The Vancouver Convention Centre was alive with excitement on the evening of April 22, 2026, as cocktail enthusiasts and industry professionals gathered for the prestigious North America's 50 Best Bars awards ceremony. This marked the second year in a row that Vancouver hosted the event, which celebrates the finest bars and bartending teams across the continent.
Top Honors for a Local Gem
In a standout achievement, The Keefer Bar, located at 135 Keefer Street in Vancouver's historic Chinatown, was crowned the Best Bar in Canada. This establishment also secured an impressive No. 7 position on the overall 2026 list, highlighting its excellence in mixology and service.
National and International Recognition
The top spot on this year's list went to Sip & Guzzle in New York City, but Canadian bars made a strong showing overall. Canada boasts a total of 19 entries on the list, with the United States leading at 25 bars, followed by Mexico with four, and additional entries from Puerto Rico and Grand Cayman.
The selection process is rigorous, involving votes from over 300 independent cocktail experts, bartenders, educators, and drinks writers from across North America. This ensures a diverse and authoritative ranking that reflects the best in the industry.
British Columbia's Bar Scene Shines
Beyond The Keefer Bar, other bars in Vancouver and Victoria earned accolades. Last month, the bars ranked from No. 51 to 100 were announced, with several local spots receiving recognition:
- Vancouver is home to four bars on this extended list: Bagheera (No. 59), Meo (No. 64), Laowai (No. 72), and Mount Pleasant Vintage & Provisions (No. 91). Notably, Meo and Laowai also appeared on the 2025 list, demonstrating consistent quality.
- Victoria, despite its smaller size, punched above its weight with two listed bars: Humboldt Bar (No. 53) and Citrus & Cane (No. 87).
Other Canadian cities, including Toronto, Montreal, and Calgary, also contributed to the country's strong representation, showcasing the vibrant and diverse bar culture across the nation.
A Celebration of Excellence
The awards ceremony not only honored individual bars but also highlighted the growing influence of Canadian mixology on the international stage. With events like these, Vancouver continues to solidify its reputation as a hub for culinary and beverage innovation.
For those interested in exploring the full rankings, the complete list is available online at Theworlds50best.com, offering a comprehensive guide to the top drinking destinations in North America.
