes together in a way that feels both refined and totally laid-back.
Pro tip:
For a front-row seat to all the action, grab a spot at the bar. You can watch the bartenders carefully craft each drink, don’t hesitate to ask for their recommendations—they’ll whip up something personalized just for you.
Blind Owl
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Address: 430 Ouellette Ave, Windsor
Contact details: +1 519-965-0093
Opening hours:
- Thursday: 7 PM – 12 AM
- Friday to Saturday: 7 PM – 1 AM
Pricing: $$
Hidden away on Ouellette Avenue, Blind Owl in Windsor brings an effortlessly cool, speakeasy vibe to the heart of downtown. From the outside, you might miss it if you’re not paying close attention—but that’s part of its charm.
Stepping inside, you’re greeted by a warm, dimly lit space that feels like a retreat from the city hustle. It’s intimate but not cramped, offering the perfect backdrop for conversation without having to shout over loud music.
The bar menu at Blind Owl is a real highlight, especially if you’re into craft cocktails. Whether you’re craving an Old Fashioned, a Negroni, or one of their own signature drinks, every cocktail is top-tier. They’ve also got a solid lineup of local beers and wines, so there’s something for everyone.
Pro tip:
Since it’s a speakeasy, it can be tricky to spot. Look for an unlabeled door just to the right of the Four Points.
Desi Bar & Grill (Mississauga)
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Address: 925 Rathburn Rd E, Mississauga
Contact details: +1 905-232-6788
Opening hours:
- Sunday to Thursday: 5 PM – 1 AM
- Friday: 4 PM – 2 AM
- Saturday: 4 PM – 3 AM
Pricing: $$
If you’re looking for a spot that perfectly blends a love of sports with bold Indian flavours, Desi Bar & Grill in Mississauga is where it’s at. This is a lively, buzzing bar that takes the typical sports bar experience up a notch with an Indian twist.
But don’t be fooled by the sporty ambiance—the food here is the real star. You’ll find everything from classic Indian street food like chaat to more substantial offerings like tandoori wings and spicy lamb kebabs.
And what’s a game without drinks? The bar has a solid mix of local beers and cocktails, many of which, like the Desi Mule, incorporate Indian spices and flavours. It’s the perfect combo of familiar pub drinks and something a little more adventurous.
Pro tip:
If you’re not in the mood for alcohol, they also offer delicious mocktails that pack a flavorful punch.
Aulde Dubliner & Pour House – ByWard Market
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Address: 62 William St, Ottawa
Contact details: +1 613-241-0066
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 11 AM – 2 AM
Pricing: $$
Stepping into Aulde Dubliner in Ottawa’s ByWard Market is like being transported straight to the streets of Dublin. The place has that quintessential Irish pub vibe—warm, cozy, and always bustling with activity.
It’s a two-story gem, with the ground floor serving up more of a social, high-energy scene, while the upstairs Pour House offers a more laid-back, intimate setting. In the summer, the patio is a prime spot to soak up the lively ByWard Market atmosphere while sipping on a cold brew.
The menu is what you’d expect from a proper pub—hearty, comforting dishes like shepherd’s pie, fish and chips, and bangers and mash. Pair that with a perfectly poured pint of Guinness or one of the many local craft beers, and you’ve got the full experience.
Pro tip:
Check out their website for upcoming events—usually live music—so you can plan your visit if you’re in the mood for some good tunes.
Rabbit Hole
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Address: 208 Sparks St., Ottawa
Contact details: +1 613-695-0500
Opening hours:
- Monday: 5 PM – 12 AM
- Tuesday to Thursday: 11:30 AM – 12 AM
- Friday: 11:30 AM – 2 AM
- Saturday: 5 PM – 2 AM
Pricing: $$
Rabbit Hole offers a stylish but relaxed vibe that’s a standout in the city’s bar scene. Upstairs is chic and modern, while the speakeasy-style downstairs adds a bit of mystery, making it great for both after-work drinks and weekend outings.
The cocktails are the real highlight here, with a focus on fresh, creative drinks that go beyond the usual. The menu changes regularly, so there’s always something new, whether you’re into classics or trying something more unique.
What also makes Rabbit Hole special is its food menu. It’s more than just your average bar snack. You’ll find an elevated selection of dishes—think truffle fries, gourmet sliders, and charcuterie boards—all of which are designed to complement the drinks.
Pro tip:
Be sure to ask the bartender for off-menu cocktail suggestions—they love getting creative and personalizing your drink based on what you’re in the mood for.
