8 of the best whisky bars across Canada

by Eva Kurilova
Every city in Canada has its share of bars that pay homage to whisky, and choosing from among this stellar selection can be tough. If you’re looking for the top places to sit down and properly enjoy a dram, then you can’t go wrong with the standout whisky bars on this list. [Image credit: iStock.com/puchkovo48]

N sur Mackay in Montréal is an absolutely charming, whisky-focused bar that also offers plenty of delicious cocktails for the non-whisky drinkers in your group. The 1920s ambiance here has a flamboyant, glitzy and glammed-up feel to it, perfect for the numerous weekly events that pack the bar with regulars and visitors.

True to Calgary’s western roots, Hayden Block Smoke & Whiskey pairs globally sourced whiskies with true-Texas barbecue. Hand-crafted whisky cocktails and a menu of barbecue classics, such as smoked brisket and slow-cooked pork ribs, will keep you wanting to come back for more. Beer fans can also enjoy a selection of international and local craft beers.

Appropriately located in Gastown, Shebeen Whiskey House offers one of the largest selections of whisky in all of Vancouver. Here, you’re likely to find a variety of whiskies that you perhaps never even heard of before. Though a smaller location, Shebeen’s is very much worth the visit. The decor and ambience will have you feeling like you’ve been transported to Dublin.

On the other side of the country we have Char No.5 Canadian Whisky Bar, easily one of the best places to enjoy a whisky in Toronto. What’s unique about Char No. 5 is that it focuses heavily on local Canadian whiskies. You can choose to have your whisky as a single, a double or as a series of four flights.

You know you can look forward to some good whisky at a pub named after the Scottish Highlands. At the Highlander Pub in Ottawa you’ll not only find a great selection of whiskies, but also a menu full of amazing dishes such as Scottish fried chicken and roasted red potatoes. For a casual atmosphere and a fun night out, you’ll want to visit the Highlander Pub.

Since 1989, the Lunar Rogue Pub in Fredericton has been providing patrons with an authentic maritime pub experience. Not only is the food incredible (you need to try the fish cakes and fish tacos), but you’ll also find an extensive menu of over 500 different Premium Blends and Single Malts accompanied by helpful descriptions.

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Don’t let the name put you off – Death Valley’s Little Brother is a Waterloo whisky and espresso bar with an incredible selection of both types of libations. Stop by earlier in the day to get buzzed with an espresso and a delicious dessert, and swing by later to wind down and take it easy with a quality Scotch in hand.

Last but in no way least on our tour is Malt City Whisky & Beer in Regina. Old school charm mingles with an upscale feel in the beautiful Regina heritage building that houses this bar. The malt-inspired menu contains over 85 whiskies, with plenty of fantastic food and dessert options as well. You simply can’t leave without trying one of the malt-based craft cocktails.

These eight excellent bars from all over the country prove that Canada knows how to do whisky.