Ian CheesemanI recently attended a friend’s party and complimented him on his excellent bar cart choices. I saw a lot of rare whiskeys, aged tequilas, and hard-to-find rum selections.
He preened and told me that his go-to liquor store gives him updates about small-batch imports and limited-edition releases—and at good prices, too! I was seriously impressed (and of course, so very jealous).
If you also want to elevate your alcohol game, don’t just go to any old shop. Here are the only liquor stores in Toronto that legit booze snobs shop from.
How much does liquor cost in Toronto?
Liquor in Toronto can cost anywhere from $30 to $100+ per bottle, depending on the type and brand.
A standard 750 ml bottle of mid-range vodka or rum usually runs about $35 to $45 at the LCBO. Premium whiskies or aged spirits can go upwards of $70, wine starts around $10 to $15, and craft beer typically costs $3 to $5 per can.
1. Garrafeira
If you’re craving a taste of Portugal liquor, then Garrageira is the spot for you.
Their shelves are stocked with wines, spirits, and beers from some of the country’s best regions (Alentejo, Douro, Minho, etc.), so if you’re into authentic, indigenous varieties, you’ll be in heaven. Just note that their store has a stronger focus on wine.
What’s cool is that they offer wine samples and even give complimentary sweets along with your purchase, like Portuguese tarts and chocolates.
To complement your liquor haul, they also carry imported goodies like olive oil, cod, mackerel, and chocolate.
You can drink inside the shop or on the patio, which has a cute, European vibe (e.g., wine barrels for tables).
And if you can’t drop by? They provide online delivery.
Full of character, charm, and incredible finds
“What a hidden gem! This Portuguese wine shop is truly one of a kind—full of character, charm, and incredible finds. From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted with genuine warmth and hospitality. The owner is absolutely hilarious and makes everyone feel like a longtime friend, always going the extra mile to ensure guests feel welcome and eager to return. The selection is fantastic. Beautiful Portuguese wines, rich olive oils, aromatic coffees, and more. Their wine tasting events are a real treat, offering a perfect mix of fun and discovery. It’s not just a shop, it’s an experience. If you’re looking for authenticity, quality, and a place that feels like home, this is it!”
Marina Serzhan, Google Review
The 1920 cognac was amazing
“Good spirits and good vibes. Excellent selection of Portuguese wines, beer, as well as non-alcoholic drinks. The 1920 cognac was amazing, as well as the pastel de nata. Whenever I’m in Toronto, I will be stopping in. Thanks for the great service, Maria. Top Shelf!!”
John DePina, Google Review
2. Reid’s Distillery
Reid’s Distillery started as a family passion project to create bold, creative London Dry-style gins similar to those they discovered while living in the UK. What began as kitchen experiments soon evolved into a full-fledged Toronto distillery.
They’re known for their amazing and unique gin selections, made from Canadian wheat, wild-foraged juniper, and various local botanicals. A famous offering is their Signature Reid’s Gin.
As for flavors, they have something for every kind of gin lover, from floral, spicy, and citrusy blends to sweet, aged, or herbal infusions.
In addition to gin, ready-to-drink gin and tonics and pre-made cocktails are available. You can even buy exclusive store merch and personalized bottles—perfect gifts for that gin lover in your life.
Note that we heard a few whispers about their slow service.
Awesome family-owned business. High-quality gin.
“Awesome family-owned business. High-quality gin. Love the citrus. The food is also awesome. Great event space. Great spot to hang out and support local business.”
Craig Stanley, Google Review
For sure, we’ll be back for more gin and tonic!
“We went for the gin and jazz on a Wednesday night, and it was absolutely amazing. We had a great time, the band was great, and the staff was very friendly. We had dinner cheese and charcuterie platter, great price, and everything was delicious. We had some drinks, and the smoky and spicy gin and tonic was our favorite of all. For sure will be back for more gin and tonic!”
