6 cocktails that bartenders say are super underrated in Toronto

You asked, we answered. With the cocktail scene forever growing, and craft concoctions becoming all the rage, we turned to the experts to help us navigate the space.

We asked a group of celebrated bartenders from some of Toronto’s most beloved establishment to share the city’s most underrated cocktails. Here’s what they had to say.

“The Night Owl at Northern Belle, a cosy and welcoming neighbourhood bar with warm cottage-y vibes. Great bar for a delicious and well-priced pint and a shot, but the Fernet laced espresso martini riff is simple yet elegant. Perfect for a nightcap after a date night dinner at Bar Vendetta, or the first drink on a Dundas West rip with the crew.” 

Santiago Espinel Otero, oversees the beverage programming at Frenchy (145 Richmond St. West)

“Without a doubt, it’s Bacio D’Isolo from Secrette Bar. People often overlook it because of its unconventional mix of Earl Grey and pineapple. But what they don’t realize is that Earl Grey is a tea blend which has been flavoured with the oil of bergamot. Its bergamot essence adds a unique twist to the citrusy pineapple flavours, perfectly complemented by the subtle notes of orange peel in Amaro Montenegro. It’s a cocktail crafted with precision, offering a perfect balance that deserves more attention.” 

Casey Ryan, owner and bartender, Electric Bill Bar (866 Bloor St. West)

“I would have to say the Milk Punch on tap at Civil Liberties, created by their bartender Kaz. This cocktail packs a punch and offers a really clever blend of flavours. The yogurt and green apple pair perfectly with the Tromba Reposado, and the mustard seed adds a subtle bite.”

Massimo Zitti, bartender, Mother Cocktail Bar (874 Queen St. West)

“I’d say the Tom Collins. A well-executed Collins, in my humble opinion, is a FANTASTIC drink but seems not to be very used in North American drinking culture.” You can enjoy a Tom Collins at a few hotspots, including a raspberry version at Hemingway’s and King Street West hotspot Saint John’s Tavern (though it’s off-menu), among others. 

Nick Meyer, regional beverage director, ABURI Restaurants Canada

Steven Tseng, mixologist at Skylight (W Hotel) and Regional Master of the Craft Beverage Winner

“‘Last Word’ is the most underrated cocktail in Toronto for sure. The flavour combines grassy, herb and citrus, and the complexity makes this cocktail very flavourful.”