Categories: Travel

Canada’s smallest bar is located in a historic Ontario district

Image via Standing Room Only

Did you know Canada’s smallest bar is located in Ontario? Standing Room Only is nestled in the heart of one of Guelph, Ontario’s most historic districts. Appropriately named, this local hot spot may be tiny, but it’s sure to leave a big impression!

The historic Ward district

According to Standing Room Only, “The bar’s mission is about providing a sense of community and reviving the essence of the neighbourhood’s past.”

The area known as “The Ward” has a past “reminiscent of Prohibition-era speakeasies” and there are rumours that the neighbourhood even had underground tunnels!

According to the Guelph Arts Council, during prohibition in Ontario (from World War I (1914-1918) until 1927 when the Liquor Control Board of Ontario was established), the Alice Street area where Standing Room Only is now located was a hot spot “for bootleggers and speakeasies.”

What to expect from Canada’s smallest bar

If you want to see Standing Room Only for yourself, you’re in for a treat! The bar/restaurant was recognized for its uniqueness and delicious menus in 2023, earning a spot on Open Table’s top 100 Restaurants list.

The intimate space holds around 10 people and features seating at a bar as you’re taken on a personal journey with the bartender.

The menu includes a little of everything such as classic cocktails like Old Fashions, Dirty Martinis, Negronis and Mules.

Wine and beer can also be enjoyed if that’s more your style.

If you’re worried about getting a spot before it fills up, Standing Room Only is available for reservations and you can personalize your experience even more by booking it out for a private event.

If visiting Canada’s smallest bar wasn’t on your bucket list, I hope it is now.