November 21, 2025

| 6 min read

Staff Favorites

Victoria has a nightlife scene for everyone—from cozy pubs like Big Bad John’s and Leopold’s Tavern to lively spots like Paparazzi Nightclub and The Vicious Poodle. Whether you want craft beer, drag shows, or a friendly local hangout, there’s a place to suit your vibe.

Staff favourites

We love to go out and have a great time, so that's why we want to share our absolute favorite places to spend the evening with you. If you run into one of us there - don't be afraid to say hi!


Big Bad John's

If you only go out once in Victoria, make it BBJs!

There’s peanut shells on the floor, bras on the walls

and great old timey music playing!


919 Douglas St.

https://strathconahotel.com/big-bad-johns


Leopold's Tavern

Leopold’s Tavern is a great place if you want good beer

and good eats! They also have special discounts on

menu items every Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday

night!


570 Yates St.

https://leopoldstavern.com/


Swan's Brewpub

When the staff of Ocean Island are not hanging out

in our own fabulous cafe, you will find them at Swans.

Warm, friendly and brewing their own delicious beers.


506 Pandora Avenue

https://swansbrewery.com/pub/


Paparazzi Nightclub

Formerly Prism, Victoria’s hottest gay club hosts ultra-

sassy drag nights and regular club nights featuring the

queerest selection of techno and disco ever.


642 Johnson St.

Paparazzi Nightclub


Darcy's Pub

Darcy’s is your traditional Irish Pub straight down to the

decor inside, always a laugh with great music and tasty

beers.


1127 Wharf St.

https://www.darcyspub.ca/


The Bent Mast

Local bar in James Bay that is cozy and friendly, and is

also known to be haunted!


512 Simcoe St.

https://www.thebentmastvictoria.com/


Smith's Pub

Rumor has it this place was named after the band.

Off the main drag, Smith’s is decked out like an Austin

Powers movie set and, fittingly, mostly plays Brit Pop.


777 Courtney St.

https://smithspub.com/


The Vicious Poodle

If you’re looking for a drag variety show, whether that’s

drag bingo, or just a good old performance, look no

further than The Vicious Poodle!


726 Johnson St.

https://viciouspoodle.com/


Fernwood Inn

This great neighborhood pub is classy and often

packed. They have a good selection of beers and a

tasty fusion menu.


1302 Gladstone St.

https://fernwoodinn.com/menu/


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