The 11 Best Secret Bars in Edmonton You’ll Wish You Discovered Sooner
We weren’t even looking for a bar. We ducked into a random doorway off Jasper Ave to escape the cold and somehow ended up in a dim jazz bar with the best old-fashioned we’d had in months.
That’s when we realized the best nights out aren’t always the ones you plan. They’re the ones you stumble into.
Hidden behind unmarked doors and disguised as something ordinary, these secret bars make you feel like you’ve uncovered a side of Edmonton most people walk right past.
Clementine
– Media from barclementine
Location: 11957 Jasper Ave NW
Contact: +1 780-756-4570
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday: 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Friday & Saturday: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM
Pricing: $$
Bar Clementine is tucked away in Edmonton’s Oliver neighbourhood, a quiet street that doesn’t immediately draw attention. It focuses on craft cocktails done properly.
The menu features spirits such as absinthe and sherry, served with care and without unnecessary show. Wines are chosen from small, family-run vineyards to highlight their natural flavours.
The space complements the drinks. It’s simple and refined, with dark wood and bronze accents that create a calm, polished atmosphere.
Food is limited to snack-style plates like marinated olives and spiced nuts that pair well with drinks. This makes it easy to linger without a full meal.
| Pro tip: If you’re curious, ask the bartender about the lesser-known spirits in their “spirit library” for something different. |
Alchemy Bar
– Media from alchemy.bar
Location: 10344 102 St NW
Contact: (780) 784-8575
Operating hours:
- Wednesday to Thursday: 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Friday to Saturday: 4:00 PM – 1:00 AM
- Sunday: 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Pricing: $$
You’ll find Alchemy Bar hidden on the fifth floor of the JW Marriott in Edmonton’s ICE District.
The bar focuses on handcrafted cocktails with unexpected flavour combinations. We found several drinks that stood out, like mezcal with grilled grapefruit and brown-butter-fat-washed bourbon.
Food is mostly small plates meant to accompany cocktails. The smoked nuts, empanadas, and mac-and-chesse bites all stood out to us.
One thing we really like is the space. It’s modern with leather seating, big windows, and a heated patio that offers a quiet spot to enjoy a drink while looking out over the city.
The venue can also be booked for private events, which makes it a solid choice for small gatherings (our guide to the best event planners can help with planning).
| Pro tip: Make a reservation online. The seating is limited, and walk-ins are few. |
Dolly’s Cocktail Bar
– Media from dollyscocktails
Location: 9902 109 St NW
Contact: (780) 446-9221
Operating hours:
- Wednesday to Thursday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Friday & Saturday: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM
- Sunday: 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Pricing: $$
Dolly’s Cocktail Bar stands out with its pink, retro-inspired interior and a small vintage-style patio. The space is playful but well-organized. We like that it’s easy to see the menu and settle in without feeling crowded.
The cocktail menu is focused and creative. Mezcal, rum, and gin-based drinks are mixed with ingredients like watermelon or other tropical flavours. Some cocktails include a fizzy side for a twist.
The food is small but flavorful: empanadas are crispy with a savoury filling that balances sweeter cocktails, and fried plantains bring a light, caramelized bite that cuts through stronger drinks.
Service is attentive without being pushy. The staff can explain drinks clearly and confidently suggest pairings.
| Pro tip: Try a mocktail. Their non-alcoholic options are thoughtful and flavourful. |
Underground Tap & Grill
– Media from undergroundtapandgrill
Location: 10004 Jasper Ave NW
Contact: (780) 425-1880
Operating hours:
- Monday to Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Wednesday to Thursday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 1:30 AM
- Saturday: 3:00 PM – 1:30 AM
Pricing: $$
Underground Tap & Grill sits in the basement corner of Jasper Avenue and 100 Street downtown. It offers 72 rotating craft beer taps, which means you’ll often find something new or unusual.
The food menu leans toward upscale comfort with a twist: think prime Alberta beef, duck breast, fresh sides and share plates that go beyond the usual pub fare.
The atmosphere is dark wood, rich tones and softer lighting, so it keeps things relaxed yet elevated.
| Pro tip: If you’re into beer flights, let the staff know specific styles you like (hoppy, sour, or dark) since the tap list changes often. |
Red Star Bar
– Media from redstaryeg
Location: 10534 Jasper Avenue NW
Contact: (780) 428-0825
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Wednesday: 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Thursday to Saturday: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM
Pricing: $$
Red Star Bar is on Jasper Avenue, tucked behind a simple exterior that doesn’t call attention to itself.
They focus on well-crafted cocktails. It includes classics and a few twists, a rotating selection of local and international beer, and a small list of wines chosen for their unique flavours.
The interior is straightforward with high tables and booths. The layout makes it easy to settle in, and it’s not crowded.
Their food menu is minimal but intentional. It features items like marinated olives and charcuterie that we recommend pairing with their signature Old Fashioned.
| Pro tip: Try one of their signature cocktails like the Red Star Negroni. It’s well-balanced and not overcomplicated. |
Discreet Lounge & Bar
– Media from discreet_lounge
Location: 11723 Jasper Avenue NW
Contact: (780) 394-8177
Operating hours:
- Thursday, Saturday to Sunday: 10:00 PM – 2:00 AM
- Friday: 8:00 PM – 2:00 AM
Pricing: $
Discreet Lounge & Bar on Jasper Avenue focuses on providing a hidden nightlife spot with a mix of music, drinks, and booth service for groups.
