Introduction: Why Victoria’s Bars Are Basically Adult Playground Zones
If you’ve ever asked, “Where’s the best place to drink in Victoria, BC?”—congrats! You’re about to discover a city that treats bars like they’re part of the tourism board. From craft breweries that could double as art galleries to pubs that feel like they’ve been time-warped from the 1980s, Victoria’s bar scene is a masterclass in “we take this seriously, but not too seriously.” This guide isn’t just a list; it’s your new cheat sheet to avoid the tourist trap of overpriced wine and discover where the locals actually go.
1. The Roost: Where “Rooster” Gets a Whole New Meaning
Location: 615 Fort St, Victoria, BC V8W 2B6
- Standout Feature: Cocktails that make you question why you ever settled for generic “rum and cokes.”
- Pro Tip: Ask the bartender for the “Cranberry Breeze” and prepare for a flavor explosion that’ll make your taste buds do a happy dance.
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2. The Empress Hotel Bar: Because Queen Victoria Demands a Dram
Location: 600 Belleville St, Victoria, BC V8W 1B5
- Standout Feature: A bar with a view that’s basically a postcard from the 1920s.
- Pro Tip: Order the “Empress Old Fashioned” and pretend you’re a British royal who’s just here for casual drinks, not to rule a continent.
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3. The Fox Cabaret: Where the Real Show Is the Bartender
Location: 750 Johnson St, Victoria, BC V8V 1E8
- Standout Feature: A mix of cabaret, drag, and bartending that’s equal parts showbiz and liquid courage.
- Pro Tip: Arrive early (or just don’t show up until 11 PM) for the best chance to see a bartender who moonlights as a stand-up comedian.
4. 7th Heaven: A Rooftop Bar That’s Actually Worth the Hype
Location: 657 Fort St, Victoria, BC V8W 2A3
- Standout Feature: A rooftop bar with views that make you forget you’re in Canada and not, say, a movie set.
- Pro Tip: Order the “Sunset Spritz” and pretend you’re in Bali. The view will help you sell it.
5. The Salty Dog: For When You Want to Pretend You’re a Pirate
Location: 1319 Douglas St, Victoria, BC V8Z 1L4
- Standout Feature: A nautical-themed bar that’s 90% pirate jokes and 10% actual beer.
- Pro Tip: Ask for the “Captain’s Rum” and prepare to be called “matey” for the rest of the night.
6. The Black Thorn: Dark, Moody, and Perfect for Plotting Revenge
Location: 940 Fort St, Victoria, BC V8W 2B7
- Standout Feature: A bar that’s literally called the “Black Thorn” and looks like it’s been cursed since the 1600s.
- Pro Tip: Order the “Vampire’s Blood” and pretend you’re in a goth novel. The lighting helps.
7. The Blue Moon Pub: For the People Who Still Like “Pub Food”
Location: 1011 Fort St, Victoria, BC V8W 2C2
- Standout Feature: A traditional pub with a menu that’s 70% deep-fried everything and 30% “just try it.”
- Pro Tip: Order the “Fish and Chips” and ignore the voice in your head that’s yelling, “This is why you’re paying $15 for a meal.”
8. The Herringbone: Where the Beers Are as Bold as the Decor
Location: 620 Broad St, Victoria, BC V8Z 1K1
- Standout Feature: A bar with a wall of local beers that makes you feel like a sommelier… if sommeliers drank beer instead of wine.
- Pro Tip: Ask the bartender for a “Victoria Special” and pretend you know what you’re doing.
9. The Tap Room at The James: For the Craft Beer Snobs Among Us
Location: 1126 Douglas St, Victoria, BC V8V 1M1
- Standout Feature: A bar that serves so many local craft beers, it’s basically a microbrewery with a side of seating.
- Pro Tip: Order the “Local Legend” and try to name all the breweries. Spoiler: You won’t.
10. The Lighthouse Pub: Because Sometimes You Just Want to Be Seen
Location: 1321 Douglas St, Victoria, BC V8Z 1L9
- Standout Feature: A bar with a view of the lighthouse and a menu that’s 90% “why not just order the entire menu?”
- Pro Tip: Order the “Lighthouse Mule” and pretend you’re in a James Bond movie. The lighting helps.
Frequently Asked Questions About Victoria’s Bar Scene
1. Is there a bar in Victoria that’s actually good for non-tourists?
Yes, all of them. Just avoid the ones near the ferry terminal. Those are tourist traps with prices that make you regret your life choices.
2. Can I get a good cocktail in Victoria?
Yes, but you’ll need to stop at The Roost or 7th Heaven. The rest of the bars are just there for ambiance.
3. What if I’m driving and need to stay sober?
Sell your beer online through Dropt.beer instead. It’s a better idea, and the legal system won’t hate you.
Conclusion: Cheers to Victoria’s Bars (and Your New Bar Agenda)
Victoria’s bar scene isn’t just about drinking—it’s about pretending you’re in a movie where the protagonist is effortlessly cool, ordering rare spirits, and making friends with bartenders who remember your name. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, this list is your new roadmap to the best drinks, the best vibes, and the best excuses to stay out until 2 AM. Now go forth and drink responsibly… or not. We won’t judge. Just don’t spill on the barstool at The Roost. That’s a crime.
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