James MartinLet me share a fun story from one chilly evening in Halifax. I was wandering the streets, driven by curiosity and a craving for something unique and delicious. It all started when I accidentally overheard a lively conversation at a cozy cafe.
Two locals were passionately sharing their secrets about Halifax’s hidden nightlife spots. Intrigued, I quickly jotted down their recommendations on a napkin and made a promise to check them out.
What followed was an unforgettable adventure through Halifax’s cocktail scene. Each bar I visited was a delightful surprise, showing off the creativity and passion of the city’s best mixologists.
Now, I’m excited to share the top cocktail bars in Halifax. These places are full of local charm and unique vibes. Come along with me, and you might discover a new favorite spot just like I did.
Highwayman Restaurant & Bar
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Website: https://www.highwaymanhfx.com/drink-menu
Address: 1673 Barrington St
Contact details: +1 902-407-5260
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 4:00 PM to 12:00 AM
Cost: $$
Must-Order: Tanqueray Sevilla
Highwayman Restaurant & Bar has a vibe that’s both laid-back and full of energy. The moment you step inside, you get this feeling of “Okay, this is where the good stuff is at.”
Their drink menu is amazing. Take their Gin & Tonic, for example. They mix things up with flavors like orange and cinnamon or grapefruit and lime leaf. I had no idea these combos would be so good until I tried them.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you have to try their Harmony in Hues. This drink combines Bosch pear for a sweet, juicy flavor with earthy star anise and a hint of elderflower liqueur that adds a lovely floral note.
It’s one of those drinks that makes you go, “Wow, this is different but delicious.”
| Pro tip: If you can’t decide what drink to try, tell the bartenders what flavors you’re into, and they’ll create something special for you. |
Bar Kismet
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Website: https://barkismet.com/
Address: 2733 Agricola St
Contact details: +1 902-487-4319
Operating hours:
- Monday – Closed
- Tuesday to Sunday – 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Cost: $$
Must-Order: Famiglia Pasqua
Bar Kismet is known for being creative with its cocktails—not your usual stuff at all. Their Needle Nose mixes soy milk punch with tequila, pomelo, toasted hay, and a touch of makrut honey. I know it sounds bizarre, but it was surprisingly balanced and tasty.
If you’re into mezcal, the Incognito Alligator is a must-try. It combines smoky mezcal with notes of chocolate malt. It’s kind of like having a little bit of smokiness and a hint of chocolate all in one sip.
And if you’re not drinking alcohol, you should go for the Stiff Competition. It’s got pineapple for that fresh tropical vibe and sesame oil that adds a nutty flavor. It’s super refreshing and definitely not boring.
| Pro tip: Snag a seat at the bar and watch the bartenders do their mixology magic. They’re super approachable, making your visit more engaging and fun. |
Peacock Wine Bar
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Website: https://www.peacockwinebar.ca/menu/
Address: 1715 Lower Water St #134
Contact details: +1 902-334-4869
Operating hours:
- Monday to Tuesday – Closed
- Wednesday to Thursday – 4:00 PM to 12:00 AM
- Friday to Saturday – 4:00 PM to 1:00 AM
- Sunday – 4:00 PM to 12:00 AM
Cost: $$
Must-Order: White & Rose
I’ve visited Peacock Wine Bar a couple of times, and let me say, their drinks menu never fails to impress.
The last time I was there, I had this drink called Strawberry Skies Forever. It’s a super refreshing mix of local white rum, strawberries, and a zing of ginger. It really hit the spot.
If you’re into wine, they’ve got a great deal of selection, too. One wine that stood out for me was the ‘23 Lightfoot & Wolfville Tidal Bay.
Each sip reveals layers of complexity, showcasing vibrant acidity balanced with a touch of sweetness, along with delightful hints of apple and floral notes.
The atmosphere is just as sweet. The staff is friendly, the music’s perfect, and you can easily lose track of time here.
| Pro tip: Keep an eye out for their tasting events. Peacock Wine Bar occasionally hosts evenings where you can sample a flight of wines or a selection of craft cocktails accompanied by expert explanations and pairing suggestions. |
Walter’s Snack Bar
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Website: https://www.waltersbar.ca/
Address: 1533 Barrington St
Contact details: No Phone Number
Operating hours:
- Sunday and Monday – Closed
- Tuesday to Thursday – 4:30 PM to 11:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday – 4:00 PM to 12:00 AM
Cost: $$
Must-Order: Mustang & Sally
Walter’s Snack Bar is a spot with laid-back, industrial-chic vibes that’s effortlessly cool. The real highlight, though, is their amazing selection of drinks.
The Old Fashion here is fantastic. They nail the balance between bitters and sweetness with their special homemade syrup. It’s the kind of drink that just hits the spot every time.
Then there’s the Paper Plane. This drink mixes Aperol, bourbon, Amaro Nonino, and lemon juice. It’s tangy, sweet, and has an herbal twist—all the good stuff in one glass.
If you feel like going off-menu, the Wild Card option always brings surprises. I once got a drink called Smoky Harbor. It was a wonderful mix of smoky mezcal, fresh lime, and a bit of agave syrup for sweetness.
| Pro tip: Bring along a group of friends and ask the bartenders to surprise you with a cocktail flight. They’ve got this knack for creating a series of drinks tailored to the vibe of your group. |
The Middle Spoon Desserterie & Bar
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Website: https://www.themiddlespoon.com/
Address: 1563 Barrington St
Contact details: +1 902-407-4002
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Thursday – 4:00 PM to 12:00 AM
- Friday to Saturday 4:00 PM to 1:00 AM
Cost: $$
Must-Order: Two Mexicans Walk into a Bar
When you settle at The Middle Spoon, you’re set for a fun drink adventure. The bartenders here really know their stuff and mix up some amazing drinks like the Noble Savage.
