Looking for the best cocktail bars in Calgary? Whether you’re a martini connoisseur, a tiki drink enthusiast, or just want something expertly shaken and not too sweet, Calgary’s bar scene delivers big time. From hidden speakeasies to upscale lounges, this city is packed with seriously good spots to sip, swirl, and savor.
Here’s your go-to guide to the best cocktail bars in Calgary, featuring every must-visit spot for unforgettable drinks and good vibes.
The Best Cocktail Bars in Calgary You Need To Visit
1. Proof
1302 1 St SW, Calgary
proofyyc.com
If you take your cocktails seriously, Proof is the place to be. The menu is always evolving, the bartenders are mixology wizards, and every drink is crafted with precision and flair.
2. Betty Lou’s Library
908 17 Ave SW, Calgary
bettylouslibrary.com
If you love a hidden speakeasy vibe, this place is a whole mood. You’ll need a password to get in (check their socials), but once inside, it’s all dim lighting, live jazz, and cocktails so good they make you feel like a 1920s socialite.
3. Prohibition Bar & Lounge
720 17 Ave SW #30, Calgary
prohibitionloungeyyc.com
Another speakeasy-inspired gem, Prohibition Bar & Lounge leans into bold flavors and dramatic presentations. If you love old-school elegance but also enjoy a bit of flair with your drink, this is your spot.
4. Bar Chouette
227 11 Ave SW #130, Calgary
barchouette.ca
A French-inspired cocktail bar where every drink feels sophisticated but not stuffy. They do classic cocktails incredibly well, and the food is just as impressive. It’s casual-chic perfection.
5. The Attic Bar & Stage
1413 9 Ave SE, Calgary
theatticyyc.ca
Cocktails AND live music/comedy? Yes, please. The Attic is one of the most fun bars in the city, with a great cocktail menu and a buzzing atmosphere.
6. Two Rivers Distillery
453 42 Ave SE, Calgary
tworiversdistillery.com
This is a distillery-first bar, meaning everything is locally made, small batch, and smooth as hell. Their house-distilled gin and vodka are next-level.
7. Major Tom Bar
700 2 St SW #4000, Calgary
majortombar.ca
Want a drink with a skyline view? This rooftop bar makes killer martinis and has a vibe that’s modern, elegant, and effortlessly cool.
8. Missy’s This That
348A 14 Ave SW, Calgary
missysthisthat.com
A quirky, fun, and effortlessly cool spot that feels like a friend’s trendy loft bar. Expect creative cocktails and a chill, unpretentious atmosphere.
9. The Artist Lounge
1840 20 Ave NW, Calgary
theartistlounge.ca
A cocktail bar INSIDE an art gallery? Sign me up. Drinks here are crafted as beautifully as the art on the walls.
10. Bridgette Bar
739 10 Ave SW, Calgary
bridgettebar.com
Upscale but not pretentious, Bridgette Bar has amazing cocktails and top-tier food. Perfect for a classy night out.
11. UNTITLED Champagne Lounge
620 8 Ave SW #104, Calgary
untitledyyc.com
If you love Champagne-based cocktails and a bit of glam, this is your dream bar.
12. Lulu Bar
510 17 Ave SW, Calgary
lulubar.ca
Tropical, fun, and vibrant, this is where you go for tiki drinks and summer vibes all year round.
13. Fleetwood Lounge
524 10 Ave SW, Calgary
fleetwoodlounge.com
Stylish, moody, and refined, Fleetwood Lounge is an intimate space with a focus on high-quality cocktails.
14. Magpie
535 8 Ave SE #107, Calgary
magpieyyc.com
One of Calgary’s hidden gems, this bar has exceptionally crafted cocktails and a cozy, inviting space.
15. Prosperity Bar
107 2 Ave SE, Calgary
prosperitybar.ca
If good vibes, great drinks, and amazing service are your thing, Prosperity Bar is a must-visit.
