When someone combines the words “beer” and “cocktails” chances are, you either think of a comma in between them, or you think of the common Shandy or Radler. But creative bartenders everywhere are starting to make better use of this frothy beverage. Head to any of the following places to experience a new take on a classic drink.
Louis Cifer Brew Works makes what they term “Hoptails,” beer-inspired takes on classic cocktails. With tastes ranging from their Lagerita to Gin Blossom to the enticing Root Beer, this Danforth brew pub is full of great ideas.
The 3 Brewers is actually a chain restaurant from France that has several locations in Ontario and Quebec, and a formula that works well. There is an extensive list of beer cocktails, most notably the White Sortilege, which combines maple syrup whiskey with white beer.
Victory Café has been an Annex haunt for more than 15 years, with fantastic brews available and great ambiance. They also offer a stout float, made with vanilla ice cream. Nothing more needs to be said, really.
C’est What has long been known as a great place to have a local beer with good food. But their beer-based take on mixology has taken their drink offerings to a whole new level. Please, please try the Mocha, made with the house brews Coffee Porter and Chocolate Ale.
Beer Bistro does beer well and so, it’s no surprise that they’ve done some experimentation within the genre. Do names like Früli Margarita, Bourbon Street Blanche and Smoky the Beezer sound enticing enough?
Barchef on Queen West specializes in mixology of the hard liquor variety, but nods its hat at its hoppy cousin with the island-inspired Jimmy Cliff, which has thyme-infused rum topped with a ginger beer foam.