As the go-to round for the table and the signature welcome cocktail for visitors, the shaft holds high-prestige in Victoria. While some claim that the drink originated in Calgary, Victoria locals insist that Victoria is the official origin story of the shaft. The shaft is a staple cocktail on all Victoria drink menus. The craze around the cocktail has led to many interesting and tasty variations of the classic.

If you are a big fan of the shaft, then this is the article for you. We have put together our top suggestions of where you can grab a shaft in Victoria:

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Bard & Banker Pub

The Bard & Banker has taken the shaft to the next level with their Shaft Towers. This cocktail tower is the ultimate boozy brunch starter, or a “it’s finally Friday” celebratory drink to share. The Shaft Tower is $110 for four people and is available daily from 9am to 10pm.

Location: 1022 Government St., VictoriaWebsite: Bard & BankerInstagram: @bardandbanker

Bar 500 Eatery

The shaft is a very versatile cocktail with never-ending possibilities. Bar 500 Eatery has put its own spin on the shaft with their Cereal Milk Shaft. The drink features Corn Pop cereal infused almond milk, espresso, and Kahlua. Stop by the Oswego Hotel and visit Bar 500 Eatery to try their take on the classic shaft.

Location: 500 Oswego St., VictoriaWebsite: Bar 500 EateryInstagram: @bar500eatery

Citrus & Cane

At Citrus & Cane, you have your choice between an OG Shaft or a tropical C & C Shaft. The OG Shaft features vodka, Sheringham coffee liqueur, Forty Creek cream, and Mile Zero coffee. The C & C Shaft features coconut rum, Sheringham coffee liqueur, RumChata, and Mile Zero coffee. With its island vibe and caffeine kick, the C & C shaft is the perfect cocktail for the summer.

Location: 1900 Douglas St., VictoriaWebsite: Citrus & CaneInstagram:@citrusandcane

Nubo Kitchen + Bar

Nubo Kitchen + Bar presents a simple shaft with a bit of a twist. This shaft is the perfect take on a classic, featuring Shiso-infused vodka, Kahlua, Almond Baileys, cold brew, and cinnamon. If you find yourself on lower Pandora Avenue, drop by and try a refreshing shaft and Japanese cuisine at Nubo.

Location: 490 Pandora Ave., VictoriaWebsite: Nubo Kitchen + BarInstagram:@nubokitchenbar

Clarke & Co

What is better than an ice-cold shaft? An ice-cold donut-flavoured shaft! Clarke & Co levels up the shaft game with their Donut Shafts served in a sprinkle-rimmed glass, ideal for all sugar lovers.

Location: 1002 Blanshard St., VictoriaWebsite: Clarke & CoInstagram:@clarke_co

Moon Underwater Brewpub and Distillery

Moon Underwater Brewpub and Distillery are professionals at creating tasty shaft combinations. Available only at the distillery lounge and patio, the Moon Shaft Flights change weekly. Featuring creative flavours from candy bars to ice cream, the Moon Brewpub presents unique shaft combinations.

Location: 350 Bay St., VictoriaWebsite: [Moon Underwater Brewpub and Distillery] (https://www.moonunderwater.ca)Instagram: @moonunderwaterbrewery

Canoe Brewpub

Sometimes it is better to stick to the classics. Canoe Brewpub is no stranger to this idea with their daily 2pm to 5pm, 9pm to close, and all-day Sunday Happy Hour shafts for $5. Enjoy tasty shafts on Canoe Brewpub’s historic waterfront patio all summer long.

Location: 450 Swift St, VictoriaWebsite: Canoe BrewpubInstagram: @canoebrewpub

The Mint

The Mint features an irresistible S’mores shaft on their brunch menu. The S’mores shaft consists of Vodka, Kahlua, Frangelico, Crème de Cacao, Forty Creek cream, cold brew, and topped with marshmallows. This delicious drink is available on Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays from 11am to 3pm.

Location: 1414 Douglas St., VictoriaWebsite: The MintInstagram: @themintvictoria

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