Toronto’s Most Intriguing Hotel Bars

For incredible craft cocktails in the Entertainment District

Concealed behind a sumptuous swathe of dark velvet curtains in the sleek lobby of the Entertainment District’s Bisha Hotel, Mister C Bar Room combines classic hospitality with contemporary flare. Designed by Studio Munge, the lounge is inspired by the bold and intricate patterns of an Alexander McQueen dress, bringing the late designer’s avant-garde style to life through snakeskin fabrics, striking slabs of marble and architectural lighting fixtures. 

Must-sips: notable cocktails include the Espresso Martini and the eponymous Monsieur C, an aromatic blend of Hennessy VS, St. Germain, Grand Marnier, lemon and sugar.

For field-to-glass mixology near the Fashion District

Flora Lounge at 1 Hotel is an herbalist’s answer to exquisitely crafted cocktails. Serving up a collection of elixir-driven drinks alongside quintessential favourites and sustainable fare, Flora Lounge is a hotel lobby bar unlike any other. Staying true to the hotel’s green ethos, the lounge is furnished with gorgeous natural motifs and leafy plants. An eye-catching arrangement of local flora frames the back bar, transporting you to the Canadian countryside—even though you’re just steps from trendy King Street West.

Must-sips: local favourites include High Park, Purple Rain and The Rose Vesper, a floral and citrus blend of Dillon's Rose Gin, Northern Keep Vodka, Cocchi Americano Rosa and lemon essence.

For an iconic lobby bar experience in the Financial District

Set inside the Fairmont Royal York, a landmark chateau-style hotel in the heart of the city’s Financial District, Clockwork is an elegant cocktail den that’s as iconic as the hotel’s imposing and historic façade.

Its glamourous design is inspired by 19th- and 20th-century rail travel, the grandeur of Toronto’s revitalized Union Station and the modern aesthetics of the Pullman Car, a luxury railway coach that evokes the mysterious elegance of Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express. Clockwork serves up a satisfying menu of classic and spirit-free cocktails alongside champagne, traditional afternoon tea and sophisticated culinary creations.

Must-sips: the Mexican-inspired Hacienda Calling and Meet Me at the Clock, a refreshing cocktail featuring a mix of Frosé Ice Sphere, lemon, Hendrick’s Gin, Veuve Clicquot Brut Champagne and Absinthe.

For a modern take on cocktails in Parkdale

Located in the new five-story modern wing of Parkdale’s arty Drake Hotel, this intimate lobby bar melds contemporary retro cool with inventive cocktails that exemplify the Drake’s vivacious style through an electrifying palette of international flavours.

Must-sips: the Jet Set Empress cocktail blends the sugary flavours of Luxardo Maraschino and Briottet Violet with bitter lime, while the Solstice Martini zings with bright citrus notes and warming clove. Or try the Whitehorse Buck, an upscale twist on whiskey soda, pairing Pike Creek Double Barreled Canadian Whiskey with pineapple and ginger to create a vibrant mix of comforting flavours.

For a sophisticated lobby lounge in the Financial District

The Lobby Lounge at the Shangri-La Hotel has all the classic features you’d expect from an upscale lobby bar: large-scale paintings, blooming floral arrangements, a marble fireplace and a handcrafted Italian Fazioli piano waiting to be played by skilled fingers. Here you’ll find all the fare of high tea served alongside modern Canadian cuisine and a menu of sophisticated cocktails that reflect The Shangri-La’s supreme elegance.

Must-sips: warm up winter with seasonal cocktails like the Calabaza, a compelling  blend of Los Siete Misterios Mezcal, Drambuie, bitters, squash brine, lemon and egg white.