5 TORONTO COCKTAIL BARS YOU HAVE TO TRY THIS SUMMER

Summer is here and there is nothing better on a hot day than a perfectly crafted cocktail. Whether you like yours shaken, stirred, or neat, these five Toronto cocktail bars will have you saying 'Cheers!'

Whether you love a tiki cocktail on a hot day or you're more of a fan of a dark cozy speakeasy, there is a Toronto cocktail bar for you. Here are five of my personal favourites for you to check out on your next night out.

Project Gigglewater

This Dundas West spot transforms itself each winter into a Christmas-themed wonderland. In summer though, they feature delicious frozen bevvies on top of their hand-crafted cocktail list. Project Gigglewater calls themselves the 'friendly neighbourhood cocktail spot', and that's absolutely the vibe. Chill, cozy, and the friendliest bar team in town!

Civil Liberties

Recently ranked one of the best bars in North America, Civil Liberties 'must be the spot' for any cocktail you can dream up. With no cocktail menu, the talented bartenders chat with you to determine what flavours and liquors you're in the mood for, and then craft something specific to you. You'd think that custom cocktails would be pricey, but they'll only cost you about $15, unless you request top-shelf booze. Each and every time I've gone here I've been blown away. They don't take reservations and don't have a proper sign-- get there early and look for the pineapple to find the door.

Founder

With aesthetic vibes and delicious food and cocktails, Founder is a top choice for a great girls' night out or a romantic date night. Their well-balanced drinks and small plates are all delicious, but it's the Dolce Spritz that I dream about between visits. So tasty!

Portlight on Bloor

I'm a sucker for a tiki bar, and this pirate-themed one on Bloor Street is so fun! On their menu you'll find classic rum cocktails as well as inventive twists on tiki flavours. You can enjoy inside the pirate ship bar, or on their fantastic patio. The Pearl Diver is my favourite dessert-like cocktail in the city, with vanilla ice cream involved, it's indulgent. The Blue Drink (pictured above!) is an off-menu concoction our bartender was playing with, it tasted like vacation in the best possible way.

XXX

A hidden speakeasy, this spot beneath Little Sister on Portland is a real treat for any cocktail lover. With very limited spaces, getting in is a trick, but once inside, it doesn't disappoint. My favourite cocktail had flavours of a PB & J sandwich, complete with a toasted plantain garnish. Inventive, exciting, and delicious!

Have you visited any of these cocktail spots? Did I miss one of your favourites? Let me know!