Melanie MoralesWho wants to spend their hard-earned cash on overpriced drinks? Certainly not you, my friend, and definitely not me!
That’s why every Friday for the past 3 months, I’ve been trying every possible happy hour spot in Edmonton. We’re talking killer deals, amazing eats, and a guaranteed good time – all without breaking the bank (or your liver, if you’re feeling virtuous).
The result? I found the best of them all. I was also pretty often hammered, but at least not broke!
| How much does happy hour cost in Edmonton? Happy hour in Edmonton usually means drinks will go down to as low as $5 for a draught. Many places will even drop their prices to 40% or 50% of the usual. For more estimates, jump to our FAQs at the end of the article! |
The Best Happy Hour Spots in Edmonton
Even though most people may not pay attention to happy hour promotions, with deals like these, it’s hard not to go pay these bars a visit. If you’re ready, let’s now take a look at our picks for the best happy hour spots in Edmonton.
1. The Common
| HAPPY HOUR | Tuesday to Friday: 3:00pm – 6:00pm |
| MENU | Appetizers and Drinks |
| WEBSITE | https://www.thecommon.ca/ |
| ADDRESS | 9910 109 St NW, Edmonton, AB, T5K 1H5 |
| CONTACT DETAILS | Phone: (780) 452-7333 Email: [email protected] |
| OPERATING HOURS | Monday: Closed Tuesday to Wednesday: 3:00pm – 10:00pm Thursday: 3:00pm – 11:00pm Friday to Saturday: 3:00pm – 1:00am Sunday: Closed |
Millennials will love the interior styling of the Common, a laid-back lounge with a mix of decor that celebrates vintage and modern culture. Whether it’s the black and white photographs of musicians on the wall or the turntable setup in the corner for DJ nights, this is a haven for artists who want to hang loose.
Happy hour runs every Tuesday to Friday here from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm, with a special appetizer menu that includes their iconic gluten-friendly Poutine, Mac and Cheese, and Truffle Popcorn.
They do have special daily deals as well, so we highly recommend just heading over to the Common to find out the special of the day.
As for the draughts, you won’t know which one is the featured draft of the day until you get there. However, you can ideally save around $3 per serving unless the tap is filled with the Common Patio Lager, Four Winds Pale Ale, or the AlleyKat Main Squeeze.
What makes the Common a great place to visit is their new collaboration with Executive Chef Lindsay Porter who has brought a new creatively seasonal menu to the table with gluten-free options and dishes suitable for vegans.
So whether you’re looking for a soothing and flavorful local craft beer or a unique concoction of vintage and modern cocktails, the Common offers one of the best happy hours in Edmonton. Add to that a wonderful patio for open-air dining or drinks, and this spot earns a place on our list.
Pros
- Hangout for artists and musicians
- One of the best food menus offered
- Patio extension for open-air fun
Cons
- Happy hour drinks aren’t discounted much
- Opens late compared to other bars
Customer Reviews
People who live in downtown Edmonton are known to frequent the Common for its vibe and beer selections. Leslie Tannahill, a regular customer, shares her thoughts:
“Fabulous atmosphere. The most friendly servers ever, and the food is incredible. The patio extention couldn’t have come at a better time! I absolutely love this place.”
Brendan Boucher, another customer, comes for the happy hour, as he writes:
“Very, very impressed with the happy hour specials. Three drinks and three appetizers for $55 with a tip. Highly recommended”
2. Cask & Barrel
| HAPPY HOUR | Tuesday to Saturday: 3:00pm – 7:00pm |
| MENU | Wine, Beer, Whisky, Cocktails, Alcohol Free Drinks, |
| WEBSITE | http://www.thecaskandbarrel.ca/ |
| ADDRESS | 10041 104 St NW, Edmonton, AB T5J 1Y7 |
| CONTACT DETAILS | Phone: (780) 498-1224 |
| OPERATING HOURS | Tuesday to Saturday: 2:00pm – 12:00mn |
The Cask & Barrel has been around since 2012, quickly becoming a favorite in the city for its homey vibe. With an extensive drinks menu and heartwarming food, this locally owned bar and eatery aims to provide a cozy intimate space for the “ultimate comfort” with friends while listening to live music.
They specialize in wine, beer, and whisky because all these drinks are stored in…yes you guessed it: a cask and barrel. With over 40 types of whiskey variations available, the staff is more than happy to introduce you to the different flavors they have on offer.
Happy Hour here runs from 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm daily with 2 bucks off the Grizzly Paw. The exception is Sunday, on which they’re closed.
Before you get discouraged by the slim offering, they do have daily themed deals from 7:00 pm until closing, such as Scotch Tuesdays or Screw It! It’s Wine Wednesday where you can get up to half-off on the featured beverages.
