The 4 Best Hotel Bars in Quebec City

Why it made the list

At Sam’s, the mixologists pride themselves of their complex and quirky creations. How do we know they’re any good? This is where off-duty bartenders in Quebec City go to impress a date. With excellent views on to the river, the bar’s floor-to-ceiling windows are an asset, but Sam’s also gets points for having super flattering lighting and plush navy “banquet” seating (Avoid the strange yellow stools at the bar). There is live music every Thursday through Saturday evenings, along with celebrity D.Js. Don’t leave without trying the house cocktail, called Jam Le SAM. It features vodka, pink pepper and bespoke maple syrup.

It was good enough for Princess Grace and Alfred Hitchcock. Read More

Why it made the list

Enlivening the lobby at the Auberge St. Antoine is their in-house lounge, Bar Artéfact. The variety of seating makes it easy to get comfortable. You can find a high-backed chair, a stool at the bar, a cozy alcove or a seat at a communal table. Once settled in, order a light meal or get right to the main event—the hotel’s epic list of cocktails. We recommend you try the Aphrodite, the Smoked Ceasar, or the Sugar Shack Mojito. Alternatively, go for the whiskey tasking trilogies, like the Tour of Scotland. Consider it part of your education. There is (free) live jazz on Thursday nights from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m

A boutique hotel that incorporates the historic stone walls Read More

Why it made the list

The Capitole is the holy trinity of date destinations: it’s a restaurant, a live theatre and a hotel. As if that isn’t enough, it has one more shining attribute—the restaurant bar. The bar at Il Teatro is a livey hub for after-theatre drinks. It runs the entire length of the restaurant, and provides comfortable white stools with cushy back rests (i.e. you can park yourself there comfortably for a few hours). All the cocktails and libations are superb, as is the chat. The same can be said for the theatre’s bar at intermission and before the shows.

A certified historic monument, Le Capitol combines a quirky Read More

Why it made the list

Known to jazz aficionados around the world, the Clarendon is steeped in musical history. Every Friday and Saturday night, from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m., there are live musical guests performing in the clubby bar—a hotspot in itself, with a grand piano and a fireplace. The table seating is good for small groups. Upholstered in metallic gold fabric, the high-back chairs are low and comfortable. For more than 40 years, the Clarendon has hosted icons like Diana Krall, Vic Vogel, John Zorn and Michel Donato. Remember to make a reservation for table seating, or you can ask to sit at the bar.

Built in 1870, this is the oldest operating hotel in Québec Read More