Une soirée entre amis à Victoria, BC

There's something about hotel bars that makes it easy to imagine you’re in a distant land, even if you’ve only traveled a few blocks. Victoria has plenty of these establishments – from the elegant Bengal Lounge to the honky-tonk Big Bad John’s, there’s a hotel bar for every taste.

Victoria earned the unofficial title of Canada’s craft beer capital in 1984, when archaic BC liquor laws were overturned, allowing Spinnakers to become the country’s first brewpub. It was once illegal to serve beer in the same building where it was brewed, but thankfully this is no longer the case. With quality brewpubs and plenty of local taps, Victoria is the place for microbrew aficionados to raise a pint.

Whether it’s a classic martini or an artisanal craft cocktail you’re after, Victoria’s rapidly growing mixology scene has you covered. Check out these local bars for an extraordinary libation or two.

Boasting the longest patio season of any Canadian city, Victoria has no shortage of scenic waterfront patios. Whether you’re in the mood for fine dining, pub grub or a slushy cocktail, there’s an outdoor patio for you. Pick one, pull up a chair and watch the world go by.

From the Okanagan vineyards of B.C. to the rolling hills of France, sip your way around the wine regions of the world at these local hot spots. Whether it’s Chardonnay or Pinot Noir that you prefer, you’re sure to find a wine that you won’t soon forget.

If you’re looking to be refreshed and feel sophisticated at the same time, there is no better drink than champagne. With a variety of quality and price options available, it’s helpful to have guidance. Victoria is chock full of venues with knowledgeable staff ready to help you find that perfect glass of bubbly, and celebrate in style.

Watching the game in a friendly pub is almost as good as seeing it live, or better if you prefer cheering your team to victory from a comfy booth with a platter of sizzling hot wings and your favourite beverage. Grab your giant foam finger and a few good friends and join the fun at one of these local sports bars.

Good things come in small packages. That's especially true when you consider how much flavour can be packed into that classic pub-food favourite: the chicken wing. Whether you like 'em hot and spicy or sweet and tangy, chicken wings deliver big taste in a compact form. When you're craving a pile of yummy, sticky, chicken goodness, here's where you'll find it in Victoria.

Caesars are a staple in Canadian cuisine; they're right up there with poutine, Nanaimo bars, maple syrup and Kraft Dinner. The unlikely combination of vodka, Clamato and Worcestershire sauce with some celery, asparagus or even bacon thrown in for the grand finale, doesn't sound like it should work. But it does. Here's where to go in Victoria to enjoy some of the best Caesars in town.

Kick up your heels and let your hair down. It’s time to enjoy a night out with your favourite ladies! We’ve found the best local hangouts – a mix of fun, lively bars and excellent restaurants – for your next girls’ night out in Victoria.

To a whiskey lover, a world of subtle flavours can be found in a single dram. If you want to drink and learn more about whiskey, these pubs are home to some of the best bottles in Victoria. With carefully curated selections and knowledgeable staff to guide you through your choices, here's where you want to go to raise a glass.