Warm your Monday blues with a delicious, classy cocktail!
For those that don’t know, today, May 13th is World Cocktail Day—the perfect opportunity to visit that fancy bar you’ve been meaning to check out and taste something new.
We know Victoria has plenty of neat bar options, so we decided to compile a list of bars in and around Victoria that are both open on Mondays and fantastic.
Without further ado, here’s 10 cocktail bars/restaurants worth visiting for World Cocktail Day:
Artemis Whiskey Bar
This whiskey bar is an experience in and of itself—not are there a multitude of whiskey options, the atmosphere has been specifically curated to match their space theme and whimsical vibes.
As described on their website, it’s riddled with superstition, divination and charms, and is sure to offer a magical space for you and your friends.
They offer a selection of cocktails with spirits such as gin, mezcal, and vodka.
- Where: 560 Johnson Street
- When: Monday, May 13th from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
The Courtney Room
Known for their elegant decor, exclusive atmosphere and extensive food and drink menu, they’re understandably a huge draw for both locals and visitors alike.
To keep things fresh and exciting, they offer a carefully curated list of cocktails that rotates as they season does.
- See also: Downtown Victoria fine dining restaurant receives highest designation for its wine program
Highlights include the Reverse Japanese Martini made with House Sake Vermouth, Sheringham Kazuki gin and blood orange tincture; the Onyx, with Antidote Black Gin, Antica Torino Amaro, house vermouth rouge, Oloroso Sherry, 24K gold and lemon oil; and many more!
- Where: 623 Courtney Street
- When: Monday, May 13th from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Citrus and Cane
If HBO’s White Lotus was a bar, Citrus & Cane would be it.
One of the city’s most iconic and aesthetic cocktail lounges will transport its patrons to another time and place where there are only good vibes and so much rum.
This bar is for those who have a zest for the sweet life as many drinks feature juices and spirits that make truly delicious creations that are refreshing, sweet and of course, citrusy.
If you like pina coladas, tropical cocktails and rum, you will like just about anything on their menu.
- Where: 1900 Douglas Street
- When: Monday, May 13th from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Q Bar at Fairmont Empress
Boasting rich cherry wood ceilings and spectacularly detailed moldings that both honor the past and add a modern twist, Q Bar is a magnificent place to dive into luxury.
Featuring a vibrant selection of signature cocktails, an extensive wine list and enticing local craft beers on tap, you’ll want to stay for while and bask in the atmosphere.
Grab a seat at the bar or settle into a plush couch with friends and prepare to be seduced by the energetic scene!
- Where: 721 Government Street
- When: Monday, May 13th from 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.
LURE Restaurant and Bar
LURE Restaurant & Bar in the Delta Victoria Ocean Pointe Resort offers spectacular views of the harbour and the downtown lights of Victoria as well as a wonderful cocktail menu.
Their signature drinks are carefully crafted and made with freshly squeezed lime and lemon juices to give it a fresh zing!
Their restaurant is described as casual and upbeat, featuring outdoor balconies and an amazing waterfront patio.
- Where: 100 Harbour Road
- When: Monday, May 13th from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Wind Cries Mary
Fresh is the name of the game and Wind Cries Mary is dedicated to ensuring ingredients are as local as possible to ensure guests are getting the best quality!
Their cocktail menu is organized from ‘refreshing to bold,’ so you know exactly what you’re getting into and can customize your experience to preferred taste.
- Where: 45 Bastion Square
- When: Monday, May 13th from 4 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Little Jumbo
Little Jumbo is a local hotspot for those seeking a cozy, urban speakeasy vibe with a chill atmosphere, an imaginative, elevated menu and craft cocktails.
Their cocktail menu is always rotating, so no matter how often you go there will always be something new to try!
- Where: 506 Fort Street #102
- When: Monday, May 13th from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Rudi
Inspired by tastes, sights and wonders from all over the world, Rudi brings this experience home to the coast for all to enjoy.
- See also: Sharing is caring: New Victoria eatery blends European flavours with local ingredients (PHOTOS)
The cocktails are simple, yet elegant—most of which are a unique riff on a classic such as a Pimm’s cup or an old fashioned.
Their cocktail menu has a “before” and “after dinner” section as well for a nice aperitif of either sherry or a vermouth cocktail, whereas the digestifs options are a bit more rich to pair well with a dessert such as the sticky toffee pudding.
- Where: 710 Pandora Avenue
- When: Monday, May 13th from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Fathom
At Fathom, you’ll find a contemporary and upscale west coast-inspired restaurant and lounge with fantastic views of the Inner Harbour.
Their lounge offers a unique list of cocktails, made with great attention and detail with the finest ingredients.
They’re also known for their exclusive whiskey selection, don’t forget to ask them about it, they’ll be happy to tell you about what they offer!
- Where: 463 Belleville Street
- When: Monday, May 13th from 7 a.m. to 12 a.m.
Be Love
Be Love is located in the heart of downtown Victoria and offers an upscale and modern, farm-to-table vegan cuisine experience with superfood cocktails.
Their menu changes depending on seasonal availability from local sources, and everything is made from at least 95 percent organic plant-based ingredients.
- Where: 1019 Blanshard Street
- When: Monday, May 13th from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.
