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Darling Bar Fuses Cocktails, Coffee, and Climbing

Darling Bar and VA Cafe are breathing new life into the iconic space at 171 McDermot Ave.

“The whole idea is to create a welcoming hub for people,” says Dylan Pereira, owner and mastermind behind Darling Bar and VA Cafe, a new business in the Exchange District that’s part cafe, part climbing gym, and part cocktail bar. Darling Bar and VA Cafe take over the space which formerly housed Forth Cafe + Bar– and put it to incredibly versatile use.  

Dylan explains the venture as “three connected businesses, each with their own soul”.  The cafe and bouldering wall are on the main floor with Darling Bar downstairs and on the newly opened rooftop patio. These businesses were the brainchild of wanting to expand Vertical Adventures, the climbing gym on Paramount Road that he owns and manages.

Dylan, a Winnipeg native and former airplane mechanic, has always appreciated quality cocktails and coffee.  He turned to rock climbing as an outlet for wellness and soon fell in love with the sport. What began as a personal endeavour quickly turned into his passion, and later, his business.

He was seeking a central location for the next iteration of Vertical Adventures and was inspired by the Exchange District, citing moments like Nuit Blanche which makes the city come alive.  With Darling Bar he hopes to bolster that pulse, drawing in people from the climbing, coffee, and cocktail communities.

Creating a space for people to connect, unwind, and enjoy an elevated experience is at the heart of Darling Bar’s vision. Inspired by the memory of Dylan’s late brother, Gabriel, the spirit of the bar is welcoming and inclusive.  Handcrafted cocktails are the main focus but they have options to suit every taste, including mocktails, wine, or a classic pilsner.

Creating a space for people to connect, unwind, and enjoy an elevated experience is at the heart of Darling Bar’s vision. Inspired by the memory of Dylan’s late brother, Gabriel, the spirit of the bar is welcoming and inclusive.  Handcrafted cocktails are the main focus but they have options to suit every taste, including mocktails, wine, or a classic pilsner.

“The name ‘Darling’ is a term of endearment, and it’s important with the menu to bring that to life” mentions Dylan when discussing their food and beverage curation. To Dylan the menu is more than a list of beverages- “It’s a love note to our customers”.  Each cocktail holds a memory and a story, and the whole team contributes to their creation. Favourites like “The Honey Bear,” inspired by artist Father John Misty, and “My Old Flame,” reminiscent of past relationships, grace the menu. 

The current food menu is summer-inspired and curated by Chef Chris Boyko and Sous Chef Joshua Harris who bring years of hospitality expertise to the business. Ahi tuna, bao buns, brie dip, and charcuterie are some of the current offerings which will evolve throughout the year. Portuguese tarts, a nod to Dylan’s heritage, are sourced from a local maker and available at the cafe.

There’s more to come with Darling Bar and VA Cafe as they continue to grow.  Soon climbing enthusiasts will have their own haven with a U-shaped bouldering wall set to open in the cafe later this year.  Up next are various events and pop-ups, ranging from artist showcases to live music. They keep the event lineup diverse, booking acts like punk shows, electronic music, and the recent Real Love show for First Fridays.  They’re also seeking visual artists to help decorate the walls and makers to display their products and fill the café shelves.

Whether you’re seeking a cozy coffee shop to savour a moment of peace and climbing, a lively bar to enjoy music and dancing, or a cocktail on a rooftop patio, Darling Bar has something for everyone. Drop by and explore the multifaceted Darling Bar + VA Café at 171 McDermot Ave in the Exchange District.

For events and other updates check out @darlingbarwinnipeg on Instagram.

Photos by Sierra Pries.