Kristen Voisey has never worked behind a bar—her background is in hospitality and tourism—but you would’t know that wandering around BYOB Cocktail Emporium. True to its “Build Your Own Bar” and “Be Your Own Bartender” ethos, both locations of the Toronto store stock a staggering number of syrups, bitters (more than 100 flavors from small-batch enterprises like Dashfire, The Bitter Housewife, and Bar40), and barware, including top-of-the-line shakers, strainers, and Yarai mixing glasses from Japan. Los Angelenos may spy strands of Barkeeper‘s Silver Lake DNA throughout the store, but Voisey molds that original inspiration in her own image and with an even greater selection of tiki mugs, atomic era swizzle sticks, and flamboyant paper garnishes. For beer nerds, there are homebrew starter kits from Brooklyn Brew Shop. On your way out, stop by Organic Boutique next door; the proprietor sells a complementary selection of boozy cherries and flavored tonics.

972 Queen St. W., Toronto, ON, Canada; 647-727-3600.
20 Kensington Ave., Toronto, ON, Canada; 647-727-3600.