This one’s a cool mix of bourbon with a vanilla twist, fresh apple, and a dash of bitters. It feels like a cozy hug for your taste buds, with the vanilla and apple flavors blending just right.
If you like something a bit different, you’ll love the Honey Badger cocktail. It’s a refreshing mix of gin, honey, and ginger, all topped off with soda water. This drink has a great balance of sweet and spicy that keeps you coming back for more.
And if you have a sweet tooth, you’re in luck. The desserts here are perfect partners for the cocktails, making every sip and bite even better.
| Pro tip: Dive into their secret menu. While their standard menu is nothing short of spectacular, asking for the secret menu takes your visit from great to unforgettable. |
Obladee Wine Bar
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Website: https://static1.squarespace.com/
Address: 1600 Barrington St
Contact details: +1 902-405-4505
Operating hours:
- Sunday and Monday – Closed
- Tuesday to Thursday 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday – 4:00 pm to 12:00 AM
Cost: $$
Must-Order: Pinot Grigio
Obladee Wine Bar is a charming spot that offers an impressive selection of beverages that cater to everyone, whether you’re gluten-free or dairy-free.
Let’s kick off with the L’Acadie Vineyards Prestige Brut. This sparkling wine is far from ordinary. It’s crisp and refreshing, with a delightful, juicy apple flavor. Plus, there’s a subtle almond hint paired with a touch of citrus zest, making it a fascinating drink.
Next up is the Lambrusco. If you think you know Lambrusco, Obladee’s version might surprise you. It’s a rich, dark wine with a playful fizz. The flavors are a beautiful blend of ripe, dark berries, a hint of earthiness, and just a touch of sweetness.
| Pro tip: Grab a spot at one of their themed wine-tasting events. These get-togethers are all about diving into different wine regions, grape varieties, or styles. |
Bar Sofia
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Website: https://www.barsofia.ca/menus/
Address: 1709 Lower Water St #104
Contact details: +1 902-334-1010
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Wednesday – 11:30 AM to 10:00 PM
- Thursday 11:30 AM to 11:00 PM
- Friday to Sunday 11:30 AM to 2:00 AM
Cost: $$
Must-Order: El Gaucho Verde
If you’re after a spot that’s both lively and laid-back, Bar Sofia is the best place to be. It’s got this cool Latin American vibe that makes for a perfect, relaxed night out.
One cocktail worth trying is El Gaucho Verde. Made with Blye Lobster Vodka, Dolin Dry Vermouth, and a bright green herbal syrup, it’s finished off with a lime twist. It’s a fresh and tangy delight that breaks away from the usual.
If you’re into a sweeter drink with a bit of character, definitely give El Cubano a go. It mixes Havana Club 3 yr and Fisherman’s Rum with tepache, hitting that sweet and tangy spot, with just a hint of pineapple.
| Pro tip: Go for the tapas-style dishes. The place isn’t just about great drinks; their food menu is crafted to complement the cocktails perfectly. |
Magnolia
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Website: https://static1.squarespace.com/
Address: 5189 Prince St
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Monday – Closed
- Tuesday to Saturday – 5:00 PM to 1:00 AM
Cost: $$
Must-Order: House Milk Punch
If you’re looking for a cozy spot to unwind, Magnolia is a gem you shouldn’t miss. This place has a unique drinks menu with something for everyone.
For those who like non-alcoholic drinks, the Aperitivo Spritz is a great pick. It’s a refreshing, citrusy mocktail with a hint of herbs. It goes perfectly with their Marinated Olives & Spiced Nuts, which add a nice spicy kick.
If you enjoy cocktails, there’s a drink that caught my eye for its uniqueness—Harbor Sunset. It features a mix of local gin, infused with a hint of lavender and a dash of house-made syrup, which gives it a smooth, subtle sweetness.
The addition of freshly squeezed lemon juice cuts through the sweetness, adding a layer of refreshing tartness. To top it off, a splash of soda water is added for a fizzy finish. Plus, they top it with an edible flower, making it both tasty and Instagrammable.
| Pro tip: Learn about your drink. If you’re curious about the art of mixology, ask about the inspiration behind your chosen cocktail or the story of the ingredients. You’ll get a quick “behind-the-scenes” look at how they craft their drinks. |
The Ostrich Club
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Website: https://theostrichclub.ca/wp-content/
Address: 5529 Young St
Contact details: +1 902-454-0069
Operating hours:
- Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday – 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Tuesday – Closed
- Friday to Saturday – 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Sunday – 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Cost: $$
Must-Order: Rose Apothecary
The Ostrich Club is where you go for drinks that really stand out. It’s more than just a place to hang out; they know how to make some seriously good cocktails.
First up, try their Tree of Knowledge. It’s got Calvados and spruce tip syrup. The apple brandy part is warm and cozy, and the spruce tip syrup gives it a fresh twist. It’s a great combo.
Then there’s the Oaxacan Old Fashioned. They swap the usual whiskey for mezcal, which adds a cool, smoky flavor. They mix in some sweet agave and orange bitters. This one’s a drink you want to take your time with.
If you’re staying away from alcohol, the Vir-GIN Mojito is a great choice. It’s minty, super refreshing, and just right if you want something fun without the buzz.
| Pro tip: Take a peek at their wine list. It’s curated with some interesting local and international bottles that you might not find elsewhere. |
