Page 14 - 06_July-Aug-2025

Sponsored Feature
Night on the Town
Your guide to a
safe and enjoyable
time out
EDMONTON’S VIBRANT bar and restaurant
scene continues to grow. With so many
choices, it can be hard to pick the right place
for your next date night, family dinner or
celebration with friends. But some venues
really raise the bar — and you can discover
them through Best Bar None, a voluntary
accreditation program that serves both the
public and industry. Every bar, restaurant
and venue in the program offers a higher
level of service and safety to patrons.
“Safety and hospitality can be synonymous
with a good night out — the culture is
shifting,” says Eric Baich, director of social
responsibility with Alberta Gaming, Liquor
and Cannabis. “I do think now there's a
much broader understanding of the
DrinkSense principles — that having a good
time doesn't mean that you can't be safe.”
The program brings together industry,
law enforcement and different levels of
government to improve experiences for
patrons and staff, with a holistic approach to
a better nightlife in the city, and the province.
“Hospitality is an important part of any
city or town,” Baich says. “When everyone's
working to make hospitality a positive and
vibrant part of a night out, that’s the common
ground that can bring everybody together.”
Some of the things that set Best Bar None
establishments apart are hard to spot on first
glance. But patrons can feel the difference —
these venues are committed to safety, excellent
service and preventing problems like fights,
drug sales and sexual harassment.
And it’s also about the level of service and
pride that staff take in their establishment.
“When you make an extra
commitment to safety, it really opens
up the doors for hospitality,” says Baich.
Best Bar None establishments vary,
from nightclubs to neighbourhood
haunts, breweries to fine dining
restaurants. Live music, karaoke or
a patio to soak in the sun — there’s
something for everyone.
“It just makes sense to choose
an establishment that raises the bar,”
Baich adds. “With a little proactivity
you can maximize your fun and have a
safer night.”
Baich advises, “Keep in control, set
limits, make good decisions and look out
for each other.”
Choosing a Best Bar None (BBN)
establishment is the first step to a
better social outing.
Visit bestbarnone.ca to find accredited
venues and make the most of your
night out.