Swizzles

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Swizzles is a bias-free bar with a relaxed atmosphere that welcomes all. The crowd can include anyone from retired civil servants, trans youth, straight couples making out, or a table of college-aged lesbians, and everyone gets along just fine.

The bar has done a lot to change it's atmosphere over the years. While the staff has always been amazing and friendly, it was pretty shabby at first, but new floors, booths, an enclosed glass atrium and newer seating have dramatically improved the space. It's not glamorous, but it's welcoming.

The bar's biggest draw is the karaoke nights on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays (touted as Ottawa's best threesome) with Dog and Pony Sound. The Fridays generally skew a little more straight than the Sundays, whereas Sundays have a larger gay crowd, typically.

Mondays are a comedy night, and on Tuesdays Retrogamerbear hosts a games night. Thursdays after 10:30 the bar has drag shows, and Saturdays are dance nights, typically with house/techno music.

Now only one of three queer bars remaining in the city, Swizzles is a fun place to hang out with friends old and new.

If you know more details about this place, please email info@bankstreet.ca to share dates, facts, images or more.