The Best Way to Après at Canada’s Legendary Ski Resort

Whistler Blackcomb’s après-ski scene is just as famous and diverse as its slopes. The two side-by-side mountains offer skiers mellow runs to cruise down and seriously steep lines. And at day’s end, you’ll find both mild and wild spots to toast your turns. Whether you choose to dance in your ski boots or sip classy cocktails and nosh tapas, you can be certain the food and drinks will be hyperlocal and utterly delicious, especially at these six apex après-ski bars and restaurants. 

The Library by The Macallan

For whiskey connoisseurs: Back for a second season, this pop-up speakeasy located off the lobby of the Four Seasons Resort and Residences Whistler boasts the largest collection of The Macallan in town, including bottlings such as the Sherry Oak 30 Years Old and Rare Cask. Cozy up by the open fire, and sip a glass neat. Or pair fancy snacks, like Kaviari caviar and gaufrette potato chips, with one of the half-dozen Macallan-focused cocktails, crafted with elements from Whistler's flora, including pine needle tincture and local honey.

Flute & Fromage

Where to channel the Alps: A local former ski racer distilled her favorite global après-ski experiences into this darling natural wine shop and cheese bar that opened in Whistler Village last spring. At Flute & Fromage, share a wine flight and cheese and charcuterie board on the patio, or indulge in Alpine-inspired dishes such as tartiflette and Berthoud Savoyard fondue.

The Mallard Lounge

For cocktails and acoustic sets: At day’s end, schuss straight to the back door of Fairmont Chateau Whistler. At the base of Blackcomb Mountain in the quiet Upper Village, the hotel’s sprawling Mallard Lounge is considered the town living room. Skiers are encouraged to kick off their boots and get comfy in fireside armchairs as local bands perform. A menu of hearty dishes, like locally sourced burgers and short rib poutine, makes it easy to turn après into an early dinner. Be sure to try the resort’s new signature Blackcomb Mountain Gin, crafted from Pemberton Valley hops, cedar tips, and juniper berries and made in collaboration with local distillery Montis; it’s the star of the lounge’s citrusy Northern Soul cocktail.

Bar Oso

For civilized sips and snacks: This intimate space transports skiers to Spain with its moreish menu of tapas, pintxos, and creative G&Ts. Bar Oso chef Jorge Muñoz Santos is a native of Madrid and transforms local ingredients into childhood favorites, like patatas bravas and spicy lamb albondigas (meatballs). 

Garibaldi Lift Co.

For DJ tracks and dancing: Known locally as the GLC, this popular bar located just above the Whistler Village Gondola Building provides the perfect perch to sip craft brews and watch skiers rip down the slopes. The enormous outdoor space is studded with firepits, and the vibe quickly transitions from a low-key spot to sip hot toddies to a full-on dance party once DJs start spinning. After the sun goes down, Garibaldi Lift Co. turns into a nightclub inside.

Dusty’s Bar & BBQ

Where the locals party: Nestled at the base of Creekside Gondola, Whistler’s original watering hole still throws one of the rowdiest après parties, fueled by shotskis and live music from local acts like The Hairfarmers. Be prepared to swap your ski boots for cowboy boots at biweekly country parties. Sop up potent cocktails with huge platters of Korean brisket and fall-off-the-bone tender ribs. Regulars contend Dusty’s serves the town's best Caesar, a Canadian spin on the Bloody Mary. You decide.