Rundle Bar at Fairmont Banff Springs
Stylish hotel bar in the Fairmont Banff Springs offering handcrafted cocktails with stunning mountain views and a hidden speakeasy.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Rundle Bar at Fairmont Banff Springs
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Stylish hotel bar in the Fairmont Banff Springs offering handcrafted cocktails with stunning mountain views and a hidden speakeasy.
"Experience handcrafted cocktails and breathtaking views at the Rundle Bar, a must-visit in Banff."
Book Afternoon Tea Ahead
Reservations for afternoon tea between 11:30am-3pm are recommended; otherwise, it's walk-in.
Don't Miss Rundle Rush Hour
Enjoy beer, wine, and cocktail specials during 'Rundle Rush Hour' from 4pm to 6pm.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
Lounge / Bar
Price
$$$
Phone
+1 403-762-6860
Address
405 Spray Ave, Banff, AB T1L 1J4, Canada
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Breathtaking Mountain & Lake Views
Sip on expertly crafted cocktails with unparalleled vistas of majestic mountains and a serene lake.
Unique Secret Room Experience
Discover a hidden 'speakeasy' behind a bookcase, offering an intimate and exclusive bar experience.
Rocky Mountain Afternoon Tea
Indulge in a delightful afternoon tea service with a tiered tower of pastries and finger sandwiches.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Menu
Most Popular Items
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Afternoon Tea Ahead
Reservations for afternoon tea between 11:30am-3pm are recommended; otherwise, it's walk-in.
Don't Miss Rundle Rush Hour
Enjoy beer, wine, and cocktail specials during 'Rundle Rush Hour' from 4pm to 6pm.
Ask for Bartender's Creations
Inquire about unique, skillful bartender concoctions or their house popcorn.
Window Seats for Best Views
Try to secure a window seat for the most unforgettable mountain and lake views.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Afternoon Tea Ahead
Reservations for afternoon tea between 11:30am-3pm are recommended; otherwise, it's walk-in.
Don't Miss Rundle Rush Hour
Enjoy beer, wine, and cocktail specials during 'Rundle Rush Hour' from 4pm to 6pm.
Ask for Bartender's Creations
Inquire about unique, skillful bartender concoctions or their house popcorn.
Window Seats for Best Views
Try to secure a window seat for the most unforgettable mountain and lake views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Rundle Bar is lauded for its breathtaking mountain views and its unique 'secret room' speakeasy experience. Many praise the attentive service and the delightful afternoon tea, though some find the food slightly overpriced or not exceptional. The cocktails are generally well-received, with particular mention of unique creations and espresso martinis.
"We visited Rundle Bar for Afternoon Tea to celebrate a birthday at the end of May. It was a fantastic experience!
Here are some key takeaways:
- It was a little confusing to find at first, as when you arrive (at the second level), you have to walk into the restaurant, past the bar, to a hostess stand. It’s a hard to see and while there were staff walking right by us, no one guided us through.
- That being said, we are very grateful that staff took the time to read our notes that we were celebrating a birthday. The hostess said Happy Birthday and so did our server. Marco was fantastic as our server, going above and beyond, even offering to take photos of us without being asked. You must ask for him if you visit. Somebody give the man a raise!
- For those wondering, the view alone is worth going for. 100%.
- I will say that service did feel a little bit rushed - it could have been spread out a bit more so we could savour the experience. They definitely bring the food out very quickly!
- While the sandwiches were alright (not exceptional), what you are paying for is the experience. Between the sparkling wine, the adorable tea timer, choosing from a variety of teas, and the bite size desserts, it makes for a one-of-kind experience in a historic hotel in Banff. Highly recommend!"
L Calgary
"This was my second time visiting. Upscale bar venue with signature drinks, extensive variety of other liquor and small food menu. Service is attentive and helpful. Atmosphere quiet, comfortable and a fabulous view of the mountains if you seat yourself near the back. I had a signature drink but it wasn’t very remarkable. I enjoyed the lobster roll and my friend had the hummus dish. She also had the espresso martini- she raved about it. We both really enjoyed our food and it arrived in a timely manner. I was surprised by the portions! Very satisfied!"
