afterEIGHT: Calgary’s Most Exclusive New Cocktail Lounge

Calgary’s culinary scene continues to rise, and the latest gem in its crown is afterEIGHT, the opulent new cocktail parlour by celebrated chef Darren MacLean, opened earlier this year. Located within the ALT Hotel East Village, afterEIGHT serves as the perfect nightcap after dining at MacLean’s prestigious EIGHT restaurant.

Recently featured in The World’s 50 Best Bars article as one of the “11 Fabulous New Bars to Try in 2025,” afterEIGHT is a destination not to be missed. The bar is as intimate as it gets, with just eight seats, where guests are treated to a luxurious experience after the main EIGHT restaurant service concludes each night.

What makes afterEIGHT stand out is its cocktail menu, which draws inspiration from Japan’s Satoyama, a concept embodying the harmony between mountains and sea. Curated in collaboration with mixologist Yoshinobu Kimura, formerly of the renowned Tokyo restaurant Narisawa, the menu is a celebration of foraged ingredients, luxe spirits, and local Canadian produce. Each drink is served in handcrafted Kimura glassware, adding an extra touch of elegance.

For true spirit aficionados, afterEIGHT boasts a selection of rare and exclusive options. From the Dalmore Constellation – the only bottle in Canada – to a 30-year-old Flor de Cana rum, the range of spirits will leave no desire unmet, with prices ranging from $15 to $2000 per ounce.

afterEIGHT is open from 10 PM to 2 AM, welcoming both EIGHT diners and walk-in guests. To secure your spot, guests can call from the iconic white vintage phone located in the ALT Hotel lobby.

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