It’s Friday night, the city lights are beckoning, and your stomach is rumbling. A cold beer sounds like the perfect start to the weekend, but what about food? Are you stuck with the same old greasy fries and predictable pub fare? Thankfully, downtown is upping its game when it comes to bar food. Beyond the usual chips and dip, a burgeoning scene of culinary creativity has taken hold, transforming downtown bars into destinations for truly delicious eats.
We’re not talking about your average microwaveable fare. We’re talking gourmet burgers dripping with artisanal cheese, globally inspired small plates designed for sharing, and unexpected culinary surprises that will redefine your perception of “bar food.” This guide shines a spotlight on some of the best downtown bars offering exceptional food, from reimagined comfort food to innovative culinary creations perfect for pairing with your favorite beverage.
The Classics, Elevated
Sometimes, nothing hits the spot quite like a classic burger and fries. But even these tried-and-true staples can benefit from a little culinary TLC. A handful of downtown bars are taking the standard burger and fries experience to new heights, proving that simple doesn’t have to mean boring. They achieve this by focusing on high-quality ingredients, creative preparation methods, and a genuine passion for perfecting the basics.
Take, for example, The Golden Pint, a local favorite known for its lively atmosphere and commitment to supporting local breweries. While their beer selection is undoubtedly impressive, their “Golden Burger” is the star of the show. Forget the dry, tasteless patties of yesteryear; this burger features a juicy, locally sourced beef patty, topped with melted Gruyere cheese, caramelized onions, crispy bacon, and a tangy aioli, all nestled between a perfectly toasted brioche bun. Served with hand-cut, seasoned fries, this burger is the epitome of comfort food done right.
Then there’s The Taproom on Main, a downtown institution famous for its wings. Forget the bland, pre-sauced wings you might find elsewhere. The Taproom’s wings are brined overnight, then smoked to perfection before being flash-fried to achieve that perfect crispy-on-the-outside, juicy-on-the-inside texture. The real magic, however, lies in their sauce selection. From the classic buffalo to the more adventurous mango habanero, and a truly unique maple bacon glaze, there’s a flavor for every palate. These aren’t just wings; they’re a culinary experience. If you are looking for bar food downtown this wing joint can’t be missed.
Finally, The Corner Bar & Grill might be known for its extensive whiskey selection, but their loaded fries are a downtown legend. These aren’t your average soggy, under-seasoned fries. They start with crispy, thick-cut fries, then smother them in a generous helping of melted cheddar jack cheese, crumbled bacon, scallions, and a drizzle of sour cream. For an extra kick, add jalapeños. These fries are the perfect shareable appetizer, guaranteed to satisfy even the most intense cravings. The chefs at Corner Bar understand that sometimes you just want that greasy, cheesy goodness with a few friends while enjoying bar food downtown.
Small Plates & Shareable Bites
Sometimes, you’re not looking for a full meal; you just want a few bites to share with friends while enjoying a round of drinks. Luckily, several downtown bars have embraced the small plates trend, offering a diverse selection of tapas-style dishes that are perfect for sharing, sampling, and satisfying your appetite without committing to a heavy meal. These bars celebrate flavor and foster a sense of community by encouraging guests to try a little bit of everything.
The Velvet Lounge, a sophisticated cocktail bar known for its expertly crafted drinks, also boasts an impressive menu of small plates. Their crispy calamari, served with a zesty lemon aioli, is a perennial favorite, and their grilled shrimp skewers, marinated in a garlic herb butter, are bursting with flavor. For a taste of Italy, try their bruschetta, topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze. The Velvet Lounge understands that delicious bar food downtown can include global flavors and fresh ingredients.
For those seeking a more sophisticated experience, The Wine Cellar, as the name suggests, offers an extensive wine list paired with a curated selection of charcuterie and cheese boards. Their charcuterie board features a rotating selection of artisanal meats, cheeses, olives, and crackers, perfect for pairing with your favorite glass of wine. Their cheese board showcases a variety of local and imported cheeses, ranging from mild and creamy to sharp and pungent. Both boards are artfully presented and offer a delightful sensory experience. These are ideal for sharing with friends or enjoying as a light meal. The Wine Cellar’s food options are often paired with events and specials designed to bring people bar food downtown.
And for the vegetarian or vegan diner, The Green Leaf Tavern provides some excellent offerings. The most popular choice is their vegetable spring rolls or the vegan tacos. The spring rolls have a vibrant flavour thanks to fresh herbs and are served with a tasty peanut sauce. The tacos come packed with black beans and avocado and are perfect for pairing with a local craft beer.
Hidden Gems & Unexpected Finds
Sometimes, the best bar food downtown can be found in the most unexpected places. These are the bars that might not be primarily known for their food, but offer surprisingly delicious options that are worth seeking out. Discovering these hidden gems can be a truly rewarding culinary adventure.
The Dive Bar, known for its no-frills atmosphere and affordable drinks, might not seem like the obvious choice for a great meal, but their grilled cheese sandwich is a hidden gem. Forget the basic Kraft singles; this sandwich features a blend of cheddar, provolone, and mozzarella cheese, grilled to golden perfection on thick-cut sourdough bread. It’s simple, satisfying, and surprisingly delicious. What makes it stand out? They actually use butter on the bread and do not skimp on the cheese. It is pure comfort food and really does stand out in the genre of bar food downtown.
The Sports Den might be primarily focused on broadcasting games and serving cold beer, but their weekly food specials are legendary. From Taco Tuesday to Wing Wednesday, there’s always something new and exciting to try. Keep an eye on their social media pages to see what’s on offer. You might be surprised to discover your new favorite dish. If the sports den is near you bar food downtown could become part of your weekly viewing experience.
Drinks to Pair With Your Bites
Of course, no discussion of bar food is complete without mentioning the drinks. The right drink can elevate your dining experience and complement the flavors of your meal. Here are a few suggestions for pairing drinks with different types of bar food:
- Burgers: A classic craft beer, like an IPA or pale ale, pairs perfectly with a juicy burger. For a more sophisticated option, try a classic cocktail, like an Old Fashioned or Manhattan.
- Small Plates: Lighter cocktails, like a gin and tonic or a spritzer, are a great choice for pairing with small plates. Wine, particularly a crisp white wine or a light-bodied red, is another excellent option.
- Spicy Dishes: Refreshing drinks, like a margarita or a mojito, can help to cool down your palate after a spicy meal. Beer with citrus notes, like a wheat beer or a blonde ale, is also a good choice.
Conclusion
Downtown offers a vibrant and diverse range of bar food options, from classic favorites to innovative small plates and unexpected culinary surprises. Whether you’re craving a gourmet burger, shareable appetizers, or a hidden gem dish, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your appetite. So, the next time you’re downtown and feeling hungry, skip the fast food and head to one of these amazing bars. Explore the featured bars, discover your own favorites, and enjoy the perfect combination of good food and drinks in a vibrant downtown setting. Remember to always drink responsibly and plan for a safe ride home. Your new favorite bar food downtown is waiting to be discovered!
