A favorite with local sports fanatics, V Lounge has all the trappings of a good sports bar. Catch the big game on one of ten televisions (with numerous satellite sports channels), and during commercials or half time, shoot some pool or challenge a fellow sports fan to a round of darts. The pub menu features all the required sports-watching grub — burgers, wings, poutine, nachos — plus fresh seafood and pasta.
A welcome retreat for many, Evolution is the only bar in Victoria that plays alternative music �— no top 40, no hip-hop, no country, no annoyingly repetitive electronica. Good nightly drink specials, and the lack of a cover charge before 10pm, ensure that Evolution remains a top pick.
The Shark Club caters to sports fans, and the crowd tends to be a bit more mature. Satellite and digital cable sports channels provide the entertainment on 29 televisions, and there are also a couple of pool tables if you feel like doing something a bit more active. Popular specials include a $5.99 pizza night, $.35 wings night, and reduced price beer buckets on Fridays.
The Mint employs several specialty chefs to prepare authentic and delicious international foods. There are plenty of vegetarian and vegan options, but meat eaters aren't neglected. Start with badam sandheko — spicy roasted peanuts with ginger and cilantro. Or create your own starter platter, choosing from over 40 meats, cheeses, vegetables and dips. Main dishes hail from several countries: spaghetti with spicy Italian sausage, Asian udon noodle soup, piquant Indian curries, even a kicky Nepalese chicken-and-chiles concoction. The space is stylishly East-meets-West, with low lighting, dark woods and spicy splashes of color. Entertainment provided by live bands or DJs runs the gamut of world music, from bossanova to reggae to dub.
Inspired by Colonial India, the Bengal combines the best of British and Indian décor with a satisfactorily relaxing and atmospheric result. With its views of the Inner Harbour and the rose gardens, it's ideal whether you're looking for a full meal or just a cocktail. An a la carte menu is available, but their curry buffet is especially popular at both lunch and dinner — you'll find a variety of traditional meat and vegetable based dishes complete with all the condiments. Friday and Saturday nights the Bengal features live jazz and an incredible chocolate dessert buffet.
One of the very hottest of Victoria's hotspots, Lucky features a good variety of music from both live bands and DJs, plus several fun theme nights. Full bar, too.
Victoria's only gay club supplies good times with karaoke, drag shows, pool tournaments and drink specials. Music, supplied by talented local DJs, ranges from top 40 to house.
Whether you're in the mood for relaxing with some friends or dancing yourself dizzy, Plan B can accommodate. On one side is a cozy lounge complete with couches and an intimate vibe; the other side is a high-energy club with the only lit dance floor in Canada. Expect to hear a variety of music, from 80s and top 40 to hip-hop and disco.
Dublin may be more than 4500 miles away, but you can be there in a few minutes! Irish Times is a carefully planned traditional Irish pub brimming with authenticity. The pub's two floors are a second home to many Victorians, who appreciate the craic — the overall positive vibe resulting from fine beer, traditional music, hearty food and lively companions. Irish Times provides live music every night, an array of Canadian and Irish beers, and a vast menu of traditional and contemporary Irish dishes. All you have to bring is yourself, and maybe a fun companion or two.