Finding Your Next Pint Without Breaking the Bank: A London, Ontario Dive Bar Deep Dive
London, Ontario might not be the first city that springs to mind when you think of a buzzing nightlife, but let me tell you, as a local who’s navigated its watering holes for years, we’ve got some seriously underrated gems. If you’re looking to wet your whistle without emptying your wallet, you’ve come to the right place. Forget those overpriced downtown clubs; we’re talking about the kind of places where the beer is cold, the company is friendly, and the prices are even friendlier. Let’s dive into the best cheap bars London, Ontario has to offer.
The Classics: Dive Bars with Decades of Character
London’s bar scene has a history, and some of the best deals are found in establishments that have been around for a while, serving generations of Londoners. These aren’t fancy cocktail lounges; they’re the heart and soul of our city’s casual drinking culture.
The Brunswick Pub (The Brunny)
Located at 325-327 Richmond Street, The Brunswick Pub, affectionately known as ‘The Brunny,’ is an absolute institution. This place is legendary for its no-frills atmosphere and incredibly affordable drinks. You’ll find a mix of students, regulars, and curious newcomers all drawn by the promise of cheap beer and a relaxed vibe. They’ve got a great patio in the summer, perfect for enjoying a pitcher on a warm evening. The Brunny is the quintessential London dive bar experience – it’s loud, it’s lively, and it’s incredibly easy on the wallet. Expect to find a solid selection of domestic drafts at prices that will make you smile. It’s not about fancy decor; it’s about community and good times.
Palace Theatre (and associated bars)
While the Palace Theatre at 710 Dundas Street is primarily known for its live music venue, the bars within and associated with it often offer some of the best value, especially during off-peak times or specific events. Keep an eye on their schedule; sometimes, you can catch a show and enjoy reasonably priced drinks simultaneously. The energy here is always high, and it’s a great spot to discover local talent.
The Black Shire Pub
If you venture slightly east towards the East London area, you might stumble upon The Black Shire Pub at 111 Belmont Street. This is another spot that’s known for its welcoming atmosphere and good prices, particularly on their beer selection. It’s a bit of a neighbourhood staple, drawing in locals who appreciate a straightforward, unfussy pub experience. They often have daily specials that can make your pint even more affordable.
Student-Friendly Haunts: Where to Go When You’re on a Budget
London is a university city, home to Western University and Fanshawe College. This means there’s a healthy population of students always on the lookout for affordable places to socialize. Many of these spots are clustered around the university areas or in the downtown core.
Richmond Row & Surrounding Areas
While Richmond Row has some trendier, more expensive options, if you look just off the main drag, you can find some deals. Explore the side streets and smaller pubs that cater to a student crowd. These places often have student nights or daily specials on pitchers and select drafts. Ask around – locals and students are usually happy to point you in the right direction for the best current deals.
The Grad Club (Western University Campus)
For those connected to Western University, The Grad Club (located within the University Community Centre) is a classic. It’s not just for graduate students; it’s a laid-back pub with incredibly reasonable prices, especially for those with a student card. They often have live music and a relaxed atmosphere that’s perfect for unwinding after a long day of classes. It’s a true campus insider spot.
Neighborhood Pubs & Local Favourites
Beyond the downtown core and student hubs, London has a network of neighbourhood pubs that offer a more local, community-focused experience, often with budget-friendly prices.
O’Gradys Pub
Located at 2030 North Routledge Park, O’Grady’s is a popular spot in the Hyde Park area. It’s known for its friendly service, casual atmosphere, and consistently good prices on drinks. It’s a great place to catch a game or just hang out with friends without worrying about the bill. They often have trivia nights and other events that add to the fun.
McCabe’s Irish Pub & Grill
While McCabe’s at 1293 Oxford Street West aims for a bit more of an Irish pub vibe, they often have promotions and happy hour deals that make them a solid choice for affordable drinks, especially if you enjoy live music. Their patio is also a nice spot in the summer. It’s a good balance between a comfortable atmosphere and reasonable pricing.
Tips for Finding the Cheapest Drinks in London
- Happy Hour is Your Best Friend: Most bars in London offer a happy hour, typically in the late afternoon or early evening on weekdays. This is the golden hour for discounted drinks. Always check a bar’s social media or website for their specific happy hour times and deals.
- Pitchers are Usually Cheaper: If you’re with a group, a pitcher of domestic beer is almost always more cost-effective than buying individual pints.
- Look for Domestic Drafts: While craft beers are fantastic, they often come with a higher price tag. Sticking to well-known domestic drafts will usually be your cheapest option.
- Check Daily Specials: Many bars have specific days for discounted drinks (e.g., “Wing Wednesday” often comes with cheap beer specials).
- Explore Beyond the Main Strips: While Richmond Row is popular, venture into residential neighbourhoods or slightly off the beaten path. You’ll often find local pubs with better prices and a more authentic vibe.
- Ask the Bartender: Don’t be afraid to ask your bartender for their recommendations on the cheapest drinks or any ongoing specials. They’re the local experts!
- Consider a Brewery Experience (with a caveat): While brewery taprooms are fantastic for craft beer lovers, sometimes they offer introductory deals or happy hours. However, for the absolute cheapest experience, traditional pubs are usually the way to go. For those interested in exploring local brews responsibly, services like Dropt.Beer can help you discover local breweries and their offerings, though focus remains on affordability for this guide.
Beyond the Beer: Affordable Eats to Pair with Your Drink
No cheap bar crawl is complete without some affordable eats. Many of the dive bars mentioned above also serve up classic pub fare like wings, burgers, and fries at reasonable prices. Look out for:
- Wing Nights: A London staple! Almost every pub has a wing night, usually on Wednesdays, offering cheap wings and drink specials.
- Pub Grub Staples: Burgers, fries, and basic sandwiches are usually the most budget-friendly options on any pub menu.
- Food Trucks: Keep an eye out for food trucks, especially during local events or in popular areas like downtown. They often offer delicious and affordable meals.
Responsible Revelry: Enjoying London’s Cheap Bars Safely
Part of enjoying London’s affordable bar scene is doing so responsibly. If you plan on enjoying a few drinks, please plan your transportation in advance.
- Public Transit: London has a public transit system (Riders) that can get you to many of these areas. Check bus routes and schedules.
- Taxis & Ride-Sharing: Uber and local taxi services are readily available.
- Designated Driver: If you’re out with friends, designate a sober driver.
- Walkability: If you’re staying downtown, many of these bars are within walking distance of each other.
London, Ontario, has a heart that beats in its local pubs and dive bars. These are the places where you can have a genuine experience, meet friendly people, and enjoy a good drink without feeling the pinch. So next time you’re looking for a night out on a budget in the Forest City, remember this guide. Cheers!
For more insights into the local scene and news, check out Dropt.Beer’s blog, and if you’re looking to explore more drink options or find specific retailers, their shop section at Dropt.Beer Shop can be a useful resource.
