Just off the mountain, still in your boots:
Hit the Garibaldi Lift Company or as locals call it, the GLC. Conveniently located right at the bottom of Whistler Mountain this is an easy set of stairs from slope to bar. With its wrap around deck you can soak in the sun whilst you watch the die hards heading down off their last run. Or huddle up inside by the fire if the famous BC snow is falling.
This large bar boasts some great après music with a mixture of local bands, djs and touring artists, there’s always something going on. With daily drink specials as well as a vamped up bar menu, you can sup some quality beer whilst chowing down on a beef dip sandwich or share some fully loaded nachos.
The GLC offers a great way to wind down and talk about the days triumphs with an obligatory jug of their finest.
At the base of Blackcomb sits Merlin’s, home of the extreme après. It is the place of the killer $5 burger, and whether you’re in beer mode or Jagermister sessioning, this hip bar is always fun. With a huge patio so you can work on your goggle tan, this place often hosts some of Whistlers big party events. Before the winter starts, locals and lucky visitors are invited to ‘drink Merlin’s dry’ and this is literally what they mean! Easy on the pocket and hard on the liquor this place is a great place to do some serious après action.
Happy Hour
The Cinnamon Bear located in the Hilton is a great place to head for happy hour. With daily drinks specials that are aimed to please everyone, from the beer guzzlers to the martini sippers. With lives sports on the big screen, two pool tables, comfy chairs and a great big fireplace this is definitely a place to mellow out after a big day on the hill.
The Crystal Lounge on the main village stroll offers some of the best drink deals in the village. Easy on the pocket this place often hosts live bands, plays the popular sports and is the location for the Whistlers legendary karaoke nights. Tuck into some wings and get a jug of beer and see what the open mic night brings.
Dinner and Drinks
Whether you’re with a group of friends or with that someone special, Sushi Village is a great place for drinks and amazing food. Reservations not accepted, the queue by the door tells you how popular this place is, rated number one by locals in the Pique Magazine for ‘Best Sushi’.
Serving up its legendary sake margaritas, this vibrant and casual restaurant has the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Although if you’re not in the mood for sake you can choose from the extensive Japanese beer list for something a bit different.
The menu is imaginative and creative, mixing up the new with the traditional favourites. If you have something to celebrate you can book out one of the private rooms and mix and match off the menu so everyone gets to pick a favourite dish.
Friendly and lively, in the heart of one of the world’s top resorts, this restaurant truly embodies the casual yet high quality, Whistler style.
If you’re looking for somewhere to go to impress then look no further than the Bearfoot Bistro. Whether you sit in the extravagantly decorated dining room or up at the stylish Champagne bar, this place will blow you away.
Their Chef, Melissa Craig, won gold in the 2008 Canadian Culinary Championships, so we’ll leave the cooking up to her. All we need do it to decide what to have off the decadent menu, never mind the wine list that goes on forever.
The owner, Andre, is quite the showman, ask him about his sabering techniques and you may get the chance to see one of Whistlers most famous wine cellars as well as the most dramatic way to open a bottle of bubbly.
More of an event that an evening out, this is a dining experience you will remember for it’s amazing food and atmosphere.
Late Night including Live Music and Dancing
Maxx Fish always draws the crowds. Local DJ, Matt the Alien, spins an eclectic mix of the most recent and popular tunes, guaranteed to get you on that dance floor. Acid jazz, hip hop, house and live bands all keep things fresh and original, aiming to please the demanding Whistler crowds.
With different dancing levels, some poles, plush booths and a VIP area this small and always packed joint keeps it real with some great drinks specials that keep everyone in the mood. Centrally located this is a great place to head so you can throw some shapes on the dance floor.
Tommy Africa’s has an 80’s night to shout about, with discounted cover if you’re donning some lycra this is a night where anything can happen. This club draws DJ’s from around the world, which in turn pulls most of those Aussie workers you’ll meet all over Whistler off the stroll and onto the dance floor. With its international beats and Go-Go dancers this place will keep you hopping into the wee hours.
Whistler Writer 