Alright, Let’s Cut the Fluff
You’re here because you want to know where the best bars in North America are. And no, we’re not talking about that dive bar where your cousin works. We’re talking about places where the bartenders know your name and the drinks are so good they’ll make you forget your ex’s name. This guide is your golden ticket to bars that mix professionalism with a side of fun—because your martini should be shaken, not your therapist’s hand.
If you’re into making your own brews, check out our guide on Make Your Own Beer. Not sure where to start? Home has all the info you need.
The 10 Bars You’ll Regret Missing
1. The Dead Rabbit (New York City, USA)
This bar won “World’s Best Bar” in 2017, which is basically the Oscars of bartending but with less glitter. It’s got 120 Irish whiskeys and a menu written in Gaelic—because if Shakespeare can’t read it, it’s probably fancy enough. Address: 32 Barrow St, New York, NY 10003
2. The Aviary (Chicago, USA)
Imagine a lab where scientists turn liquid nitrogen into cocktails. That’s The Aviary—science meets sipping. Their “Molecular Margarita” will make you question if you’ve accidentally time-traveled to a chemistry convention. Address: 190 N Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60601
3. The Horseshoe (Vancouver, Canada)
This bar is older than most of your Instagram followers. It’s got a vibe that screams, “We’ve seen your great-grandparents’ mistakes.” Plus, the poutine is a side dish that’ll ruin you for all other fries. Address: 1122 Robson St, Vancouver, BC V6E 3L1
4. Bar Liberty (Mexico City, Mexico)
If James Bond had a cocktail party, this would be the venue. Every drink is a masterpiece—think tequila flights that’ll make your ex call you and apologize. Address: Calle 16 de Septiembre 87, Centro Histórico, Mexico City
5. The Churchill Room (Toronto, Canada)
Pro tip: Don’t order the “Churchill Martini” unless you’re ready to explain what a Churchill was to your bartender. The room itself is a relic of the 1940s, complete with velvet booths and a vibe that says, “We’re not here to make friends, just drinks.” Address: 750 King St W, Toronto, ON M5V 1C1
6. The Edison (Los Angeles, USA)
This place is like a steampunk nightmare for your taste buds. Edison bulbs, gears, and a menu that includes “smoked oysters with a side of existential dread.” Address: 124 N Los Feliz Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90038
7. Bar Boulud (Montreal, Canada)
Michel Roux Jr. would probably cry if he walked in here. The French-Canadian fusion is so smooth, it’s like your Pomeranian and your neighbor’s Chihuahua had a baby. Address: 1845 McGill College Ave, Montreal, QC H3H 1S4
8. The Broken Shaker (Austin, USA)
If you’re a fan of “indie-cool” bars with plants that judge your life choices, this is your spot. The “Bullshot” will make you wonder why you ever settled for store-bought vodka. Address: 115 W 2nd St, Austin, TX 78701
9. La Clandestina (Mexico City, Mexico)
Think of this as the James Bond villain lair of bars. Passwords, hidden entrances, and a mezcal menu that’ll make you question your life choices. Address: Calle Otilio Montaño 28, Condesa, Mexico City
10. The Cooper’s Club (Seattle, USA)
This bar is so cozy, it’s like your grandfather’s basement but with better lighting. The “Cooper’s Club Old Fashioned” is a masterclass in simplicity—and also in making you forget your own name. Address: 1117 8th Ave, Seattle, WA 98101
How to Find Bars That Actually Care
- Do your research: Yelp reviews are a goldmine, but skip the one-star reviews written by people who “just don’t like whiskey.”
- Ask locals: Bartenders know the good stuff. If they’re too busy rolling their eyes, walk out and find a better bar.
- Check the menu: If a bar lists “signature drinks” but can’t spell “sour apple,” run.
FAQs for Bar Newbies (and Old Timers Too)
Q: What’s the best time to visit a bar?
A: When the bartender has a lanyard and looks like they could use a drink themselves. But seriously, weekdays are less crowded, unless you’re in Vegas, in which case, good luck with that.
Q: How do I know if a bar is worth the wait?
A: If the line is longer than a Netflix queue on a Friday night, it’s probably worth it. But if someone behind you is already snoring, maybe bring a blanket.
Q: Can I take my dog?
A: Only if your dog is a trained sommelier. Otherwise, no. Unless you’re at The Churchill Room—poodles are welcome, but only if they know how to mix a dry martini.
Need a Drink That’s Custom-Made for You?
If you’re a bar owner or just want to impress your friends with a drink named after you, check out our Custom Beer guide. And if you’re looking to sell your beer online, Dropt.beer is your one-stop shop for beer distribution. No need to cry in a whiskey barrel anymore.
Final Call to Action (aka Don’t Skip This)
If you’re inspired to open your own bar or just want to know where to find the best brews, Contact us. And if you’re a business looking to grow, Grow Your Business With Strategies Beer has all the tips you need. Cheers to fewer bad dates and more good drinks!
