Guess who’s hanging with the cool kids now? Calgary just landed three of its top spots on the inaugural 51–100 list of North America’s 50 Best Bars 2025, and we are proudly raising a (locally mixed) glass to celebrate.
This is the first time ever that the awards have expanded beyond their usual top 50 to shine a spotlight on more bars across the continent — and Calgary showed up strong. From modern speakeasies to low-key wine bars and old-school cocktail temples, here’s who made the cut:
No. 52 – Missy’s This That
348a 14 Ave SW
Instagram: @missysthisthat
Described by its own team as a “bar with nice people, good wine, and no frills,” Missy’s is low-key… but legendary. With a killer happy hour ($9.50 martinis? Say less), a wine list that understands the assignment, and cocktails that come with cheeky names like “Orange Yuzu Glad We Used the Fancy Almonds in This??” — this place is where laid-back meets expertly crafted.
The vibe? Effortlessly cool. The kind of place that makes you feel like a regular, even if it’s your first time.
No. 58 – Proof
1302 1 St SW
Instagram: @proofyyc
If you’ve ever sipped something at Proof and thought, “This is what dreams taste like,” you’re not alone. A self-described old-school cocktail bar, Proof is all about creative classics, impeccable service, and the kind of intimate atmosphere that makes a Tuesday night feel like an occasion.
Standouts on the menu include cocoa butter fat-washed gin and mini “small sips” of timeless cocktails — ideal for the indecisive or just curious.
No. 99 – Shelter
1210 1 St SW
Instagram: @shelter.yyc
Dark, moody, and deliciously mysterious, Shelter is your go-to for pre-Prohibition-style cocktails with a twist. The drinks are seasonal, the vibes are immaculate, and yes — there’s bao. (Try the jerk pork or Nashville hot chicken if you’re into flavour bombs.)
More than just a bar, Shelter feels like stepping into a secret — and now, the rest of the continent is in on it.
Want to discover even more local gems?
Check out our roundup of the Best Cocktail Bars in Calgary — from hidden speakeasies to rooftop lounges, we’ve got your next sip covered.
What’s the List?
The North America’s 50 Best Bars is one of the most prestigious rankings in the cocktail world. This year’s 51–100 list was created by a voting panel of 300+ bartenders, writers, and drinks pros across the continent — and they clearly know good drinks when they taste them.
The full Top 50 will be revealed on April 29 in Vancouver. But let’s be real: Calgary’s already winning.
Know a bar that deserves the spotlight next year?
Tag us @calgarylocale and we’ll check them out
More bar guides and drink-friendly patios → See CalgaryLocale.com