A taste of the season: Go wild for whisky in Edmonton
What’s more invigorating on a cold winter’s night than a glass of whisky? From the peat smoke hints in a Laphroaig 10 Year to an Old Fashioned with Bulleit Bourbon, Edmonton's selection will surely slake your thirst.
The Bothy Wine & Whiskey Bar
5482 Calgary Trail NW, Edmonton AB T6H 4J8Whisky connoisseurs rejoice! The Bothy offers more than 175 different kinds, which they claim to be the most in Edmonton. For novices, the staff are knowledgeable and willing to help you choose. Dim lighting and warm browns make for cozy decor. While you imbibe, why not share a cheese or charcuterie plate?
The Cask & Barrel
10041 104 St NW, Edmonton AB T5J 0A4You can lose yourself in the whisky selection at The Cask and Barrel, so be sure to ask if you need help. Grab a wooden stool and nestle up to the bar: They’ve got Scotch, rye, bourbon, blends - everything your heart desires. The food is worth a try, too: Go for the butter chicken or The Rancher, a beef stew with mashed potatoes.
The Common
9910 109 St NW, Edmonton AB T5K 1H5An unassuming red brick facade leads you into the calmly elegant, black and white space of The Common. Take a seat at the bar, or at one of the marble-topped tables in back, and enjoy an old-fashioned with Bulleit Bourbon while Marilyn Monroe and Jimmy Hendrix gaze down at your from the wall. And, there’s truffle popcorn when the munchies hit.
Fairmont Hotel Macdonald
10065 100th Street, EDMONTON AB T5J 0N6Located in the stately Fairmont Hotel Macdonald, the Confederation Lounge is a classic and classy destination for whisky drinking in Edmonton. With its club chairs, palm plants and high ceilings, it has a distinctly Old World vibe. Come for the extensive menu of single malts or blended Scotch. If you’re hungry, the chicken lollipops and garlic goat cheese dip are favourites of mine.
Three Boars Eatery
8424 109 St NW, Edmonton AB T6G 1E2With its space, welcoming vibe, locally-sourced food and extensive whiskey menu, The Three Boars is a surefire bet. On warm days, there’s outdoor seating at which to enjoy your Auchentoshan Three Wood Scotch. Or how about a simple Maker’s Mark? When it’s cold, go inside for the warm wood vibe and turn up the heat with a glass of Connemara and a plate of country-style pork terrine.
The Hat Resto Pub
10251 Jasper Ave NW, Edmonton AB T5J 1X8Though it's unassuming from the outside, once you’re in The Hat you’ll find atmosphere to spare. The lights glow dimly from the pressed tin ceiling and the wooden bar seems to stretch forever. Choose from a considerable menu of Scotch, rye, whisky and bourbon. The Caribou Crossing is a favourite. For days when both thirst and hunger strike, don't miss the Reuben hot dog with sauerkraut and fried onion strings.
O'Byrne's Irish Pub
The green paint job and Public House in Gaelic script over the front door mean O’Byrne’s is hard to mistake for anything but an Irish pub. Inside, the friendly, festive vibe and the great selection of Irish whiskeys confirm its Emerald Isle identity. They’ve got Blackbush and Bushmills to Powers and Paddy. While you’re here, don’t miss the delicious fish ‘n’ chips.
Cavern
2-10169 104 Street NW, Edmonton AB T5J 1A5A small but inviting space in the Warehouse District, The Cavern feels like your own serene, private lair. Bask in the glow of the phenomenal cheese display and enjoy a single-malt Scotch or a bourbon. Grab a glass of Jim Beam or go for the Laphroaig 10 Year, and don’t pass up their signature cheese boards.
