Toronto’s cocktail scene is shining bright as four local bars land on North America’s 50 Best Bars list for 2026.
Earlier this month, we covered the newest 50 Best list ranking the top bars in North America from spots 51 – 100. In addition to the six Toronto locales that made the extended cut, four more Toronto bars have now clinched spots in the top 50, after the prestigious North America’s 50 Best Bars list for 2026 was just unveiled at a ceremony in Vancouver.
At the top of the list is Bar Pompette, which secured a coveted No. 8 spot, making it the highest-ranked bar in the city. Bar Pompette blends classic French bistro charm with a deep commitment to locally sourced ingredients, spotlighting Ontario terroir through thoughtfully crafted cocktails. With strong ties to regional farmers, the bar offers an ever-changing menu driven by seasonal availability, with a refined yet approachable experience for both cocktail and wine lovers alike.
At spot No. 19 comes the Fairmont Royal York’s Library Bar, which also received the Ketel One Sustainable Bar Award for 2026. Led by Beverage Director James Grant, the bar is celebrated for its literary- and film-inspired cocktail program, with a growing reputation through high-profile collaborations with some of the world’s top bars.
Queen West’s Mother claimed No. 22 on the list. The stylish Trinity-Bellwoods bar is built around fermentation, using inventive house-made ingredients from its in-house fermentorium to craft bold, unconventional cocktails. Founded by Massimo Zitti, the bar pairs its creative drinks with a moody, candlelit atmosphere and curated music.
Finally, new entry Civil Works found in the Waterworks Food Hall comes in at No. 29, famous for its grand mezzanine and grand hotel lounge feel. The menu mixes cheeky storytelling with nods to local history, while guests can also enjoy a steady flow of elevated food hall bites delivered straight to their table.
The list, which is curated by more than 300 industry experts, including top bartenders and drinks media, celebrates the absolute pinnacle of cocktail culture across Canada, the U.S., Mexico, and the Caribbean.
While New York’s Sip & Guzzle took the overall crown this year, Toronto’s presence in the Top 50 shows that the city is currently experiencing a golden age of mixology. Whether you’re looking for a sustainable martini or a drink made with house-fermented pears, there’s never been a better time to grab a stool and raise a glass to the local legends putting Toronto on the map.
