If you’re looking for a corner of the city that is bursting with options for where to get drinks, look no further than Yorkville. A swanky part of the city, you’re sure to find all types of bars lining these streets (in between the upscale boutiques, of course). Don’t be intimidated by the posh reputation though. While the establishments are sophisticated, the atmosphere here is are warm and inviting, and the cocktail menus? Well, the cocktail menus are top shelf. Here’s a list of some of the best places to grab a drink in the area!
Hemingway’s – 142 Cumberland Street
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Hemingway’s is a much-beloved Yorkville spot that’s great for after work drinks or to enjoy some rugby. Featuring an open patio in the summer, that’s covered and heated in the winter, you’re able to enjoy that fun and casual atmosphere year round. With a very tasty menu, and an extensive wine and beer list, you’ll soon find out why Hemingway’s is so popular.
Bar Reyna – 158 Cumberland Street
Image via @barreynato on Instagram
A newcomer to Yorkville, Bar Reyna is an instant favourite, offering delicious nosh and a cocktail list that is both extensive and lavish. The Reyna cocktails are something to behold, such as King Arthur’s Concubine (gin, strawberry, basil, lime, and rhubarb bitters) or the Prickly Beach (vodka, Strega, pear, lemon, and lem-marrakech bitters) and who can forget Her Royal Highness (vodka, rum, with hints of saffron, cardamom, and almond syrup, all served in a shiny, metallic, pineapple). You’ll also find the classics including sangria, popular cocktails like a whisky sour or mojito, as well as wine and beer.
The Oxley – 121 Yorkville Avenue
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A classic British pub, the Oxley offers the best in fare from across the pond. Here you’ll find scotch eggs, Welsh rabbit, and the drinks to go along with them. The cocktail list includes lots of fun drinks such as a classic Pimm’s cup, a dark and stormy, as well as a daily featured cocktail. Like any good British pub, a long list of beers, ciders, and wines are also offered. This is a great spot to watch a Manchester United game, enjoy drinks with friends, or host a cosy party.
Buca Osteria – 75 Portland Street
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Buca Yorkville is one of the most popular restaurants in the country. In fact, it came in second place on Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants list. While the cocktails are delicious (such as the Barbabuc – beet-infused vodka with Carpano Classico, apricot, raspberry, lemon and olive oil), you’ll stay for the incredible mediterranean cuisine, and an amazing (mostly Italian) wine list.
The Roof Lounge at the Park Hyatt – 4 Avenue Road
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Offering spectacular views of the city, The Roof Lounge’s menu is what will also grab your attention – especially their luxurious, artisan cocktails. Try the Wild Flower Champagne (Veuve Clicquot and wild hibiscus flower), the Neighbourhood Negroni (gin, Campari, sweet vermouth, and burnt orange twist essence), or the ‘Ultimate’ Gin and Tonic (The Botanist Gin, Fever Free Tonic, cucumber and lime), not to mention a huge selection of scotch, and wine by the bottle or glass.
Proof Vodka Bar & Skylounge at the Intercontinental – 220 Bloor Street West
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The cocktail and martini menu at Proof Vodka Bar is seemingly endless – offering vodka martinis of every flavour and combination, such as a ginger cosmo, toasted cinnamon martini, and a wild blueberry and lychee cocktail. Their vodka wall offers a selection of roughly 25 different vodkas from all around the world. If vodka’s not your thing, you’ll also have plenty of tequilas, cognacs, scotches, ryes, bourbons, wines, and beers to choose from.