Get cozy with warm sips on chilly nights at these top Toronto bars.
There’s something to be said about a warm winter cocktail. From its delicious infusion of spices and winter flavours, that warm feeling you get once you start sipping, all while relaxing in a cozy setting.
Toronto has its fair share of noteworthy bars serving warm cocktails during the winter season. If you don’t see an option on the cocktail menu, just ask and you may be able to warm up with a bespoke creation. (Alcohol-free options are also available.)
Short Turn
Short Turn is a cocktail bar from the owners of the iconic 416 Snack Bar on Queen Street West, and it’s just around the corner from there. They serve some of the dishes we know and love from 416 but with a heavy cocktail focus, so you’re going to find something great at this cozy and intimate cocktail bar.
What to order: They’re serving two special warm drinks—The Hot Pimm’s and Absinthe Hot Chocolate. The Hot Pimm’s is special, having tested half a dozen varieties of apples for this recipe, finding that the Golden Russet brought out so many spices without any additions. While the Absinthe Hot Chocolate uses heavy dark chocolate, oat milk, absinthe, fresh mint and a torched marshmallow garnish.
FAMOUS LAST WORDS
Calling all readers and game night fans. Famous Last Words in The Junction has been a staple in the community, offering a space to enjoy a beverage with a board game or a book by their fireplace. They also offer cocktail classes.
What to order: You will find a special winter menu that offers a warm mulled cider feature that can be built to your preference with any base spirit.
Cocktail Bar
Cocktail Bar on Dundas West is one of the coziest bars you will find in the city. With a fireplace, an intimate setting and an outstanding cocktail program, this visit will not disappoint you. They’re also welcoming to those choosing to drink less, with tasty alcohol-free selections on the menu.
What to order: Cocktail Bar offers their take on the classic Hot Buttered Rum cocktail this winter season.
Writers Room
Tucked away at the Park Hyatt Toronto in Yorkville, you can find the revamped Writers Room, where you will find inspired cocktails by Canadian literary icons. They do the classics very well.
What to order: You can’t go wrong with a Hot Toddy or Irish Coffee. Or ask the bartender to get creative.
Grey Tiger
When it comes to warm cocktails, Grey Tiger is a must-visit. Known for serving the iconic Irish Coffee (psst they even have an Irish Coffee Club Community), you can find fantastic warm and chilled cocktails to enjoy this winter. You can even shop for exclusive bottles and take-home cocktails, and they even offer cocktail classes.
What to order: They’re known for their Irish Coffee, but you will find a ton of specialty warm drinks on their winter menu (even alcohol-free!).
Mother Cocktail Bar
Mother Cocktail Bar on Queen Street West is one of the few Canadian bars listed in North America’s Best Bars Top 50 list. Check out their secret winter menu with inspired cocktails, both hot and cold.
What to order: Everything. You can’t order a single thing wrong here.
Library Bar
It’s hard to top the luxurious comfort of the Library Bar at the Fairmont Royal York. This cozy, literary-inspired bar has been a staple in the city and serves an impressive cocktail menu. I’d trust the team here to serve up only the best when it comes to the classic cocktails.
What to order: They do the classics RIGHT, like a Hot Toddy or delicious Irish Coffee.