5 trendy spots in the Exchange for your next Friday night tipple

Posted August 21, 2019 | Author Reba Lewis

Every now and then, it’s nice to grab a few friends for a good old after-work “pub crawl”. With so many places around Winnipeg to choose from, we thought it best to narrow the list down to the Exchange District.

Lounge
Nonsuch Brewery

These options are all within walking distance of each other, each offers its unique brand of swanky in the way of ambience and, of course, liquid courage. Maybe you’ll get to them all within one night, or perhaps you’ll need a few Fridays. Either way, here are five trendy spots for your next Friday of giggles and tipples.

Forth, McDermot Avenue, Winnipeg

Forth is all the rage for its coffees and what seems like an unassuming yet sophisticated menu, but when the clock strikes four, the cocktails get crafted and the mood shifts from pensive to party. Whether you choose to sit inside or on the rooftop patio is entirely up to you, just spare a thought for the rest of us as you sip on that artfully made cocktail.

Amsterdam Tea Room, Bannatyne Avenue, Winnipeg

Amsterdam Tea Room serves more than just tea. It serves tea with a twist, turning it in to a cocktail. Tea fans may not need to be sold on this concept, but non-tea drinkers, this is your ticket in to the tea-drinking crowd. The Dutch-inspired hotspot even has that Red Light District window setup for which the European city is famous.

Little Brown Jug, William Avenue, Winnipeg

Once an old stable, later home to the Red River Motor Coach Lines, a wallpaper store and even a print shop, the history of this old structure has led to what is now the Little Brown Jug. Combining elements of old bones with modern-day touches, the result is a sleek design of exposed brick and a quality brewing system all in house.

Nonsuch Brewery Co., Pacific Avenue, Winnipeg

It rains Belgian-styled ales at Nonsuch Brewery and the ceiling of golden umbrella lights and eager patrons are on hand to capture every drip that’s on tap. One of Winnipeg’s more recent entries into the brewing business, Nonsuch beers are made from local spring water and crafted right here in the province.

Patent 5 Distillery and Tasting Room, Alexander Avenue, Winnipeg

It may have taken the city 140 years, but Patent 5’s arrival on the scene in March meant that Winnipeg could once again boast about having a stake in the whisky business. Another old livery stable, this artisanal distillery offers small batches that go hand in hand with premium quality.

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