After everything we’ve been through in the last few years, it’s no surprise we’ve started reevaluating what matters most. While bars and restaurants might not top your list of life’s essentials, take a closer look. These spaces are so much more than just spots for grabbing a drink or a quick meal—they’re the beating heart of our communities.
Think about it: bars and restaurants matter. They bring people together. Whether you’re catching up with friends over cocktails, sharing a date-night dinner, or celebrating a big milestone, they’re where we gather to laugh, connect, and unwind. They’re places where life happens.
Why Bars and Restaurants Matter
Sure, they’re great for a night out—but bars and restaurants are also economic powerhouses. They provide jobs for millions of people across the country, from chefs and servers to bartenders and managers. In Canada, the foodservice industry generates over $60 billion every year. That’s huge. It also employs more than 1 million Canadians, making it one of the largest employers in the country—bigger than agriculture, forestry, mining, and even the auto industry.
And it’s not just the people working inside the restaurants. There are another 250,000 Canadians behind the scenes—farmers, suppliers, distributors—whose livelihoods depend on this industry. Every $1 million spent at a restaurant creates about 27 jobs. That means when you’re enjoying a meal out, you’re helping fuel the local economy in a big way.
A Space for Everyone
But the importance of bars and restaurants goes way beyond numbers. These are spaces where life’s moments happen. Whether it’s a birthday dinner, a casual brunch, or just a quick coffee chat, they give us a reason to slow down and share time with the people we care about.
And let’s not forget the food and drink. Canadian bars and restaurants are a reflection of our culture—diverse, creative, and full of flavor. Where else can you find everything from classic poutine to butter chicken, or sip on a locally crafted IPA while savoring a French-inspired dessert? Our culinary scene is as rich as our history, and these establishments are the ones bringing it to life.
For travelers, food is a window into culture—and Canadian bars and restaurants don’t disappoint. In 2019, more than 22 million international visitors came to Canada, many with one goal in mind: to taste their way through our cities and towns. From farm-to-table restaurants to neighborhood pubs, the food and drink scene is a huge draw.
A History of Connection
Bars and restaurants have always been about more than just food. Back in Canada’s early days, taverns and inns weren’t just places to rest—they were where communities came together. They hosted political debates, shared news, and even helped shape the country.
This idea isn’t unique to Canada. Across history, these spaces have brought people together. In ancient Greece, taverns were hot spots for philosophical debates. During the American Revolution, taverns were where activists gathered to strategize. And during Prohibition, speakeasies became more than secret drinking spots—they were cultural touchstones that shaped the cocktail culture we love today.
Resilience Through Change
The last few years have tested the foodservice industry like never before. From lockdowns to staff shortages to rising costs, bars and restaurants have had to pivot—hard. But if there’s one thing this industry is known for, it’s resilience.
When dining rooms shut down, restaurants rolled out takeout and delivery. Many invested in patios and outdoor spaces, creating little oases for us to enjoy a meal safely. Some even went virtual, hosting online cooking classes and cocktail workshops to keep us connected from home. These businesses didn’t just survive—they adapted and evolved.
Looking Ahead
As we move forward, bars and restaurants will keep playing a vital role in our lives. They’ll keep creating jobs, fueling the economy, and—most importantly—bringing people together.
So, the next time you sit down for a meal at your favorite spot, take a moment to appreciate everything that goes into it. The food on your plate, the people behind the scenes, and the connections you’re making at that very table—that’s what makes bars and restaurants so special.
They’re not just places to eat and drink. They’re where we gather, celebrate, and belong: bars and restaurants matter. And as far as I’m concerned, that makes them absolutely essential.
