Global Major Cities Guide

Establishments offering alcoholic beverages and pub-style food, frequently featuring live music or entertainment.

Sections

Popular Bars and Pubs in Winnipeg

1. The King's Head Pub

Overview: A beloved British-style pub located in Winnipeg's historic Exchange District. Known for its laid-back atmosphere, live music, and extensive beer selection.
Food & Drink: Offers over 30 beers on tap, including local craft brews and international options. The menu features classic pub fare like fish and chips, butter chicken, and burgers.
Price Range: Moderate ($10–$20 for food, $6–$10 for drinks).
Opening Hours: Typically open from 11:00 AM to 2:00 AM daily.
Best For: Casual drinks, live music, and hearty meals.
Tips: Check their schedule for live music or comedy nights. It’s a great spot for mingling with locals.

2. The Common (at The Forks Market)

Overview: A trendy bar located inside The Forks Market, offering a curated selection of craft beers and wines.
Food & Drink: Rotating taps of local and international craft beers, wines by the glass, and food from nearby market vendors (e.g., charcuterie, tacos, and pizza).
Price Range: Moderate ($7–$12 for drinks).
Opening Hours: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM (hours may vary seasonally).
Best For: Casual drinks in a vibrant, communal setting.
Tips: Grab food from one of the market vendors and enjoy it with your drink. The Forks is family-friendly, so it’s a good option for groups with diverse needs.

3. Little Brown Jug Brewing Company

Overview: A local brewery with a minimalist, industrial-style taproom. Known for its flagship beer, the 1919 Belgian Pale Ale.
Food & Drink: Focuses on craft beer brewed on-site. Food options are limited but often include snacks or food truck partnerships.
Price Range: Affordable ($6–$8 per pint).
Opening Hours: 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM (hours may vary).
Best For: Beer enthusiasts and casual hangouts.
Tips: Try a flight to sample multiple beers. The brewery often hosts events like trivia nights or live music.

4. Fionn MacCool's

Overview: A chain Irish pub with a warm, welcoming atmosphere and a mix of traditional and modern pub offerings.
Food & Drink: Irish classics like shepherd’s pie, Guinness stew, and a wide selection of beers, including Guinness on tap.
Price Range: Moderate ($12–$25 for food, $6–$10 for drinks).
Opening Hours: 11:00 AM to midnight or later.
Best For: Casual dining and drinks with friends.
Tips: Great for groups, and they often have sports games on TV.

5. The Toad in the Hole Pub & Eatery

Overview: A cozy, English-style pub located in Osborne Village, a trendy neighborhood in Winnipeg.
Food & Drink: Offers a variety of beers, ciders, and cocktails, along with pub staples like bangers and mash, nachos, and wings.
Price Range: Moderate ($10–$20 for food, $6–$9 for drinks).
Opening Hours: 11:00 AM to 2:00 AM.
Best For: Casual drinks and a lively atmosphere.
Tips: The Toad is a popular spot for locals, so it can get busy on weekends. Arrive early to secure a table.

6. Nonsuch Brewing Co.

Overview: A chic brewery with a focus on Belgian-style beers and a refined, upscale atmosphere.
Food & Drink: High-quality craft beers and a small but carefully curated food menu featuring charcuterie boards and small plates.
Price Range: Moderate to high ($8–$12 per beer, $15–$25 for food).
Opening Hours: 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
Best For: Beer connoisseurs and intimate gatherings.
Tips: Perfect for a quieter, more sophisticated evening.

7. The Good Will Social Club

Overview: A hybrid bar, music venue, and community space that attracts a younger, artsy crowd.
Food & Drink: Affordable drinks, including local beers and cocktails. Food options are limited but often include pop-ups or collaborations with local vendors.
Price Range: Affordable ($5–$8 for drinks).
Opening Hours: 5:00 PM to 2:00 AM.
Best For: Nightlife, live music, and casual drinks.
Tips: Check their event calendar for live performances or DJ nights.

Price Ranges

Affordable: $5–$8 for drinks, $10–$15 for food.
Moderate: $7–$12 for drinks, $15–$25 for food.
High-End: $12+ for drinks, $25+ for food.

Local Etiquette and Regulations

Legal Drinking Age: The legal drinking age in Manitoba is 18 years old. Be prepared to show valid government-issued photo ID (e.g., passport, driver’s license) if asked.
Tipping: Tipping is customary in Canada. A tip of 15–20% of the total bill is standard for good service.
Last Call: Most bars and pubs in Winnipeg have a last call around 1:30 AM, with closing times at 2:00 AM. Some establishments may close earlier on weekdays.
Smoking: Smoking is prohibited inside bars and pubs. Many places have designated outdoor smoking areas.
Dress Code: Most bars and pubs in Winnipeg are casual, but some upscale venues may have a smart-casual dress code. Check ahead if you’re unsure.
Drinking and Driving: Canada has strict laws against drinking and driving. Use a taxi, rideshare service (e.g., Uber), or public transit if you’ve been drinking.
Cultural Norms: Canadians are generally polite and friendly. It’s common to strike up a conversation with strangers at the bar, but always respect personal space and boundaries.

Practical Tips

Accessibility: Many bars and pubs in Winnipeg are wheelchair accessible, but it’s a good idea to call ahead to confirm.
Reservations: While most pubs don’t require reservations, it’s recommended for larger groups or during busy times (e.g., Friday and Saturday evenings).
Happy Hours: Many establishments offer happy hour specials, typically between 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM. This is a great way to enjoy drinks and food at a lower cost.
Seasonal Considerations: Winnipeg winters can be harsh, so plan your outings accordingly. Many bars have cozy interiors perfect for escaping the cold.

Conclusion

Winnipeg’s bar and pub scene offers a mix of traditional and modern experiences, with something for every taste and budget. Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast, a foodie, or someone looking for a lively night out, you’ll find plenty of options to explore. Remember to respect local customs, plan your transportation, and enjoy the warm hospitality that Winnipeg is known for!