Cocktail Culture

A curated list of the best Downtown drinks

Lily of the Valley at Alchemy Bar

Located behind a bookcase on the 5th floor of the JW Marriot Hotel is Alchemy Bar, another hidden cocktail lounge. This little gem has an extensive cocktail menu that is sure to please even the pickiest drinkers. We love the cocktail sour Lily of the Valley made with Empress gin, Koukoudo mastic liqueur, lemon, honey and mint. 10344 102 St

Purple Reign at The Confederation Lounge

It’s fitting that the Purple Reign is the queen of cocktails at Edmonton’s castle on the hill, Fairmont Hotel Macdonald. Made with Botanist gin, maraschino liqueur and a giant blue tea ice cube, this purple-tinted cocktail is begging for photo opps, just like the stunning views of the Edmonton River Valley you’ll catch from the hotel’s patio. 10065 100 St

The Bollywood Drama at Guru Kitchen + Bar

When your tastebuds need awakening, pay visit to Guru Kitchen + Bar. Mixologist Gurjeet Khaira has developed a wildly inventive cocktail menu that’s in constant evolution. (Er, the last time we counted there were 20 cocktails to choose from.) The Bollywood Drama (gin passionfruit, lemon zest and Himalayan pink salt) never tasted so good. Whatever drink you end up with, you’re in good hands. 10111 104 Ave

Healing Potion #5 at DOSC

DOSC is a must-visit spot for anyone who is on the hunt for a killer cocktail and dining experience combined. The Healing Potion #5, made with a tasty mix of herbal notes, pink peppercorn infused gin, chartreuse, cranberry honey ginger syrup, lemon and lime, packs a light, refreshing punch. 10190 104 St

Toki Hi-ball at Dorinku Osaka

Japanese whisky has become incredibly popular in Edmonton over the last few years. Luckily for us, Dorinku Osaka carries more than 10 different brands. What’s different about Japanese whisky versus others? It’s all in their distilling process. Depending on the brand, the Japanese whisky tastes bolder and drier with smoky finish. The whisky-based Toki Hi-ball, balanced with yuzu and rose aroma, is one of Dorinku’s best sipping drinks. 10328 Jasper Ave

Red Sea at Woodwork

Cocktail connoisseurs can’t go wrong at Woodwork. The impressive bar at this restaurant does a lot of things fantastically, including more than seven variations on a classic Old Fashioned. Of the house cocktails, try the Red Sea with Pisco, Aperol, coconut, orange, lime, bahrat spice and nutmeg. 10132 100 St

Spiked Hot Chocolate at The Common

There’s nothing more you’ll love more than chillin’ with a steaming cup of Spiked Hot Chocolate from The Common. Seriously, who isn’t down with cocoa, chartreuse and Kaluha? On warmer winter days, it’s the perfect drink for their heated patio. This laidback restaurant is a keen staple to Edmonton’s nightlife. Whether you’re here for a quick bite, fun ambiance or hyped tunes, The Common will show you how to have a good time. 9910 109 St

Malibu Sangria at The Parlour Italian Kitchen & Bar

Looking for something on the sweeter side? Perhaps something a bit more refreshing? The Malibu Sangria at The Parlour Italian Kitchen & Bar will do the trick with its perfect notes of peaches, orange blossoms and blackberry passionfruit. It’s our go-to cocktail especially on a summer evening when The Parlour patio is in full swing, complete with a roaring outdoor fireplace. 10334 108 St

Last Days in Vietnam at Baijiu

Crowned the World’s Best Bartender of 2021, James Grantis slinging drinks behind the bar at Baijiu. Hip-hop beats and dim lighting will get you in the mood for Asian-inspired cocktails. The Last Day in Vietnam is the perfect mix of something light, boozy and sophisticated. 10359 104 St

The Duchess at The Lobby Bar

The drinks and service are so good at The Lobby Bar at JW Marriott hotel that you’ll want to stay overnight. Grab a seat on a sofa and order yourself The Duchess – rose-infused Tanqueray gin, a splash of Maison Idiart wine, lavender syrup, freshly squeezed lemon and vanilla bean. Best of all Happy Hour at The Lobby Bar runs every day from 11:30 am to 5pm for food and drinks. 10344 102 St

Pablo Cocktail Lounge

You may have trouble finding Pablo Cocktail Lounge if you’re walking down Jasper Ave. Arguably one of the best speakeasies Downtown, there’s no signage, just an address. Pass through the front doors and down a flight of stairs, you’ll end up in this secret spot where bartenders whip up margaritas of all type. Every week is a new menu meaning you’re going come back again and again.  The secret’s out. 10432 Jasper Ave