These 8 Canadian bars are among North America’s 50 best

The opening menu at Vancouver's June on Cambie (No. 17). Photo by Juno Kim

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Two Canadian spots cracked the top 10 on the list of North America’s 50 Best Bars for 2026. Vancouver’s The Keefer Bar (No. 7), “lounge-slash-diner-slash-cocktail den,” and Toronto’s Bar Pompette (No. 8), with its “enthusiastic and exhaustive commitment to locavorism,” led the eight homegrown establishments in the annual ranking. For the second year running, the list was announced at an awards ceremony at the Vancouver Convention Centre.

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This year’s ranking also features 28 bars in the United States, 11 in Mexico and three in the Caribbean, with 15 new entries making their debut. Sip & Guzzle in New York was named the continent’s top bar, followed by Mexico City’s Bar Mauro and Bar Snack, also in New York, rounding out the top three.

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New York led the list with 13 bars, and Mexico City made a strong showing with seven. Vancouver and Toronto tied with four spots each, “reinforcing Canada’s growing influence on the global cocktail stage,” according to 50 Best Bars.

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This year’s award winners include The Keefer Bar, which was named the Best Bar in Canada.

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“Soft pink velvet seats, sunset lighting and a food-forward beverage list await at this chic little newcomer from Amber Bruce, the driving force behind The Keefer Bar,” according to 50 Best Bars. Founded in 2025, it “became an instant hit through two instantly viral classics: an umami-rich take on a Gibson (The Burnt Gibson) and a plate of Comté-stuffed raviolo dripping with Beurre d’Isigny (Pasta for Rachel).”

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Library Bar, one of the year’s new entries, was recognized for its “refined yet responsible approach to modern hospitality” with the Sustainable Bar Award. “The bar integrates seasonal ingredients, thoughtful sourcing and low-waste practices into its cocktail program, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability without compromising its elevated guest experience.”

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The votes of more than 300 anonymous North American bar industry experts, bartenders and bar owners, drinks writers, educators and “well-travelled” cocktail experts determined the 2026 ranking.

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“The bars on this year’s list are exemplary in their ability to push boundaries and influence hospitality not only in North America, but across the globe,” Emma Sleight, head of content for North America’s 50 Best Bars, said in a statement. “From established leaders to exciting new entries, the bars featured continue to push the standard of what a world-class drinks experience can be with their talent, creativity and resilience.”

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The Red Palomino cocktail at The Keefer Bar in Vancouver. Photo by Juno Kim

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North America’s 50 Best Bars 2026

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