The Brain Bar
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Address: 199 James St N, Hamilton
Contact details: +1 289-396-8508
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 12 PM – 2 AM
Pricing: $$
The Brain Bar on Hamilton’s James Street North feels like the kind of place where you’re instantly part of the community. With mismatched furniture, quirky artwork, and a creative, welcoming atmosphere, it’s got a unique charm that draws in locals, especially the artsy crowd.
You might even end up chatting with someone about their latest project or an upcoming event. The rotating taps showcase some of Ontario’s best craft beers, and the snacks are simple but hit the spot—think grilled cheese or popcorn.
It’s a great spot to grab a pint, relax, and enjoy the music, which always feels perfectly chosen for the setting.
Pro tip:
For a chill night with friends, grab one of the board games stacked by the windows. Pair your game with a local craft brew, and you’ve got the recipe for a perfect, laid-back evening.
Babylon Sisters Bar
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Address: 23 King St N, Waterloo
Contact details: +1 519-601-8226
Opening hours:
- Sunday to Thursday: 12 PM to 10 PM
- Friday to Saturday: 12 PM to 11 PM
Pricing: $$
Babylon Sisters feels like a hidden gem where you can unwind after a long day or catch up with friends over a glass of wine. The space blends minimalist chic with exposed brick and warm lighting, creating a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere that’s great for both casual outings and quiet dates.
The real draw here is the impressive wine list. They focus on natural, organic, and biodynamic options, so whether you’re a wine expert or just starting to explore, you’ll find something exciting.
Not into wine? They also offer craft beers and creative cocktails to suit any taste. Their small plates are perfect for sharing, with options like artisan cheeses, charcuterie boards, and seasonal bites that complement their wines beautifully.
Pro tip:
Try their wine flights if you want to explore different varieties without committing to a full glass. It’s a fun way to discover new favorites, and the staff loves to offer recommendations based on your preferences.
Bar Raval
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Address: 505 College St, Toronto
Contact details: [email protected]
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 11 AM – 1 AM
Pricing: $$$
Bar Raval is a real find. As soon as you walk in, it feels like you’ve been transported to a Spanish tapas bar. The interior, with its curvy wooden design inspired by Gaudí, is something you don’t see every day in Toronto.
The standing-room-only setup encourages mingling, and it’s all part of the fun. You’ll want to grab a few tapas to share (the jamón is a must) and pair it with one of their expertly crafted cocktails.
Plus, the atmosphere here is always lively, especially on weekends when the place is packed with locals and visitors alike. It’s a true communal experience, and the energy in the room is contagious.
Pro tip:
Don’t be shy about sharing your space at the bar. Part of Bar Raval’s charm is the communal vibe, so grab a few plates to share, order a vermouth, and enjoy the energy of the crowd around you.
Civil Liberties
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Address: 878 Bloor St W, Toronto
Contact details: +1 416-546-5634
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 6 PM – 2 AM
Pricing: $$
Civil Liberties is where cocktail dreams come true. The bar doesn’t bother with menus because the bartenders are that good. They’ll ask you what flavours, spirits, or vibes you’re in the mood for, then whip up something completely custom.
It’s a rare, personal experience in the world of cocktails, and each drink feels like a bespoke creation made just for you. The bar itself is intimate, with simple, unassuming décor that puts the focus entirely on the drinks.
The bartenders are as friendly as they are skilled, making the whole experience feel less like ordering a drink and more like discovering a new favourite concoction. And because the drinks are custom-made, every visit feels exciting—you never know what you’re going to get, but you can trust it’ll be great.
Pro tip:
If you’re unsure of what you’re in the mood for, just describe a flavor or mood, and let the bartenders take it from there. They love the challenge and won’t disappoint.
Bar Hop Brewco
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Address: 137 Peter St, Toronto
Contact details: +1 647-348-1137
Opening hours:
- Monday to Wednesday: 4 PM – 12 AM
- Thursday: 4 PM – 1 AM
- Friday: 4 PM – 2 AM
- Saturday: 12 PM – 2 AM
- Sunday: 12 PM – 12 AM
Pricing: $$
Bar Hop Brewco is a haven for craft beer lovers, offering one of the most extensive selections of local and international brews in the city. With over 30 beers on tap, including a selection of their own house brews, you’ll never run out of new things to try.
The food menu is a step above your usual pub fare, offering creative takes on comfort food that’s designed to pair perfectly with beer. Think duck confit poutine, BBQ wings, and gourmet burgers.
Not to mention, the rooftop patio is a hidden gem in the warmer months, offering a chill space to enjoy your drinks while overlooking the city.
Pro tip:
Head straight to the rooftop patio during the summer—it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a cold brew with a view.
