These options are all within walking distance of each other, and each offers its unique brand when it comes to menu and atmosphere. Maybe you’ll get to each of them within one night, or perhaps you’ll need a few weekends to try them all. Either way, here are six trendy spots for your next evening tipple.

Amsterdam Tea Room

103-211 Bannatyne Ave

Amsterdam Tea Room serves more than just tea; it serves tea with a twist, turning it into a cocktail unlike any other you may have tasted before. In summer, enjoy the lively patio that’s right in the heart of the Exchange, and if you time your visit correctly - during the TD Winnipeg International Jazz Festival, for example - you may have the backdrop of live music from Old Market Square. There’s a fantastic food menu of sharing plates, and the tea cocktail flights are perfect for a group of friends to sample.

Little Brown Jug

336 William Ave

Once an old stable and later home to the Red River Motor Coach Lines, a wallpaper store and even a print shop, there’s a lot of history in the building that now houses Little Brown Jug. Combining elements of old bones with modern-day touches, the result is a sleek design of exposed brick and a quality, in-house brewing system. In summer, enjoy a cold drink on a warm day on their stylish patio. While the brewery is obviously known for its beer, there’s a good selection of cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks, too. If you get hungry, feast on hearty staples such as perogies, nachos, smokies, pretzels, and a dynamite charcuterie board.

Nonsuch Brewery Co.

125 Pacific Ave

Discover the perfect blend of ambiance, libations and culinary delights during your next memorable evening at Nonsuch Brewing Co. Featuring a locally-inspired food menu with an array of mouthwatering shareable plates that include pasta, salads and cheeseboards, “Le burger” is often named as one of Winnipeg’s best burgers and is nothing short of a revelation. Expand your palate with the ever-changing selection of beer on tap, signature cocktails, wine and craft vodka seltzers, with gluten-free and non-alcoholic beverage options also available. The taproom is exceptionally cozy and chic, but if you feel like being outdoors in summer, get there early to snag a spot on the small patio out front.

Patent 5 Distillery

108 Alexander Ave

It may have taken the city 140 years, but Patent 5’s arrival on the scene 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. Expect incredibly innovative cocktails that implement Manitoba flavours whenever possible. In addition to the cool ambience of the cocktail room, Patent 5 also offers tours and mixology classes.

Rosé Coffee and Wine Bar

474 Main St Unit B

Word on the street is that Rosé Coffee and Wine Bar has the best espresso martini in the city. Founded by Kieu Nguyen, the fashionable spot has made a huge splash in the cocktail scene in the Exchange since opening in December 2022. With velvet booths, warm ambiance and drool-worthy food and drinks to choose from, it’s a great option for a night out with friends. Enjoy a diverse selection of wine, local beer and excellent cocktails, including the aforementioned espresso martinis (make sure to try the flavour of the month!).

Cordova Tapas and Wine

93 Albert Street

If your group is craving a Spanish vibe on your self-guided pub crawl of the Exchange, head to Cordova Tapas and Wine. There’s an undeniable energy when you walk in the door, and you’ll often find lively events happening on weekends (try to catch one of the Bodgea Boogie nights). As the name suggests, tapas and wine are the draw here, but there’s a solid cocktail list that includes classics such as Old Fashioneds, margaritas and martinis. It’s an ideal spot for sharing good food, good drinks and a lot of laughs with friends.