Spend some of your time in this prairie city enjoying a well-crafted drink at one of these Saskatoon bars, including one in The James Hotel and another in the Sheraton Cavalier Saskatoon Hotel
NOVEMBER 5, 2015 – BY DAN CLAPSON
Vista Lounge
Located inside the Sheraton Cavalier Saskatoon Hotel, just a short walk from the riverfront, this hotel bar is a local favourite when it comes to libations. The subdued lighting and plush upholstery throughout the room make this a great place for a date and a classic cocktail.
What to try: The Beetnik—beet infused vodka, apple liqueur, lemon juice, fresh dill.
Owned by Top Chef Canada season one winner Dale MacKay, Ayden offers contemporary cuisine with Asian influences in a slick setting. Ayden’s cocktail program is designed by general manager and mixologist Christopher Cho, who is also responsible for the cocktail creations at Calgary restaurant, Charbar.
What to try: The Fall Semester—dry sherry, dark rum, apricot liqueur, lemon juice, simple syrup and peach and Angostura bitters.
One of the establishments that has helped revitalize the Riversdale neighbourhood of Saskatoon, Goat is all about pairing its cocktails with community by hosting art exhibits, live music and more. This spot is open for lunch throughout the week, but the atmosphere is at its very best when the sun goes down.
What to try: The Black Buffalo—bourbon, Galliano, blackberries, basil, fresh lime juice, simple syrup.
This boutique hotel in the heart of downtown proves that a lobby bar isn’t just for its guests. This popular spot features a well-stocked bar and confident bartenders who can make anything from a classic Old Fashioned to signature hot, boozy drinks like the Chai Ziff, made with local distillery Lucky Bastard’s chai-infused vodka.
What to try: The Apricot Sour—Four Roses Bourbon, apricot brandy, lemon juice, egg white.
With an interior bursting with personality, from its retro decor to the bright orange wall behind the bar, Vista is a lively place to have a drink, even when it’s not packed with people. A house-infused rosemary garlic vodka adds a nice twist on the classic Caesar while the Smokey Robinson packs a big, booze-forward punch and arrives at your table complete with a piece of smoking cinnamon bark.
What to try: The Smokey Robinson—whiskey, Cinzano vermouth, housemade chocolate bitters.