The best bars & nightlife in Ottawa

3 bars & nightlife we’ve checked and stand behind — with the story on each one. Not a ranking; a record.

Browse another shelf: all of Ottawa’s best · Restaurants · Antiques, Thrift, & Vintage · Health & Wellness

Pinned in Ottawa today

This spot is open today.

Two pinned places a day in Ottawa — $10 here, $25 adds the newsletter. List your business →

Paid placements are always marked.

Nightlife · 3 places · showing the latest additions first

Shakers Sports Bar & Grill

Nightlife

Lively hangout with sports on the TVs offering an extensive craft beer list, plus bar bites & pizza.

121 W Stevenson Rd

“Lively hangout with sports on the TVs offering an extensive craft beer list, plus bar bites & pizza.”

Website ↗

Waterman Winery & Vineyards, Inc.

Nightlife

Craving a low-key afternoon close to home. Waterman Winery & Vineyards, Inc. pours handcrafted regional wines made from grapes grown right…

11582 Waterman Rd (Waterman)

“Craving a low-key afternoon close to home. Waterman Winery & Vineyards, Inc. pours handcrafted regional wines made from grapes grown right on their fourth-generation Tuntland Farms, with relaxed tastings, vineyard walks, and a sustainable, country setting that makes DeKalb feel deliciously rural for an hour or two.”

From the DeKalb newsletter, August 7, 2026

Website ↗

Gilted Edge Winery

Nightlife

Family owned since 2019, Gilted Edge Winery brings boutique, small-batch wines to the Kendall County area, plus a charming spot for…

9396 Plattville Rd (Newark)

“Family owned since 2019, Gilted Edge Winery brings boutique, small-batch wines to the Kendall County area, plus a charming spot for weddings and events. If your week needs a local pour and a reason to toast, keep an eye on their blog for happenings.”

From the Joliet newsletter, August 12, 2026

Website ↗

Listed here?

You’ve earned the mark — get the BaseLocal’s Best badge for your site →. Want in? List your business →