the cure for the Common Night
Step into 1875. Hidden beneath the ByWard Market, we dispense expertly crafted elixirs, house-made tinctures, and a stiff dose of prohibition-era mischief.
Consultations nightly — no appointment necessary, but a reservation is wise.
Distilled from History
Before it was a lounge, it was a sanctuary. These cellar walls have kept secrets since 1875 — back when the cure for whatever ailed you came in a bottle and a whisper. Today we pay homage to the bootleggers, herbalists and undertakers who came before us. From the hand-carved oak bar to the velvet-draped corners, every detail is prescribed to carry you back to a time when a cocktail wasn't just a drink — it was medicine for the soul.
What’s happening?
Thursdays - Live Jazz
· 7:00 PM to late
The house band takes over and the whole cellar hums. Order a Remedy, sink into a velvet corner, and let the brass do the rest. Bring good company — we'll handle everything else.
Wednesdays - The Alchemist's Draw
· 7–10pm
Half lottery parlour, half séance. Bingo with a wicked streak: themed cocktails, cheeky prizes, and a dab of the macabre. Mark your card and tempt fate.
54 Club - YOW draw
Every week we draw one lucky patient to win a $25 gift card, good at any venue at 54 York. To enter, join the Society or ask your server. Fate favours the seated.
Pick Your Potion
Whether you're drawn to the theatrical “Mortician” or a botanical “Bliss,” our bartenders are standing by to prescribe the perfect pour. Undecided? Ask for the Dealer's Choice — tell us your spirits, your cravings and your allergies, and let us diagnose your palate.
Reviewed on Google · 4.5★ · 450+ reviews
“The atmosphere is superb. The lighting is moody, and the exposed stone and brick are the kind of thing other basement bars only wish they had… service was excellent and very friendly. We had a lovely evening.”
— Kyle K. ★ ★ ★ ★ ★“Went during Thursday Jazz night — had a fantastic seat and server, lots of ambient lighting and good vibes!”
— Amrita S. ★ ★ ★ ★ ★“All of the best cocktails I've ever had were made here. My favourite place in the world to go for a drink.”
— Jaime W. ★ ★ ★ ★ ★“An absolute wizard at cocktail making! We will absolutely be back.”
— Logan K. ★ ★ ★ ★ ★We came as a large group for a surprise party in the private space and it was lovely! The food was fantastic, the drinks were great and the service was even better.
— Taylor F . ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ “The atmosphere here is a proper vibe. Excellent bar.”
— Eric V. ★ ★ ★ ★ ★Private events
Behind the main bar hides our private speakeasy room — a cellar-within-a-cellar seating up to 18. Full kitchen, full bar, full discretion: the perfect backdrop for birthdays, corporate nights, or any occasion that deserves a little theatre. It's the worst-kept secret in the ByWard Market, and the best room in it.
happy hour
The night's second wind.
Sundays to Thursdays,
10pm to midnight
— half-price martinis,
select wines by the glass,
and first-light draught.
* civic holidays, school holidays,
and long weekends excluded
Secure Your Spot!
A romantic evening, a night out, or something worth celebrating — the cellar sets the scene. Seating is limited by design, so book early to claim yours.
HOW TO FIND US
There's no neon and no name on the door. Look for the unmarked entrance beneath Starling at 54 York Street,
take the stairs down, and the cellar reveals itself. If you get lost — follow the jazz.
