The Drinking Culture in Asessippi
Asessippi's après-ski culture emerged from Manitoba's proud prairie skiing tradition, which dates back to the resort's founding in the 1960s. Unlike the European heavy-drinking tradition or the massive party scenes of larger Canadian resorts, Asessippi has cultivated a uniquely friendly, unpretentious drinking culture centered on community and celebration after a day on the slopes. The resort's relatively small size means you're just as likely to run into the same locals at the bar as fellow tourists, creating an approachable atmosphere where conversations flow easily between groups. What makes Asessippi stand out is its 'cold prairie, warm hearts' vibe – after braving -20°C temperatures on the slopes, the warmth of the lodge bars feels genuinely welcoming. The crowd skews toward families and local skiing enthusiasts rather than the party-hard college crowd found at bigger resorts. Late January through February brings the busiest nightlife, especially during the Manitoba Winter Festival, while December offers a quieter, more intimate après-ski experience perfect for those seeking relaxed vibes.
Complete Bar Guide
Located right at the base of the main lift, The Groomer Lounge is the quintessential on-slope après spot. The rustic wooden interior features massive windows overlooking the bunny hill, making it perfect for watching the last skiers descend as you warm up. The crowd is a mix of families wrapping up their day and locals who've been skiing since opening. The service is quick, and the staff remembers regulars' orders. A fireplace in the center creates an inviting focal point, and there's usually live acoustic music on weekend afternoons.
Signature
Hot toddy with local honey ($8) and the 'Prairie Sunrise' - a Canadian whisky and maple syrup cocktail ($12)
Best Time
3pm-5pm daily, especially Fridays for the famous $6 pint special
Insider Tip
Grab a table near the fireplace before 4pm - it fills up fast and is the warmest spot in the lodge. Ask bartender Mike for the 'secret' shot of peppermint schnapps he only pours for regulars.
TheAspen Taproom serves as the heart of Asessippi's evening social scene. With 20 craft beers on tap including several Manitoba microbrews, it's a must-visit for beer enthusiasts. The wood-paneled walls are adorned with vintage ski photos and memorabilia from the resort's early days. The crowd evolves throughout the evening - families and casual drinkers early, then transitioning to a livelier 25+ crowd as night progresses. The pub food is surprisingly excellent, with the poutine receiving universal acclaim.
Signature
Flight of 4 Manitoba craft beers ($18) and the Asessippi Caesar made with local vodka ($14)
Best Time
5pm-8pm for relaxed dinner vibes, 9pm+ for the younger crowd
Insider Tip
Tuesday is trivia night and draws a massive crowd - arrive by 7pm to secure a table. The kitchen stays open until 10pm, making it perfect for a late dinner.
Asessippi's only true late-night venue, The Snowball delivers when you're looking to keep the party going past midnight. The dance floor gets crowded on Saturday nights, especially during special event weekends. The DJ plays a mix of current hits and classic party anthems. While smaller than clubs you'd find in Banff or Whistler, it draws a dedicated local following. The cover charge is minimal ($10), and the drinks are reasonably priced for a club setting.
Signature
Jägerbombs ($6), Long Island Iced Tea ($12), and the 'Whiteout' - a creamy coconut rum drink
Best Time
10pm-2am on Saturdays, especially during January/February peak season
Insider Tip
The cover charge is waived before 11pm if you mention you're 'coming from the hill.' Check their Facebook page for themed nights - '80s Ski Party' is legendary.
A hidden gem located in the upper level of the resort's main lodge, The Vintner's Den offers a sophisticated alternative to the typical ski resort bar. The intimate space features exposed wooden beams, soft lighting, and an impressive selection of Canadian wines, particularly Ontario and BC vintages. It's perfect for couples or those seeking a more refined evening. The cheese and charcuterie plate pairs excellently with their wine flights. Service is attentive without being stuffy.
Signature
Wine flights ($15-25), Pinot Noir from Niagara ($12/glass), and the 'Alpine Sparkler' - Prosecco with elderflower liqueur
Best Time
6pm-9pm for a romantic dinner date or quiet evening with friends
Insider Tip
Ask for the 'Winemaker's Selection' - it's a secret daily feature not on the menu that showcases something unique. Reserve a table for Valentine's Day months in advance.
Just a short walk from the main resort parking lot, Kelly's Cabin feels like stepping into a remote hunting lodge - in the best way possible. The campfire-style seating and dim lighting create an instant atmosphere of camaraderie. This is where the locals go to escape the tourist-heavy spots. The drinks are generous, and the conversation flows freely. It's small, cozy, and sometimes feels like a best-kept secret that somehow everyone knows about.
Signature
Irish coffee ($9), cheap domestic pitchers ($18), and shots of premium Canadian whisky ($7)
Best Time
Any time after 8pm - this is a locals' hangout, not a tourist spot
Insider Tip
If you're nice to the owner, she'll sometimes let you behind the bar to play your own music on the jukebox. Bring cash - they don't always take cards.
Perched at the top of the intermediate run, Sunrise Slopeside Café offers the unique experience of après-ski at elevation without needing to hike back down. The outdoor patio (when weather permits) provides stunning views of the Manitoba sunset over the prairie. Inside, it's cozy and rustic with a wood-burning stove. The hot beverages are exceptional, and they offer non-alcoholic options that are actually worth trying.
Signature
Hot apple cider with cinnamon ($5), specialty hot chocolates ($6), and the 'Summit Shot' - coffee with a shot of Kahlua
Best Time
2pm-4pm on sunny days for the best patio experience
Insider Tip
On fresh powder days, the line can be 30+ minutes long. Go on groomed days instead. The hot chocolate with Bailey's is technically 'off-menu' but they'll make it if you ask nicely.
Prices & Value
Asessippi offers excellent value compared to larger Canadian ski resorts, with prices that won't wreck your budget. Being in rural Manitoba means lower overhead than mountain resorts in BC or Alberta, and these savings pass directly to consumers.
Beer
Domestic pints $6-7, craft beer $8-10, imported $9-12
Wine
Glass $9-14, bottle $35-60
Cocktail
Standard cocktails $12-15, premium $15-18
How it compares: Prices run about 20-30% cheaper than comparable resorts in Alberta (Banff, Lake Louise) and roughly 40% less than Whistler. A night out in Asessippi that would cost $150 in Whistler might set you back $80-100 here.
Where locals drink: Locals primarily drink at Kelly's Cabin and The Aspen Taproom for value. Tourist areas (Mountain bars) charge premium prices. The best strategy is to ski mid-day, then head to village bars in the evening where prices drop significantly after 8pm.
Perfect Après Itineraries
🎉 The Classic Route
Start at The Groomer Lounge at 3pm for post-ski drinks and people-watching. Head to The Aspen Taproom around 5:30pm for dinner and craft beers. Move to The Snowball around 10pm for dancing. End at Kelly's Cabin around midnight for nightcap drinks with locals.
💰 Budget-Friendly
Ski until 3:30pm, grab a cheap drink at Sunrise Slopeside Café. Walk to Kelly's Cabin for evening drinks (most affordable). Skip the club - the $6 pitchers at Kelly's are the best value in town. Total cost: approximately $40-50 for the evening.
✨ Upscale Evening
Begin with sunset drinks at Sunrise Slopeside Café (if open) or The Vintner's Den for wine. Have dinner at The Aspen Taproom (order the steak). Return to The Vintner's Den for after-dinner drinks. Skip the club entirely - the wine bar offers much better conversation and atmosphere.
