updated september 2024
Shhh, keep it on the low. These are our favourite if you know, you know bars and lounges, serving up ice-cold beverages and the most creative cocktails.
560 Johnson St
Image via Artemis Whiskey Bar Instagram
You might have to go looking for this space-themed whiskey bar. This fun speakeasy says that "Riddled with superstition, divination and charms, the port of Artemis located in outer space is a wicked place for whiskey and cocktails. The power of a magical book will unlock the speakeasy place for you. Be sure to choose the right book." If that doesn't grab your attention, we don't know what will! With an extensive list of whiskey and unique cocktails all in a fun space, Artemis Whiskey Bar will definitely be a staple for your nights out.
780 Yates St
Image via CENOTE RESTAURANT AND LOUNGE
This restaurant has atmosphere for days with its brick walls, soft yellow lamps, dim lighting and incredible service. Imagine a New York style dive bar in the heart of Victoria. Don't miss the nachos and margaritas. Beware if you're a lightweight - they make a strong cocktail! Quirky, cool, and just the spot for a night out with friends or your SO.
919 Douglas Street
Big Bad John's
This hillbilly bar has been around in Victoria as long as alcohol has been legal to drink here - literally! The bar originally opened the minute prohibition ended and served BC's first official "legal" martini in 1954. Nearly a decade later, the bar transformed into the hillbilly bar that Big Bad John's is today, and is obviously still going strong. Come on in, "where you can throw your peanut shells on the floor, hang your bra from the rafters, and meet our quirky crew of bartenders and regulars."
714 Cormorant Street
Tora Tiki
This spot makes you feel like you've travelled back in time to 1950s Hawaii. With their tropical selection of themed drinks and appetizers, and karaoke! The karaoke room is a separate section of the bar, and can be booked for up to 10 people at a time.
727 Yates Street
Saint Frank's here
If you're looking for something more than your average bar, Saint Frank's might be for you. Not only does this bar serve dressed-up hot dogs at a decent price, but they have a functioning barber shop operating out of the back. It brings a whole new double meaning to "getting buzzed." You can also head to the back and grab a seat at one of their vintage arcade game tables. There's nothing quite like sipping on a cold beer that your friend had to buy you after you DESTROYED them in a game of PacMan.
804 Broughton Street
Superflux cabana
Say hello to one of downtown Victoria's hot lounges! With a full food menu and draft options for days, they're calling themselves a "nostalgia-filled deli/burger paradise..." which sounds pretty good to us.
740 Burdett Avenue
Clives
Head to Chateau Victoria to find the longest standing cocktail bar in the city! This lounge - named after the founder of the hotel itself - has been nominated for "Best International Hotel Bar" 4 times since 2008. Needless to say, Clive and his team knew the importance of a satisfying drink.
