Some might say that the type of cocktail a person orders can tell a lot about their personality. Are you a straightforward apple martini? A risk-taking long island? Or an old-soul gin and tonic?
Whatever you order, we want to make sure its the best you’ve ever had, so we came up with 17 cocktail destinations in South Eastern Ontario to help you wet your whistle!
Kingston
1.Tango Nuevo
Whether your palate enjoys fruity or sweet, Tango Nuevo has such a broad variety of cocktails, including specialities exclusive to Kingston. Inspired by international dishes, Tango fuses delights from around the world that pair perfectly with their tasty drinks.
2.Chez Piggy
Elegance and class are the best words to describe an outing at Chez Piggy. With an incredible, well-hidden courtyard and a vast number of drink options, you can expect a new experience with a selection that includes homemade soda’s, fresh fruits and crisp liquer. Ask a staff member for a pairing suggestion for an especially exquisite taste bud experience.
3.Harpers Burger Bar
Simple yet scrumptious, Harper’s Burger Bar offers more than delicious burgers. With a cute, retro vibe and a creative menu that serves every taste bud from vegans to meat-eaters, you can pair your sandwich with one of their signature cocktails. Try the Grandpa – Crown Royal maple whisky, vanilla ice cream, maple syrup, and candied bacon!
4.Le Chien Noir
If you are looking for a deal then you should join Le Chien Noir for the cocktail hour daily between 3 and 5 PM! Quoted as being “casually elegant”, Le Chien Noir has perfected the balance between fine-dining and affordable eating. With seasonal cocktails, you can expect to try something new every few months. Try out their Sorrento Sparkler, made with limoncello, fresh raspberries, mint and prosecco.
5.AquaTerra
Locally sourced and exquisitely executed, AquaTerra is a fine-dining experience you won’t want to miss. If you are looking for a classy dinner and a unique cocktail, head over to AquaTerra – where even their poutine has class! Join them for happy hour every day from 4PM to 6PM and get some discounts on their delicious food and drinks!
6.Muziikki Cafe
Come for the music, stay for the mouthwatering coffee and cocktails. Fairly priced and always a fun atmosphere, Muziikki Cafe’s hosts a variety of local artists every day of the week. Jazz night on Monday, Open Mic on Tuesday, Folk Night Wednesday, and a variety of artist shows from Thursday to Sunday every week. Grab a Moscow Mule or a Mint Julep and enjoy the sounds Kingston has to offer.
7.Blu Martini
Blu Martini offers an extensive list of creatively concocted cocktails while offering a variety of delicious foods and entertainment every day of the week. We hear that they have the best chicken fingers in town, so bring your kids down to the market square and enjoy a family gathering, or wait until the evening and take a special someone for live (local) music and mouthwatering drinks!
Prince Edward County
8.Drake Devonshire
Sit down and stay a while at this beautiful, chic lakeside boutique hotel in Wellington. If you are looking for a little peace and quiet, you can make your way over to Prince Edward County and have a short stay at the Drake Devonshire, where you can enjoy their practically infinite menu of cocktails that you can’t find anywhere else.
9. Kinsip House of Fine Spirits
Farm-based and homegrown, Kinsip House of Fine Spirits ferments, distils and ages all of their products on site and with love. Take a tour with one of their knowledgeable tasting room staff to learn the rich history behind this farm-based distillery, choose three spirits of your choice for tasting and try their whisky barrel aged maple syrup for a full-fledged Canadian experience.
Bay of Quinte
10.Capers
Perfect for anyone 25+, Capers hosts a ton of music and events for their happy patrons. Customers rave about their cocktail menu, that features some great choices such as their Kiyani&Kai (includes Hypnotiq, Malibu Rum, Blue Curacao and Pineapple juice – yum!) or their Chocolate Fetish (includes Vanilla Vodka, Godiva White Chocolate Cream, Creme De Cacao and Cream – drooling!).
11.The Lark
This new family owned bar has a plethora of drink options that will have you spinning! Try one of their many cocktail options including house cocktails like“Spill the Tea” (made with Bergamote, Gin, Lemon and Aquafaba), a spritz cocktail like the “Pearl Rose” (made with Tanqueray Rangpur, Rose, Cucumber and Bubbly), and/or a barrel-aged cocktail such as “Hanky Panky” (made with Gin, Fernet Branca, Cigar Mist and Vermouth).
12. Bourbon and Bean Handshake Society
Cafe by day and bourbon bar by night, Bourbon and Bean is a must stop when visiting Belleville. Not only are the owners super friendly, but the place has a romantic and quaint feel to it. We hear that the food is pretty incredible too – they serve Montreal style bagels!
Gananoque
13.Riva
If Italian is more aligned with your tastes, you should check out Riva Italian Restaurant in Gananoque. Fresh house made pastas and wood-oven cooked pizzas are scrumptious, and their speciality cocktails will be sure to make you want to return again and again. If you like it light and fruity, try Love Potion #9, if you like a heavier cocktail, try the Dark and Stormy.
Brockville
14.The Barley Mow
Whatever your taste buds are looking for – from fun concoctions such as Ruby the Greyhound (includes Titos Vodka, Elderflower and Ruby Red Grapefruit) and the Razztini (Hpnotiq, Sourpuss and Somersby) or a simple classic like the Classic Caesar or Manhattan – you will find something for you at The Barley Mow. Located right by the 401 and open early, you have no excuse not to stop by for a sip on your next trip through Brockville.
Rideau Heritage Route
15.The Cove Country Inn
The perfect pair for a yummy cocktail is a beautiful view, The Cove Country Inn has both in the bag. With a stunning lake view from their patio, you can throw on a jacket, order your favourite drink and lose yourself in the natural beauty. Truly heaven on earth, you will feel so refreshed after a night at this lovely spot.
Cornwall and SDG Counties
16.The Deke & Squeaks Bar
The Deke & Squeaks Sports Bar and Grill is the main competitor for Winners when it comes to good wings, they also have an awesome staff, fast service and especially cold drinks! With daily specials and crisp cocktails on the menu, you can’t go wrong!
Land O’ Lakes
17.The Waterfront Pub & Terrace – Lennox and Addington
Grab a chair on the riverside patio and order yourself some fish tacos while you enjoy some fresh and fruity cocktails. Plan to stop in on a Saturday if you love live entertainment!
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Discover More Things To Do
Located along the north shore of the St Lawrence River, the South Eastern Ontario region spans from Cornwall and SDG Counties to Ontario’s burgeoning wine and craft beer country known as Prince Edward County and the Bay of Quinte. Along the shores of these waterways, you’ll find fascinating history, quaint villages, inspiring art, live theatre and gastronomic delights. No matter how you choose to experience it, South Eastern Ontario offers some of the best places to visit in Ontario.