16. Business & Pleasure
1327a 9 Ave SE, Calgary
itsbusinessandpleasure.com
The name says it all—great drinks, cool vibes, and a perfect balance of classy and fun.
17. Side Hustle
2252 33 Ave SW Unit 101, Calgary
sidehustleyyc.com
A hidden gem with a warm, inviting atmosphere and seriously good drinks.
18. Skunkworks Distillery
4009 4 St SE, Calgary
skunkworksdistillery.com
A distillery and cocktail room serving small-batch moonshine and handcrafted cocktails.
19. Prickett Richard
638 17 Ave SW #1, Calgary
prickettrichard.com
Cocktails here are not just drinks, they’re experiences. Each one is crafted with incredible attention to detail, making Prickett Richard one of Calgary’s top-tier cocktail destinations.
20. Blue Rock Swim Club
Calgary, AB
bluerockswimclub.com
Tucked beneath South Block Barbecue & Brewing in Mission, Blue Rock Swim Club offers a cozy, intimate atmosphere with vacation vibes year-round. The bar serves creative cocktails like Mulholland Drive and Scared To Kick Reality, paired with elevated snacks and larger plates, making it a perfect spot for a laid-back yet delicious night out.
21. Klein / Harris
110 8 Ave SW, Calgary
kleinharris.com
Well known for its delicious food, the cocktails at Klein / Harris are also a standout. Enjoy their Happiest Hour Tuesday to Saturday, from 3pm–6pm and 9pm–close, with $6 cocktails and $10 small plates.
22. Shelter
1210 1 St SW, Calgary
shelteryyc.com
This industrial-chic cocktail den is like if James Bond had a secret bunker bar. Dim lighting, smooth beats, and smoky, bold cocktails make it a must-visit.
23. Paper Lantern
115 2 Ave SE, Calgary
paperlantern.ca
A Vietnamese-inspired tropical escape, Paper Lantern is the kind of place that instantly transports you somewhere warm. The cocktails are bright, flavorful, and fresh.
24. Ricardo’s Hideaway
1530 5 St SW, Calgary
ricardoshideaway.ca
If you want rum, tiki drinks, and tropical vibes, Ricardo’s is where it’s at. Their patio is one of the best in the city, and the drinks? Absolute fire.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What makes the best cocktail bars in Calgary stand out?
When it comes to the best cocktail bar in Calgary it should be noted that it should be creative, should have quality and should have novelty in its cocktails, and friendly. Most of these bars specialize in contemporary cocktail preparations alongside traditional concoctions presented in today’s style.
- Are the cocktails in Calgary’s bars expensive?
While the prices of cocktails differ, the best cocktail bars in Calgary have a good number of options to cater for the pocket of anyone willing to part with their cash. The clientele quality in some of the organizations’ premium outlets could be very high while the quality of drinks is equally good but cheaper.
- Do I need a reservation at the best cocktail bars in Calgary?
It is advisable to book for a table, especially at the weekend or at any other festive season. More of the best cocktail bars in Calgary do have a tendency to get crowded so getting a table booked in advance can be useful.
- Are there cocktail bars in Calgary with a special atmosphere?
Yes! Some of the best cocktail bars in Calgary have unique and cozy atmospheres, ranging from intimate speakeasies to modern, sleek lounges. Whether you’re looking for a romantic setting or a lively bar, Calgary offers a wide range of options.
Final Cheers: Where Are You Headed To Tonight?
Calgary is stacked with incredible cocktail bars, so whether you want a laid-back neighborhood spot, a dramatic speakeasy, or a rooftop martini with a view, you’ve got plenty of options.
Want to see which local bars are making waves internationally?
Three Calgary bars just landed on the Top 100 list of North America’s Best Bars. Find out who made it — and why they deserve the spotlight.
Cocktails Not Your Style?
If you’re more into the excitement of sports and great pub food, check out our list of the best sports bars in Calgary for a lively, fun-filled atmosphere. Whether you’re cheering for your favorite team or enjoying a casual night out, Calgary has plenty of spots to catch the game and enjoy some cold drinks with friends.