The bar features cocktails, a selection of spirits, and bottle service for those who want a more private experience.
The place accommodates both small groups and larger parties. DJs play a mix of current hits and throwbacks, giving the space an energetic yet balanced vibe.
There isn’t much food selection here, but drinks pair well with light bites if you opt for bottle service. Their cocktails, especially the Discreet Mule or a well-balanced Old Fashioned, are popular picks that make the visit feel worthwhile.
| Pro tip: Reserve a booth if you want to experience the full “discreet” vibe and catch one of their DJ nights for a lively but controlled atmosphere. |
Baijiu
– Media from baijiu_yeg
Location: 10359 104 Street NW
Contact: +1 780-421-7060
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday: 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Friday & Saturday: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM
Pricing: $$
Baijiu sits inside the historic Mercer building in the heart of downtown Edmonton.
The inside is dimly lit and lively, with old-school hip-hop setting the pace and a crowd that seems to know what they’re here for.
Service feels laid back, friendly, and easygoing, so you can really settle in without feeling rushed.
The drinks are a highlight. They offer boozy cocktails that lean on Asian-inspired flavours. Many drinks weave in ingredients like lemongrass, Thai basil, pandan, and taro.
These aren’t just classic drinks with fancy names. They have a distinctive twist that makes the experience feel unique.
| Pro tip: Their teapot or pitcher-style drinks are perfect for groups and are a fun, interactive way to try something different. |
Spilt Zero Proof
– Media from spiltbar
Location: 11909 Jasper Ave NW
Contact: [email protected]
Operating hours:
- Wednesday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Thursday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Friday: 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Saturday: 1:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Pricing: $$
Located in the heart of Wîhkwêntôwin downtown, Split Zero Proof feels both lively and laid-back, with a modern, welcoming interior and friendly crowd.
They specialize in craft alcohol-free cocktails, beers, and spirits, each made thoughtfully to feel just as complex as any cocktail with alcohol. We appreciate that their lasting menus let you sample several flavours before choosing a favourite.
If you’re more outgoing, this is a great spot. The place has a social, inclusive energy, with a focus on the experience and making memories.
| Pro tip: Check out their class schedule if you want a hands-on experience making alcohol-free cocktails. |
The Blackdog Freehouse
– Media from blackdogonwhyte
Location: 10425 82 Ave NW
Contact: +1 780-439-1082
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 2:00 PM – 2:00 AM
Pricing: $
The Blackdog Freehouse has been a staple on Whyte Avenue since 1992, quietly standing out as a place where everyone feels welcome.
The main floor is lively, filled with a mix of regulars and newcomers. Music sets the tone, with DJs spinning on weekends and live acts popping up from time to time.
Drinks here are straightforward and satisfying. You’ll find large 20-ounce pints, well highballs, and classic Caesars, all at reasonable prices.
The space has variety too. The Wooftop Patio offers a second-level garden setting overlooking Whyte Avenue. It’s perfect for sunny afternoons or watching the city buzz. Downstairs, the Underdog is a cozier spot for a more intimate evening.
| Pro tip: Friday and Saturday are lively with DJs and live music, so plan accordingly depending on your mood. |
Honi Honi Tiki Lounge
– Media from honihonitikilounge
Location: 10262 103 St NW
Operating hours: Wednesday to Saturday: 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Pricing: $$
If you wander between the Crash Hotel and Chvrch of John, you’ll find Honi Honi Tiki Lounge, a cozy little spot that feels totally transportive.
It has an intimate, colourful, and playful vibe. The lounge is small with only 40 seats, so it never feels overcrowded.
They specialize in classic and modern tiki cocktails, carefully crafted with tropical flavours and inventive twists. Think passionfruit, orgeat, and lime blended in ways that give each drink its own character.
It’s the kind of place where you can settle in with friends, chat, and watch the bartenders at work (check out our guide to the best LGBTQIA+ bars for more spots like this).
| Pro tip: Share cocktails with friends using their tiki-style vessels for a fun, interactive experience! |
Nowhere Wine Bar
– Media from filipnowak97
Location: 12315 102 Ave NW
Contact: +1 (780) 540-9285
Operating hours: Monday to Saturday: 4:00 PM – Late
Pricing: $$
Nowhere Wine Bar is a quiet hideaway in downtown Edmonton that feels polished without being stuffy.
The interior features modern design and a relaxed vibe. It doesn’t feel intimidating even on a first visit.
Wine is the main attraction here. Their menu features a curated selection of reds, whites, rosés, and sparkling wines from both local and international producers. They also offer cocktails, spirits, and non-alcoholic options.
Small plates like cheeses, cured meats, and tartare are crafted to complement the drinks. They let you explore flavours without overwhelming your palate.
What we especially like here is that conversations flow easily thanks to the calm, intimate setting. At the same time, there’s a lively energy that keeps the space social.
It’s perfect for catching up with friends or enjoying a relaxed date night.
| Pro tip: Keep an eye out for their rotating specials and Champagne Fridays for deals on bubbles. |