Lisa Hall
"Arrived after a long day on tour bus. We are staying at the Fairmont, so not interested in going to far. Not hungry enough for a full dinner, so we settled on the Rumble Bar.
It's a beautiful space, and the views out the windows are breathtaking. The space is well appointed, but not especially for our party of six. The modern looking tables and chairs didn't lend themselves to being pushed together. We made it work.
The drinks and food are overpriced, but you're at a Fairmont. We ordered a couple drinks and sandwiches. I got the Ember Cocktail, and my spouse ordered a Amber Ale. Good choices.
We tried a Lobster Roll and Pork Belly Bowl.
While we were waiting they brought us some nuts and popcorn. Which was delicious and took the edge off the hunger. Lucky for us, because it took a bit to server our food. The Lobster Roll was okay, but not up to Fairmont standards. It was more of a Maine style, more like lobster salad. And there was more roll than lobster. The Pork Belly very good, warm flavorful, and a good portion.
There are plenty of other great places to dine. We won't be coming back to this one."
Scott W
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Reservations are required for afternoon tea between 11:30 am and 3 pm. Outside of these hours, it is walk-in only.
The Rundle Bar features a hidden speakeasy called the Sidecar Room, accessed behind a bookcase, offering an exclusive experience.
Yes, Rundle Rush Hour runs daily from 4 pm to 6 pm, featuring specials on beer, wine, and cocktails.
Yes, Rundle Bar can accommodate plant-based diets with a special vegan afternoon tea tower upon request.
The menu includes generously sized small plates, sandwiches, and an afternoon tea service. Some reviews suggest it can be pricey.
The bar offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and lake, making it a prime spot for scenic dining.
The venue is described as having live music, enhancing the stylish bar atmosphere.
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Best Restaurants in Banff, Canada Ski Destination
Fairmont Banff Springs opened in 1888, not long after the town was founded in 1885. As of 2019, however, the hotel is fresh off a $5 million renovation, and its various restaurants have been modernized as well. Among them is Rundle Bar, a sleek spot overlooking Rundle Mountain and offering afternoon tea, cocktails, or light lunch.
The Best Bars In Banff, Alberta
Inside the famous Fairmont Banff Springs, a luxury hotel that looks like a castle, is Rundle Bar. You need reservations to wander into the bar between 11:30am and 3pm for afternoon tea; otherwise, it’s walk-in only. Happy hour is called Rundle Rush Hour, and it runs daily from 4pm to 6pm, with beer, wine and cocktail specials.
Food & Drinks in Banff
Balkan Restaurant | The Maple Leaf | The Keg Steakhouse + Bar - Banff Downtown | 1888 Chop House | Silver Dragon Restaurant | Chuck's Steakhouse | Park Distillery Restaurant + Bar | Rundle Bar | Maclab Bistro | El Toro Restaurant | Tooloulous | Ramsay Lounge | Bamboo garden | The Keg Steakhouse + Bar - Banff Caribou | Banff Ave Brewing Co | Indian Curry House | The Bison Restaurant | Three Ravens Restaurant & Wine Bar | Block Kitchen and Bar | Grizzly House Restaurant | Seoul Country Korean Restaurant | Meatball Pizza and Pasta | Pump and Tap Tavern | St James's Gate Olde Irish Pub | Wild Flour- Banff's Artisan Bakery Cafe | Skokis | Sushi Bistro | Carlito's Pizzaria | Chaya Restaurant | The Bear Street Tavern
Our Favourite Banff, Alberta Restaurants
With one of the best restaurant views in all of Banff, this historic bar located in the heart of Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel (AKA the castle) is the perfect spot for a leisurely sip after a long day of hiking. Aptly named after the nearby Mount Rundle, the award-winning bar looks out onto Banff’s stunning mountainscape and serves up signature cocktails, including their Mountain Series, which pays homage to the different Fairmont locations across the Canadian Rockies. The short but well-curated menu includes everything you could need while sipping on a nice cocktail.
