Uncorking the Best Happy Hour Deals in London, Ontario
As a proud resident of London, Ontario, I’ve spent my fair share of evenings exploring the vibrant culinary and social scene this city has to offer. And let’s be honest, there’s no better way to experience it than during happy hour! Whether you’re a local looking for a new go-to spot or a visitor wanting to get a taste of London’s charm without breaking the bank, this guide is for you. We’re diving deep into the best happy hour deals, hidden gems, and must-try experiences across our Forest City.
Why Happy Hour in London, ON is a Must-Do
London, Ontario, might not be the biggest city, but it punches well above its weight when it comes to fantastic dining and drinking establishments. Our city boasts a diverse range of restaurants, pubs, and bars, from trendy downtown eateries to cozy neighborhood joints. Happy hour is the perfect opportunity to sample these spots, enjoy delicious appetizers, and savor expertly crafted drinks at a fraction of the regular price. It’s a social ritual, a chance to unwind after a long day, and a fantastic way to explore different flavors of London.
Downtown London: The Heartbeat of Happy Hour
Downtown London is where much of the city’s action happens, and its happy hour scene is no exception. You’ll find a concentration of popular spots, making it easy to hop between places or settle in for a longer evening.
1. The Early Bird Specials: Kickstart Your Evening
Many downtown establishments offer early happy hours, typically starting around 3 PM or 4 PM. These are perfect for those finishing work a bit early or looking for a pre-dinner drink and snack.
- Joe Kool’s: A London institution, Joe Kool’s on Richmond Street is legendary for its lively atmosphere and generous happy hour. Expect classic pub fare, a buzzing patio in the warmer months, and deals on domestic pints and well drinks. It’s a great spot for people-watching and soaking in the downtown vibe.
- The Early Bird: This trendy spot on Dundas Street lives up to its name with excellent early deals. They often feature creative cocktails and small plates that are perfect for sharing. It’s a more modern, chic atmosphere compared to some of the older pubs.
- Crafted Elm: Located in the heart of the downtown core, Crafted Elm offers a sophisticated yet relaxed happy hour. They focus on craft beers and elevated pub food. Their patio is a sought-after spot on sunny afternoons.
2. Evening Delights: Post-Work Perks
As the workday winds down, the happy hour crowds swell. These spots are perfect for meeting friends or colleagues.
- Abruzzi Restaurant: For a more upscale experience, Abruzzi on King Street offers a refined happy hour with exceptional Italian-inspired appetizers and a curated wine list. Their bar area is intimate and perfect for a special occasion or a treat.
- Blackfriars Pub: Nestled in the historic Blackfriars neighbourhood, this pub offers a cozy and traditional happy hour. They are known for their extensive selection of craft beers and hearty pub grub. It’s a local favorite for its authentic feel.
- The York Street Sandwich Co.: While primarily known for their delicious sandwiches, The York Street Sandwich Co. also boasts a surprisingly good happy hour with drink specials and tasty small bites that complement their menu.
Beyond Downtown: Exploring Neighborhood Gems
Don’t limit yourself to just the downtown core! London has fantastic happy hour offerings in various neighborhoods, each with its unique character.
1. Wortley Village: A Charming Local Vibe
Wortley Village is one of London’s oldest and most charming neighborhoods, and it has some wonderful spots for happy hour.
- Villager Pub: This is the quintessential neighborhood pub. The Villager offers a warm and friendly atmosphere with classic pub drinks and food specials that are hard to beat. It’s a place where locals gather and feel right at home.
- The Early Bird (Wortley Location): Yes, they have a second location! The Wortley Village Early Bird offers a similar vibe to its downtown counterpart but with the added charm of the village. Great for a relaxed evening.
2. Masonville Area: Student-Friendly and Lively
The area around Masonville Place, particularly near Western University, caters to a younger crowd but also offers great deals for everyone.
- Puck ‘Em All Sports Bar: A lively sports bar with plenty of screens, Puck ‘Em All offers robust happy hour specials on wings, beer, and other game-day favorites. It’s a fun, casual spot for a group.
- Boston Pizza: While a chain, Boston Pizza in this area has a solid happy hour with good drink and appetizer deals, making it a reliable choice for families or groups looking for familiar options.
3. Old East Village: Hip and Happening
Old East Village (OEV) is rapidly becoming one of London’s most exciting neighborhoods, known for its independent spirit and vibrant arts scene. It’s also home to some fantastic happy hour destinations.
- Dundas and Co.: This stylish spot on Dundas Street offers a curated selection of craft cocktails and local beers, often with competitive happy hour pricing. Their food menu is also excellent, focusing on modern, shareable plates.
- Marrocco’s: A beloved Italian eatery, Marrocco’s has a fantastic happy hour with incredible deals on pizzas, pasta, and drinks. It’s often bustling, so arriving early is recommended. The atmosphere is always energetic and fun.
- Palasad Sociale: This is a unique spot that combines bocce courts with a great bar and food menu. Their happy hour is a fantastic way to enjoy a casual game with friends while sipping on discounted drinks. It’s a truly interactive experience.
Insider Tips for Maximizing Your Happy Hour Experience
As someone who loves exploring London’s social scene, I’ve picked up a few tricks to make the most of happy hour:
- Check Hours and Specials Online: Happy hour times and offerings can change. Always check the venue’s website or social media pages before you go. Many places, like those featured on dropt.beer, list their specials clearly.
- Arrive Early: Popular spots fill up quickly, especially on Fridays. If you have your heart set on a particular place or a coveted patio seat, aim to arrive at the earlier end of the happy hour window.
- Explore Beyond Beer: While beer specials are common, don’t overlook cocktail and wine deals. Many bars in London pride themselves on their creative mixology and extensive wine lists, offering great value during happy hour.
- Look for Food Pairings: Some happy hours are as much about the food as the drinks. Many places offer discounted appetizers that are perfect for sharing and can even serve as a light dinner.
- Consider Group Outings: Happy hour is the perfect excuse for a get-together. Many venues can accommodate small groups, and sharing appetizers makes the experience even more enjoyable and cost-effective.
- Utilize Local Resources: Websites like dropt.beer/insights-news-blog/ are invaluable for discovering new places and checking current deals in London and beyond. You can often find curated lists and reviews that highlight the best happy hour spots.
- Tipping Etiquette: Remember to tip your server and bartender based on the original price of the drinks and food, not the discounted happy hour price.
What to Drink and Eat During Happy Hour
London’s happy hour menus are as diverse as the city itself. You can expect everything from classic pub fare to more gourmet small plates.
Popular Drink Choices:
- Craft Beer: London has a burgeoning craft beer scene. Look for deals on local brews from breweries like Storm Stayed, London Brewing Co., and Railway City (just outside of town but often featured).
- Cocktails: Many bars offer signature cocktails or classic mixed drinks at discounted prices.
- Wine: House red and white wines are frequently part of happy hour specials.
- Domestic Pints: A staple at most pubs.
Must-Try Food Pairings:
- Wings: A perennial favorite, especially at sports bars.
- Appetizers: From loaded nachos and calamari to sliders and spring rolls, there’s always something to nibble on.
- Pizzas: Especially popular at Italian restaurants offering happy hour.
- Small Plates/Tapas: For a more refined experience, look for creative small plates that allow you to sample a variety of flavors.
The Future of Happy Hour in London, ON
The happy hour scene in London, Ontario, is constantly evolving. New restaurants and bars open regularly, and existing establishments often update their offerings to keep up with trends and customer demand. The emphasis on local ingredients, craft beverages, and unique dining experiences continues to grow, making happy hour an even more exciting prospect. With resources like dropt.beer/shop/, you can stay updated on the latest beverage trends and potentially find deals that extend beyond traditional happy hours.
So, whether you’re looking for a casual pint after work, a sophisticated cocktail to start your evening, or a lively spot to gather with friends, London, Ontario, has a happy hour for you. Grab your friends, check out one of these fantastic spots, and cheers to the good times in the Forest City!