This year, New York City will be lighting up the skyline in red and white—the colors of the Canadian flag—in a heartfelt gesture of solidarity and friendship with our neighbors to the north. It’s all part of the city’s celebration of Canada Day, which marks the anniversary of Canadian Confederation on July 1, 1867. The holiday is a national moment of pride, often considered Canada’s counterpart to the Fourth of July, and is celebrated with parades, concerts, and flag displays that honor the country’s rich history, values, and multicultural heritage.
To toast 158 years of Canadian unity, history, and friendship, several beloved Canadian hotspots right here in NYC are inviting locals and visitors alike to join the festivities. Whether you're Canadian or simply a fan of great food and drink, these three standout venues are the perfect places to celebrate:
BarChef (21 W 35th St)
A staple of the Toronto cocktail scene since 2008, BarChef just opened its first U.S. location in Midtown—and it's already making waves. Known for pioneering one of the world’s most progressive, culinary-driven cocktail programs, BarChef elevates mixology to a multi-sensory art form. Expect drinks with pastry-inspired ingredients, liquid nitrogen, dramatic tableside aromatics, and inventive presentations like cryo-poached coconut and lime espuma. The NYC outpost offers an unforgettable experience for those looking to celebrate Canada Day with sophistication and flair.
Reyna (11 E. 13th St)
Meaning "queen" in Spanish, Reyna first opened in Toronto in 2016 and has since become a favorite for Mediterranean small plates and craft cocktails. The NYC location in Union Square brings the same royal treatment, inviting guests on a flavorful journey across the Mediterranean. With its stylish ambiance and vibrant menu, Reyna is a must-visit for anyone looking to toast to Canada Day over shared plates and creative cocktails in a warm, convivial setting.
Reyna Interior Image courtesy of Theo Samuels
Estiatorio Milos (125 W 55th St)
Though Greek at heart, Estiatorio Milos has deep Canadian roots—its original flagship opened in Montreal. When Chef Costas Spiliadis brought the concept to NYC in 1997, he aimed to share the purity and simplicity of Greek seafood with New Yorkers. Today, Milos is renowned for its ultra-fresh Mediterranean fish, refined preparations, and elegant atmosphere. The connection to Canada, paired with its reputation for excellence, makes it a fitting and elevated destination for Canada Day dining.
Whether you're craving a cutting-edge cocktail, tapas with flair, or pristine seafood with a Montreal pedigree, these Canadian-founded spots offer the perfect way to celebrate Canada Day in NYC—one toast, bite, and memory at a time.