It looks like “dry summer” doesn’t have to come true. With the recent LCBO strike across Ontario, locations remain closed until the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU) representing the LCBO workers and the government reach an agreement. That’s why we’ve rounded up other local wineries, breweries and stores where alcohol and spirits are available. Pool parties, summer BBQs, backyard hangs and cottage days don’t have to be empty-handed. Here are some places to buy alcohol in Toronto and the GTA, other than the LCBO.
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What is the LCBO strike?
The Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU) representing LCBO workers are on strike after talks with the Ontario government over the expansion of alcohol sales to private businesses broke down. Almost 10,000 LCBO workers are on strike, marking a mass strike history to occur in around 97 years of the LCBO.
How many LCBO stores are closed?
There are around 669 LCBO locations closed across Ontario.
When do LCBO stores open?
LCBO locations could be closed for two weeks. If an agreement is reached within the 14-day closure period, the stores will reopen and resume normal operations as soon as possible. However, if an agreement has not been reached by July 19, the LCBO will open 32 stores across Ontario but with limited hours on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.
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Where can you buy alcohol in Toronto and the GTA during the LCBO strike?
Here are some of the local breweries, distilleries and wineries where you can buy alcohol and spirits in Toronto and the GTA.
Amsterdam Brewing Company
Address: 245 Queens Quay West, Toronto, ON
What they sell: Beer
The city’s largest waterfront craft brewery, restaurant and retail store offers a huge selection of local beer and IPA. If you’re looking for a wide variety, this place is for you.
Great Lakes Brewery
Address: 11 Lower Jarvis St. Units 5-8, Toronto, ON
What they sell: Beer
Great Lakes Brewery has endless beer. Literally! The independent craft brewery has been around for 35 years, making it the oldest independent craft brewery in Canada.
Northern Maverick Brewing Company
Address: 115 Bathurst St., Toronto, ON
What they sell: Beer
This space is 11,000 square feet and the facility features a 10-hectolitre brewhouse with eight 20-HL fermenters, a 400-seat restaurant, a bar and a retail store offering their latest brews.
Something in the Water Brewing Company
Address: 151 E Liberty St., Toronto, ON
What they sell: Beer
This brewing company has over 15 different beverages — including three that can be found at LCBO. The best part? 5 cents from every can purchased supports clean water across Canada.
Bellwoods Brewery
Address: 124 Ossington Ave., Toronto, ON
What they sell: Beer
An Ossignton favourite, Bellwoods Brewery has an ever-changing variety of bottles and cans of different flavours, crisp lagers, sparkling waters and more.
The Beer Store
Address: Various locations across the GTA
What they sell: Beer
Established in 1927, The Beer Store has over 440 retail stores and is dedicated to bringing over 1000 beers to choose from all over the world.
Magnotta Winery Estates
Address: Various locations across the GTA
What they sell: Cider, wine
From over 180 acres of family-owned and operated vineyards in the heart of Niagara, Magnotta Winery has award-winning 100 per cent Ontario vintages that you need for your summer hangouts.
Wine Rack
Address: Various locations across the GTA
What they sell: Cider, wine
Whether you’re looking for something bold, dry or refreshing, Wine Rack has it all. Many stores across the GTA have all your wine needs.
The Wine Shop
Address: Various locations across the GTA
What they sell: Cider, wine
Order online or visit a store near you to get one of The Wine Shop’s hundreds of different wines. With over 100 wine and liquor store locations opened, there is definitely The Wine Shop near you.
Grape Witches
Address: 1247 Dundas St. W, Toronto, ON
What they sell: Cider, wine
Grape Witches is a Toronto wine agency classic. The natural wine agency represents over 30 local and favourite wineries directly. Aside from a patio, event space and store, they have a Wine Club that offers an expertly curated monthly pack.
Mill Street Brewery
Address: 21 Tank House Lane, Toronto, ON
What they sell: Spirits, beer
If you’ve frequented the Distillery District, then you’ve come across Mill Street Brewery. The brewery and pub are committed to using organic grains that are not only good for you but for the environment too!
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Where can you buy alcohol in Ontario?
Aside from local stores and breweries, alcohol is available for purchase at licensed grocery or big-box grocery stores, LCBO Convenience Outlets and other retailers that currently sell alcohol across Ontario. Additionally, purchasing alcohol from the LCBO is still available for online delivery.