However, out of all the daily deals, we think Saturday might be the best day to go with happy hour starting an hour earlier. You can grab 2oz Retro Cocktails at half-off and $5 China Whites and Porn Stars until closing.
If that’s still not enough, you can order from the special “Nooner” menu from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm. You’ll have a choice from non-alcoholic Grizzly Paws at a 50% discount, $5 margaritas, and a slimmed 4oz glass of house wine for only $3.
Unfortunately, the food at the Cask & Barrel is nothing to get too excited about. Still, they do have hummus, various dips, and pains, which are enough to tide you over for a night of drinking.
They also have sharing plates such as Chardichoke Dip and Duck Sliders, or plated single dishes like a French Style Sirloin or Lamb Ragout. However, despite the lackluster menu, each item conveniently lists which whisky, beer, or scotch will pair best with it – and that helps make up for the sparse menu.
Pros
- Wide selection of whisky and beers
- Numerous daily deals and offers
Cons
- Only opens on Sunday during long weekends
- Mediocre food menu
Customer Reviews
Guests at the Cask & Barrel generally come by after work to enjoy a few drinks during happy hour. Diego Luces, one of their regulars, shares:
“Nice place to grab a beer after work, during happy hour. Staff are friendly and it has a small but nice patio.”
Chris Buyze, another regular patron, says:
“Love this small bar in Downtown Edmonton. A great little community hub, grab a beer or scotch with a friend. Nice patio in the summer, a great after work place to hang out and enjoy the weather…and people watch!”
3. Beer Revolution
| HAPPY HOUR | Monday to Sunday: 3:00pm – 6:00pm |
| MENU | Beer, Pizza, Snacks, Salads, Burgers, Sandwiches, House LInks, Wine |
| WEBSITE | https://beerrevolution.com/edmonton/ |
| ADDRESS | 11736 104 Avenue, Edmonton, AB T5K 2P3 |
| CONTACT DETAILS | Phone: (780) 430-4677 Fax: (780) 482-1942 |
| OPERATING HOURS | Monday: 11:30am – 11:00pm Tuesday to Thursday: 11:30am – 12:00mn Friday: 11:30am – 1:00am Saturday: 11:00am – 1:00am Sunday: 11:00am – 11:00pm |
Beer Revolution has two dozen taps that are constantly rotating, which means that each time you visit, there’ll be a different selection on their digital beer board. What’s great is that they have detailed descriptions of each craft draft – all of which are handpicked to offer you brews that aren’t typically sold in other establishments.
Some of the details they’ll include are the brewery it came from, alcohol content, the date it was poured into the tap, and even the estimated date that it will be replaced! This makes it convenient for you to decide when you want to visit – whether it’s to catch the last few mugs of your favorite tap or to check out what’s freshly poured.
Aside from the eclectic selection of brewskies, Beer Revolution is known for its pizzas. Their thin hand-rolled crusts are made with authentic Italian flour and San Marzano tomatoes, topped with a premium selection of meats and cheeses before they’re brick-baked.
Now, one thing about Beer Revolution that may turn off some people is that they only play Rock and Roll. But if you’re open to listening to this genre of music with a selection that spans generations, they’ll even insert your requests into their daily playlists.
Happy hour runs from Monday to Friday from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm, which is a little shorter than most bars. During these three hours, selected brews are only $6 along with house red or white wine, and special deals on pizzas.
With an eclectic mix of daily deals such as Alberta Beer Monday and IPA All-Day Thursday, you’re bound to find something to like here at Beer Revolution.
Pros
- Great selection of pizzas and appetizers
- Constantly rotating taps
Cons
- Inconsistent operating hours
- Short happy hour
Customer Reviews
The delicious appetizers and selection of beers keep customers coming back for more at the Beer REvolution. Curtis Wakefield, likes to come during happy hour as he says:
“Beer Rev is always a good decision. Solid happy hour, great drink selection and fantastic pizza. Personally I also love the pretzels. Small but perfect as an app or if you just want a snack while having a few beers.”
Lori South, a long time Edmontonian, enjoys the selection of drinks and the daily happy hour as she writes:
“Great place to enjoy beer…with such an amazing selection! And, it’s not just about the beer.. great wine, cocktails, food. Best was our waiter/bartender w excellent customer service. Happy Hour starts at 3:00 p.m. every day! I’ll definitely be returning.”
