When the lifts finish spinning for the day, the après-ski scene in Nelson gets going. From craft breweries to crafted cocktails, and brand new restaurants to tried and true local faves, you’ll quickly discover why Nelson is one of the best ski towns in North America.  

We present to you a rundown of local après-ski specials, plus a few other spots you don’t want to miss.

2019/2020 Apres Ski Specials

Broken Hill: The newest gastropub in town features 24 taps of curated craft beers from across the province. The hip, industrial-meets-modern open concept space is an inviting space to fill your boots post ski. Multiple bar areas, long tables and high tops make this a lively and sociable hotspot. 

Happy hour: 3pm-5pm
$1 off pints
$3 off poutine (tater tots or fries!) 
$12 pitchers of broken hill craft lager

Cantina Del Centro: Come summer this Mexican inspired restaurant has a sprawling patio on Baker Street, but in the winter, this popular hangout really heats up. Good vibes and great food in a colourful setting.

Happy Hour: 3pm-5pm
$10 Honey-Chipotle Chicken Wings
$7 Yam Fries
$10 Après Le Casa Margarita

Finley’s: Nelson’s only Irish pub serves up over a dozen beers and an extensive menu. Challenge a friend to a game of pool, watch sports on the big screens, or enjoy the elevated views of Kootenay Lake as the days slowly get a little longer. Wednesday Wing Nights are a local’s fave, and live music is often featured.

Happy Hour: 3:30pm-5:30pm
$4 16oz pints of Pilsner or Finley’s Lager
$4 House Wine
$5 Fish Tacos
$5 Olives
$5 Small Poutine

Marzano: The word is out; this recent addition to Baker Street is serving up dynamite ‘za in a modern Italian setting. Get there before the crowds and enjoy their afternoon specials, including great local beers and creative takes on Italian classics. 

Happy Hour: 2pm-5pm
$5 Local Draft
$9 Italian classics
$13 Margherita Pizza

Mike's Place Pub: Nelson’s classic pub has it all. Multiple levels and entertainment (pool tables, darts, foosball, and big screens) and a wide ranging menu with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients. Oh, and a stellar roster of NBC beers complemented by top notch rotating BC craft ales. 

Happy hour: 3pm-6pm
Half price selected appies
$1 off drinks

Rel-ish Bistro: This cozy restaurant on historic Baker Street is bustling with energy and fresh flavours. Watch your meal being prepared in the open kitchen or enjoy the views of Nelson’s heritage buildings from the street front windows.

Happy Hour: 3pm-5pm
Monthly specials, including Nachos and two beers for $19.99 or Nachos and Casear for $17.99

Sage Tapas & Wine Bar: Sage Tapas and Wine Bar; considered Nelson’s best kept secret. Sage is warm and inviting, providing an intimate setting where friends meet after a day of skiing over amazing food and a bottle of local BC wine or a cocktail.

Happy Hour: 4pm-6pm
Discounts on selected drinks & appies

Sprout: This bright, modern plant based eatery is tucked away on Ward Street. Discover new healthy dishes from their nicely curated menu. Who knew veggies could be so good?!

Happy Hour: 3pm-5pm
$5 draft
$5 cauliflower wings

Vault: Watch the game or savour the waterfront views? The choice is yours at Nelson’s newest sports bar in the Prestige Lakeside Resort. Take your pick of local or import beers on tap, and your favourite game on the big screen TVs.

Happy Hour: 4pm-6pm
$5 Drinks
25% Off Appies  

Backroads Brewing Co: This lively brewpub in the heart of Nelson has been packed since it opened in 2017. Their First Descent Northwest IPA is a hop heads delight, and a rotating series of beers keeps things fresh. Small snacks available, but you’re welcome to bring in your own eats.  

Nelson Brewing Company: This venerable local institution has been brewing legendary organic ales for years, but their tap room is still shiny new. Sample their exclusive releases on site and enjoy freshly baked goods from the Knotty Baker and cured meats from Chez Totoche. Tasting Room open from 2pm-8pm, Monday-Saturday. 

Torchlight Brewing Co.: The passionate brewing team is always serving up creative beers at this friendly brewpub near the water. The modern warehouse atmosphere features board and arcade games complemented by a rotating display of art. Great pub food, including multiple pies, dips, and mac & cheese varieties.  

Coal Oil Johnny’s Pub: No après-ski list is complete without a shout out to the only pub on the hill at Whitewater. Warm, welcoming and always lively, this is exactly what après-ski is all about. Grab a locally brewed pint, anything off the menu (it’s all awesome) and unwind after a day on the slopes.