Fernanda Tavares, Google Review
3. Bossanova
Bossanova is a haven for rare, artisanal, and hard-to-find beer, wine, and cider. Their shelves are filled with bottles from small, independent producers around the world—many of which you won’t see at big-box liquor stores.
Their wine collection leans classic and thoughtful, often organic or biodynamic, while the beer covers everything from traditional lagers to wild, experimental brews.
We love that they stock rare gems like obscure Japanese sake from specific regions, authentic white port from Portugal, and delicious herbal liqueurs from Italy.
If you’re staying in-store, you can also order locally made shareable snacks to pair with your purchase (examples include olives, Marcona almonds, and Spanish-style chips). For busy bees, they offer an online delivery service.
Just keep in mind that their beer can be a bit pricey.
Curated selection of wines from around the globe
“Bossanova Wine and Beer is more than just a bottle shop; it’s an experience. The curated selection of wines from around the globe is impressive, and the staff’s expertise is truly commendable. They’re always happy to offer personalized recommendations based on your tastes. While I can’t speak for the beer selection, the wine offerings are top-notch. It’s the perfect place to find that special bottle for a gift or to treat yourself.”
Ali K, Google Review
Interesting wine and beer selections
“New and excellent addition to Roncesvalles. Interesting wine and beer selections, stuff you aren’t getting at the LCBO. Definitely looking forward to trying some new beers.”
Keymon Derpis AKA Brett H, Google Review
4. LCBO
LCBO is known for its extensive wine and spirits collection. While you might not find ultra-rare bottles here, there’s no shortage of elegant and well-curated options.
You can visit their Vintage Wine selection, which is filled with classic French and Italian labels. Or browse their Craft Beer section and Cold Beer room that offers seasonal and local picks—you can even fill a fresh jug of draft right in-store!
If spirits are more your thing, they carry popular staples and a few hard-to-find liquors like Yellow Chartreuse.
We like that they have product consultants on hand to help answer questions and give recommendations. You can also sample premium spirits before committing to a bottle at their tasting bar.
No worries if you’re too busy to browse. You can simply order online and pick up your items on the same day.
Very extensive wine collection, including vintage
“Built initially as a rail station serving what was back then the north side of the city, this location is operated by one of the largest LCBOs. It has a very extensive wine collection, including vintage brands. They organize a tasting as they have a designated wing for it. Visiting this location is an experience in itself. Plus, if you are looking for something in particular, you would probably find it here.”
Petre Diaz, Google Review
Staff are both helpful and knowledgeable
“A beautifully merchandised store with an amazing section of everything: beer, craft beer, scotch, champagne, vintage selections, and more. There is even a special room that hosts events. Ample free parking too. Staff are both helpful and knowledgeable. In a historic train station, too.”
Anita Windisman, Google Review
5. Mill Street Retail Store
Mill Street Retail Store opened in 2002 in Toronto’s historic Distillery District, and they’ve been brewing with purpose ever since.
They kicked things off with their Original Organic Lager, which wasn’t just their first beer—it was also Ontario’s first certified organic brew. Over time, they committed further, and now, all their core beers have become 100% organic.
Their lineup includes year-round classics like Tankhouse Pale Ale, Spin Session IPA, and Cobblestone Stout—all crafted to be premium and easy to enjoy.
Now, if you’re feeling adventurous, don’t miss their “What’s New” section, where you’ll find one-time seasonals and returning favorites.
Beyond beer, they offer a Single Barrel Canadian Whisky, giving spirit lovers something to sip, too!
While the vibe here is usually friendly, we heard reports of free samples being charged.
The beer is second to none
“Friendly staff make this the perfect place to have a pint while waiting for a show.
The beer is second to none. Best on tap.”
Jennifer Cote, Google Review
The price is amazing
“Great beer, organic. The price is amazing. Customer service is great. Thank you for introducing me to a high-quality product.”
Miss J Rich, Google Review
