The Bear Bar

After walking around for ages trying to find this place, it was a pleasant surprise walking downstairs into a Canadian-hunting-lodge like bar. Their cocktails are all so amazing, and I really digged the decor too. It reminded me of Shady Pines, probably from the similar style of deco

Almost too easy to walk past but come down the windy stairs and you've reached a secret spot that contrasts from the scene of Capitol Theatre and Thaitown/Koreatown above! The bar tenders will tell you their favourites on the menu and what's the best drink to start off with. Had the coffee martini which was great for those who like their cocktails strong! Also has comfy chairs you can just sink into after a long day at work!

An underground bar that is located close to the Capitol Theatre, it has subdued lighting that makes for a good pre-dinner theatre drinks or a night out on the town.

Offering a variety of beers, wines, and specialty cocktails, we went with one their signature drinks called the Bear Colada. Conveniently located on their $12 cocktail menu available during their happy hours. It had a blend of ra mixed with pineapple juice, coconut cream, and purée. It was refreshing and packed enough punch to get you going. It put you in a happy place with its umbrella and orange garnish which said tropical holiday!

The bar snacks were quite addictive so don't eat too many if you're having dinner afterwards.

Been back a few times and still impressed with the vibe and offerings of The Bear bar. A mixed crowd, good space for groups, board games out tje back, and - of course - some well mixed cocktails. Beware the uber sweet concoctions that some of them are (or dive right into them if they're your thing!)

Hidden under the stairs at Capitol Square, The Bear, doesn’t look like much from the outside. If you choose to descend, you’ll find a Nordic influenced basement bar with some thematic elements like two giant stuffed bears in the entranceway. It’s largely a long, dark, ski-lodge inspired open space, with a few cosy nooks and crannies where groups can gather away from the maddening crowd.

Like myself, the people mostly seem to be here for some good old-fashioned middle class pre-loading before enjoying dinner in any of Haymarket's neighbouring restaurants.

On Thursdays between 4pm-10pm, drinks – like a Gin Martini ($12) – are cheap, and full of booze, though a far cry from smooth or sophisticated. The bar is famous for their boozy cupcakes made by Mrs. Miggin, but on this particular visit I wanted to save my appetite for dinner.