Where to eat plant-based in Banff and Lake Louise (and what to order)
High Tea in “the Castle” (aka the Fairmont Banff Springs) is a quintessential Banff experience and a nod to the elegance and refinement of travel that first transported tourists by train car. Reserve your table in the Rundle Bar solarium for this formal tea service and enjoy a three-tiered tower of fresh french pastries and finger-sized sandwiches. If you prefer to eat plant-based, simply ask your server for the vegan option and they will be happy to make a special tower that accommodates a plant-based diet.
10 Great Banff Patios to Check Out This Summer
If you’re staying at the Fairmont Banff Springs (lucky you), your visit isn’t complete without a stop at Rundle Bar’s mountainside patio. With views of the cocktail bar’s namesake Mount Rundle on one side and the equally beautiful hotel on the other, this patio offers a relaxed vibe while still maintaining that Banff Springs magic. Be sure to check out the special patio cocktail menu of fun, tropical summer drinks like margaritas and mojitos and the selection of shareable bar snacks and sandwiches.
Awarded 'Best Patio' By Canada's 100 Best
Situated in the heart of the renowned Castle in the Rockies, Rundle Bar has long been celebrated for its sophisticated ambiance, meticulously crafted cocktails, and unparalleled views of the majestic Canadian Rockies. An inaugural nod by Canada’s 100 Best Bars underscores the team’s commitment to being the top terrace in town and striving for excellence and innovation in the luxury resort food & drink landscape.
Your Guide To Amazing Cocktails in Banff National Park
The Rundle Bar at the Fairmont Banff Springs boasts one of the best views in Banff overlooking the Bow River Valley. Take a seat window-side to immerse yourself in the views while enjoying their signature Moscow Mule. The classic cocktail is made with Grey Goose Vodka, lime juice, simple syrup, soda water, and most notably their house-made ginger puree, and is served with a slice of lime and candied ginger.
2022 Review of Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel
Rundle Bar has the best view of Rundle Mountain with a beautiful outdoor patio view and a secret doorway through a bookcase, designed by female-led FRANK architecture in Calgary. The new menu features dishes like Brandt Lake Beef Carpaccio, cold smoked arctic char, and head chef Atticus’ warm Rundle OGC (Oooey, Gooey, Cookie). We had lunch, dinner, and cocktails here several times during our stay!
Banff in May: The Best Time to Visit the Canadian Rockies
Located inside the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, The Rundle Bar offers a classic après-ski experience (minus actual skiing). The bar boasts an incredible selection of upscale drinks, from signature cocktails to local craft beers, and the views are equally impressive. If you’re not in the mood for alcohol, their mocktails are equally delicious.
Best Lunch Places In Banff
Rundle Bar is perfect for marking an anniversary or other milestone, thanks to its homey atmosphere and spectacular decor. But it's not just the ambiance that draws people in – Rundle Bar also serves up some seriously delicious dishes. For lunch, be sure to try one of their perfectly cooked bagel sandwiches or savory scones.
Want To See Banff National Park At Its Best? Try Visiting In Winter
Book the Banff high tea at Rundle Bar at the Fairmont Banff Springs, where you can sip champagne and tea brewed from fine loose leaves and nibble on dainty finger sandwiches and Victorian scones near windows with awe-inducing views.
Taste the Rainbow with Banff Pride
The Fairmont Banff Spring’s Rundle Bar is bringing not one, but two delicious cocktails to the party for Pride!. Try the Bubble Gum Cheesecake with blue curacao, cotton candy, and vanilla crème. Looking to change it up?
Pet Friendly Banff
All five patios at the Fairmont Banff Springs are dog-friendly, including STOCK food & drink, the Rundle Bar, and extra-spacious Waldhaus Pub & Biergarten.
Rundle Bar in Banff named as the best patio in Canada
Rundle Bar, which is located in the “Castle in the Rockies” Fairmont Banff Springs, has received the “Best Patio Award 2024” by Canada’s 100 Best.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit