TOP COCKTAIL BARS
Victoria may be famous for afternoon tea and beautiful gardens, but when the sun goes down, the city has a seriously good cocktail scene.
From polished hotel lounges to intimate neighbourhood bars and creative spots tucked away in Old Town, there’s no shortage of places to sip something special.
Whether you’re looking for a perfectly crafted classic, a creative cocktail made with local ingredients, or simply a great spot for a night out, Victoria has some of the top cocktail bars in the COUNTRY!
1) CITRUS AND CANE
Citrus & Cane brings a little tropical escape to downtown Victoria, with a cocktail menu inspired by the flavours of the Caribbean and beyond.
Think rum-forward drinks, bold tropical flavours, and a lively atmosphere that makes it an easy choice for a fun night out.
Whether you’re a rum lover or just looking for something a little different, this is a spot worth checking out.
2) CLIVE'S CLASSIC LOUNGE
A true Victoria cocktail institution, Clive’s Classic Lounge is the place to go when you’re looking for a beautifully made classic cocktail and a little old-school sophistication.
Tucked inside the Chateau Victoria, Clive’s has an extensive cocktail menu, knowledgeable bartenders, and a cozy lounge atmosphere that makes settling in for “just one drink” surprisingly difficult.
3) CENOTE RESTAURANT & LOUNGE
Cenote is a fun, laid-back addition to Victoria’s cocktail scene, bringing together creative drinks, good food, and a lively atmosphere.
The menu leans playful and approachable, making it a great spot to drop in with friends for a cocktail or two without the formality of a traditional cocktail lounge.
Tucked away underground on Yates Street, Cenote is the place to be.
4) WIND CRIES MARY
Wind Cries Mary is one of Victoria’s most atmospheric cocktail bars, tucked into a cozy space in the heart of Old Town.
Known for its creative cocktails, moody setting, and excellent food, it’s the kind of place that feels equally suited to a date night or a long evening catching up with friends. The cocktails are thoughtful without feeling pretentious, with plenty of interesting flavours to keep things fun.
Come for the unique space, stay for the craftsmanship.
5) HUMBOLDT BAR
Humboldt Bar is a stylish, intimate lounge that puts a creative spin on the classic cocktail bar. With a thoughtfully curated drink menu, knowledgeable bartenders, and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s a great place to settle in and try something you might not order elsewhere.
Pair your cocktail with a bite from the kitchen and you’ve got all the ingredients for a memorable night out. They’ve also been named on Canada’s 100 Best Bars!
Of course, every food lover has their own favourites, and that’s exactly what makes exploring a city’s culinary scene so much fun!
The pubs featured here are simply our personal picks based on our own experiences, and we know there are plenty of other hidden gems out there!
Have a favourite we should check out? We’d love to hear from you! Send us a message or connect with us on social media—you might even see your recommendation featured in a future blog…
