Setting the Bar: The Best Airport Bars at ONT

Here’s where to grab a drink at ONT, with relaxed lounges, local brews and bar recommendations for every type of traveler.

Who else considers vacation officially underway as soon as they clear security? And once Airport Rules kick in, cocktails are always on the table — whether you’re waiting for a 9 p.m. or a 9 a.m. takeoff. 

Every great bar requires a selection of high-quality drinks, friendly service and some ambiance. A great airport bar requires all of that plus quick service and close proximity to your gate, so there’s no stress going from barstool to boarding.

If you booked your flight through Ontario International Airport, you’re in luck. The stress-free vibe you enjoy throughout your ONT journey is also on the menu at a range of airport bars and lounges waiting to welcome you in both terminals.

While an airport isn’t exactly the place you’d expect to find a bar “where everybody knows your name,” ONT’s commitment to being YOUR airport means that’s exactly what happens at spots like Urban Crave in Terminal 4.

“My favorite thing about working at ONT is my guests,” said Felicia Clark, an Urban Crave bartender whose customers love her so much they introduce her to visiting family members.

“I have built so many great bonds,” Felicia said. “I love seeing them and they love seeing me whenever they come through."

More into variety than loyalty? ONT’s compact, easy-to-navigate layout means travelers with a bit of time to spare can opt to bar hop while waiting for flights!

A quick note: Drinking alcohol can dehydrate you and disrupt sleep patterns, which both can make jet lag worse. So be sure to regulate yourself and drink plenty of water along with those libations. 

Read on for the inside scoop on where to drink at ONT, whether you’re craving a So Cal twist on the bloody Mary with breakfast, a pre-flight beer flight at lunch or an elevated nightcap in a relaxed lounge.

Terminal 2: Laid-Back Drinks & Local Brews

Flying through Terminal 2? Or just stopping by with an ONT+ Visitor Pass? Here’s a rundown on three great bars to check out.

Brewery X at ONT

• Vibe: Sports bar-style brewery with Instagrammable surroundings by Gate 207
• Try: Come Fly With Me, ONT’s custom beer collaboration with Brewery X! The local brewery has a large selection of other beers on tap, plus wine and seltzer cocktails.  
• Bonus: Massive screens to watch live games, plus great food pairings, too!
• Yelpers Say: “The vibe is immaculate, the bartender is friendly and the drinks come out quick.”

Pizza Vino

• Vibe: Quick and casual spot by Gate 205 for when you’re on a tighter schedule
• Try: Sparkling pinot or a good selection of popular beers paired with a great pizza
• Bonus: There's even a breakfast pizza! And the paninis are great, too.
• Yelpers Say: “I think this will be a must stop every time I'm at the airport moving forward!”

Tap & Pour  

• Vibe: Gastropub meets airport, with a full bar and plenty of seating by Gate 204
• Try: A Chilies & Peppers Bloody Mary if you're feeling spicy, a pineapple mint mimosa if you need to chill or any of their other fun specialty cocktails if you want to mix it up!
• Bonus: They sell a good variety of grab-and-go items, too!
• Yelpers Say: “Friendly service and freshly made food.” 

Terminal 4: Where to Sip & Recharge

When your vacation starts in Terminal 4, here are three diverse options for where to toast your pending adventure.

Liquid Provisions

• Vibe: Casual, low-key corner bar by Gate 409
• Try: A classic like the Buffalo Trace Old Fashioned or a mule in a copper mug pair well with the vibe here, where they have a full bar and munchies to go.
• Bonus: Our famous Skittles Remix vending machine is just outside!
• Customers Say: “When you want to get your vacation started in T4, Liquid Provisions is a comfortable, cozy spot.” — Connie Royal, Customer Engagement Specialist and frequent flyer at ONT

Mi Casa Cantina

• Vibe: Colorful Mexican flair in a casual spot by Gate 405
• Try: Pair a Salt and Lime Lager with some tacos or a Modelo with a burrito. The focus is on the food here, but there’s a solid beer selection, too.
• Bonus: There’s a gorgeous mural on the wall that makes for a great photo spot!
• Yelpers Say: “I will definitely come back here again.”

Urban Crave

• Vibe: Modern, spacious and energetic corner spot by Gate 405
• Try: The Habañero Chipotle Mary goes great with a breakfast sandwich. Or just saddle up to the bar and make yourself a regular!
• Bonus: You can say hi (and bye) to Felicia!
• Customers Say: “Always our stop at the airport when we want to get away! Food is consistent, drinks are always flowing and you're always bound to find someone to talk to."

Lounge Experiences Available  

Want a bit more luxury and peace with your drinks? Both terminals at ONT are home to an Aspire Lounge!

• How to get in: A day pass is under $50 for adults, while some credit cards and airlines cover admission. Click on the lounge for your terminal here to book your pass or learn more!
• How it works: Once you’re in, all drinks and food are free! That includes a full bar with spirits, wine and beer. Visit the bar, then hit the buffet as much as you’d like.
• Bonus: You’ll find perks like plush seating, super fast Wi-Fi and great views of the airfield.

Your Pre-Flight Personality Match

Still not sure where to go? Pick the right bar based on your mood and needs!

• Tight layover? Grab a quick drink at Pizza Vino in T2, near Gate 205.
• Traveling solo? Urban Crave in T4 by Gate 405 has friendly servers and great energy.
• Need to work? Aspire Lounges in T2 and T4 offer cocktails plus workstations.
• Sports fan? Hit Brewery X at ONT in T2 by Gate 207 for all the action.
• Couple getaway? Visit Liquid Provisions in T4 by Gate 409 for a toast.

So Raise Your Glass at ONT

Explorers don’t have to settle for mediocre airport drinks anymore. Whether you’re spending time in T2 or T4, there are multiple options to suit every thirsty traveler at ONT.

So bookmark this guide for your next trip, then be sure to share your top ONT bars and drink selections with future travel companions!