4. The Black Dog Freehouse
| HAPPY HOUR | Monday to Saturday: 2:00pm – 7:00pm |
| MENU | Beer on Tap, Domestic Beers, Premium Bottles, Import Bottles, Ciders & Coolers, Liquors, Merchandise, |
| WEBSITE | https://www.blackdog.ca/ |
| ADDRESS | 10425 82 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 2A1 |
| CONTACT DETAILS | Phone: (780) 439-1082 Email: [email protected] |
| OPERATING HOURS | Monday to Tuesday: 2:00pm – 2:00am Wednesday: 2:00pm – 10:00pm Thursday to Sunday: 2:00pm – 2:00am |
The Black Dog Freehouse has gained something of a cult following around Edmonton since opening its doors in 1992. Known for its aptly named Wooftop Patio, it’s the only roof deck garden space overlooking Whyte Avenue.
Since it also has an enclosed area, this crossbreed between a traditional pub and a modern brewery can house its guests whether it’s sunny or snowing.
For those that want a more personal atmosphere, they can head on over to The Underdog, which is the lower-level room, that boasts a casual ambiance ideal for a private party or a special occasion.
With a five-hour-long happy hour running from 2:00 pm to 7:00 pm, you can have your fill of shots of Jack Daniels, Jagermeister, or Olmeca Gold Tequila at only $4 each. This special daily deal applies to all local bottles of beer as well!
Unfortunately, the biggest drawback to The Black Dog Freehouse is that they don’t serve food, so you may want to grub up somewhere else before or after you get your drink on. It shouldn’t be a problem though since there are plenty of places to eat on Whyte Avenue.
With daily-themed discounts on pints and highballs each day of the week, The Black Dog Freehouse even has its own group of in-house DJs and a weekly Comedy Show in the Underdog. For a place that doesn’t serve food, they’ve certainly created a solid reputation for themselves as a favorite spot of Edmontonians.
Pros
- Has garden roof deck and private function room
- Hosts weekly comedy shows
- Long happy hour
Cons
- Doesn’t serve any food
- Regulars may not be welcoming to newcomers
Customer Reviews
The Black Dog Freehouse is an iconic gem on Whyte Avenue mostly because of its rooftop patio. Sarah Supernault, a regular, shares her thoughts:
“Such a classic. Best and cheapest place to get beers on whyte. Their rooftop patio is amazing and they have opened another patio in the back which is nice as well. I always make sure to stop here when I’m on whyte ave.”
Alexis Sears, a frequent patron, also adds:
“LOVE the black dog!! Super cute roof top area with fairy lights, dart boards and underdog comedy every Thursday. This is a great bar”
5. Malt & Mortar
| HAPPY HOUR | Monday to Friday: 3:00pm – 6:00pm |
| MENU | Appetizers, Snacks, Soup & Salads, Entrees, Burgers & Sandwiches, Dessert, Weekend Brunch, Cocktails, Whisky, Spirits, Wines |
| WEBSITE | https://maltandmortar.com/ |
| ADDRESS | 10416 82 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 2A2 |
| CONTACT DETAILS | Phone: (587) 454-6093 Email: [email protected] |
| OPERATING HOURS | Monday to Thursday: 12:00pm – 9:00pm Friday to Saturday: 12:00pm – 10:00pm Sunday: 12:00pm – 8:30pm |
You’ll find the Malt & Mortar along Whyte Avenue, which is known for its wide selection of Albertan and British Columbian draught beer. A modern gastropub that has rotating taps, it offers specialty tea cocktails, whisky, and wine as well.
Just like any millennial pub, it may not seem inviting at first with its monochrome interior styling that’s fitting of its “mortar” moniker. However, they have a wonderful patio seating that’s perfect to enjoy a couple of drinks after a hectic workday.
Happy hour here is every 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm from Monday to Friday, serving Draught Sleeves, 1oz Well Highballs, and 6oz glasses of House Wine at only $5 each. This saves you about $3 per drink, which is a pretty good deal to take advantage of despite the rather short duration of their happy hour.
They have a wide range of daily specials as well, but we like Thursdays the best for the half-price glasses of house wine and whisky, at 6oz and 1oz servings respectively.
They also have an off-menu $17.50 steak fries that are well worth the visit before the weekend, but the happy hour pickle chips are a customer favorite.
Ironically, what they have become known for is actually their multitude of vegan options, making the Malt and Mortar a known watering hole for vegans. With numerous offerings such as their Cauliflower Tacos and China Masala Mushrooms, other menu items can be made with vegan ingredients as well.
All in all, despite their simple happy hour offering, the deals are great and have appeased thirsty Edmontonians to keep coming back. With a diverse vegan menu, the Malt and Mortar earns a place on our list of the best happy hour spots in the city.
Pros
- One of the best patio bars in Edmonton
- Plenty of vegan food options
Cons
- Closes earlier than other bars
- Limited happy hour menu
Customer Reviews
While Malt and Mortar operates primarily as a bar, they’re more known for their pub fare. Sudeshna Bhattacharya enjoyed the vegan friendly options as he shares:
“Great place on Whyte Ave with lot of vegan / vegetarian options. We had crispy cauliflower, vegan burger,. Jackfruit tacos. Everything was super yummy. Ambiance was very pleasant.”
Their patio is also a customer favorite, just like Cassandra Durocher who writes:
“One of the best patios in the city! Great food and even better service. Don’t you dare skip on the tacos!”
6. Sugarbowl
| HAPPY HOUR | Monday to Sunday: 2:00pm – 7:00pm |
| MENU | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Beers, Wines |
| WEBSITE | https://www.thesugarbowl.org/ |
| ADDRESS | 10922 88 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6G 0Z1 |
| CONTACT DETAILS | Phone: (780) 433-8369 |
| OPERATING HOURS | Monday to Sunday: 9:00am – 12:00am |
The Sugarbowl is one of those unique and charming establishments that you can’t resist stopping by if you pass it. It’s known around the area as a lovely place to have brunch but they have a surprisingly vast menu of alcoholic drinks as well.
Its history is just as novel as its look – it started as a burger joint in 1943 and evolved to the bistro and bar that it’s known for today. The Sugarbowl’s location in the Garneau district positions it perfectly to serve the nearby Universities and Edmontonians who want to partake in its food and drink.
Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner all days of the week, we like their popular Cinnamon Buns which are baked fresh daily and are a staple take-out order for locals. However, if you’re dining in, you have to try the Sugarbowl Benny or the Chicken and Waffles.
If you just want some finger foods to go with your beverage, they’ve got Smoked Paprika Popcorn and Yam Fries to keep your hands busy and popping. Just make sure to order all your food before the kitchen closes at 11:30 pm though.
Known as the “sweetest place in Edmonton”, they have over 160 craft beers and 15 rotating taps, with happy hour running from 2:00 pm to 7:00 pm daily. So whether it’s Candian bottled beers or Belgian drafts, they’ve got something to suit your fancy.
The Sugarbowl earns a spot on our list of the best happy hour spots in Edmonton because of its charming ambiance and location, and the fact that it’s an iconic bistro in the area.
Pros
- Charming patio space
- Diverse and numerous craft beer options
Cons
- Often hard to get a table during happy hour
- Minimal options for vegans
Customer Reviews
Matt Woroschuk celebrated a special occasion at The Sugarbowl because of its romantic ambience. He writes:
“You helped make our anniversary special. Thank you for the amazing food and service. You all are amazing.”
Simon Reese, also adds:
“Great outdoor dining and service. Great beer selection. Get the yam fries!”
7. The Underground Tap & Grill
| HAPPY HOUR | Monday to Friday: 3:00pm – 6:00pm |
| MENU | https://www.undergroundtapandgrill.com/menu/ |
| WEBSITE | https://www.undergroundtapandgrill.com/ |
| ADDRESS | 10004 Jasper Ave, Edmonton, AB T5J 1R3, Canada |
| CONTACT DETAILS | Phone: +1 780-425-1880 Email: [email protected] |
| OPERATING HOURS | Monday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Friday: 11:00 AM – 1:30 AM Saturday: 3:00 PM – 1:30 AM |
The Underground Tap & Grill is an excellent choice for customers looking for impeccable and unique taps, gourmet food, and equally exceptional services that will surely redefine dining to a whole new level.
We like that their interior is intimate and filled with warm tones and textures and further highlighted by their lighting and dark mahogany furniture to exhibit a comfy yet luxurious look.
Furthermore, guests will get an excellent range of cuisines and menus that can readily accommodate the differing tastes and cravings of their clients.
Though note that there are mixed reviews when it comes to their services so interested diners may need to check some reviews regarding their place so that they know what to expect upon their visit.
Overall, with their fresh and luxurious choice of menu, their highly comfortable ambiance, and accommodating customer service, we strongly recommend diners looking for a unique blend of taps and cuisine to check them out.
Pros
- Cozy and intimate interior
- Prompt and friendly customer services
- 72 rotating taps are available
Cons
- Closed on Sundays (Though they are open on Sundays when there is a long weekend holiday on Monday)
Customer Reviews
Here are some reviews from their clients:
“The brunch was awesome, service was great atmosphere perfect. I’ve missed this place since moving out of downtown and I love its central location and ambiance. Serious deliciousness.”
“Had an excellent meal here, excellent choices on the menu, I thought anyway. Group of four and we had a good time, good service. I loved all the beer choices and the prices were reasonable.”
FAQs about Happy Hour in Edmonton
That’s our list of the best happy hour spots in Edmonton. So get ready to clock out and head on over for a drink or two!
What’s your favorite spot? Let us know in the comments below!
If happy hour isn’t a big deal for you and you just want to have a few drinks at a great place, then you should check out our list of the best bars in Edmonton.
