Happinez by the Glass

The Victorian zeitgeist of my hometown lasted long into the twentieth century and is well characterized by the lengthy presence of the Women's Christian Temperance Union (WCTU), which still has some 5000 members worldwide. Even in the late sixties (1960s) and into the seventies, proper ladies did not enter a public drinking establishment, and the "ladies" who did (through their own special door with an escort!) were suspect. The "Swinging Sixties" and all that followed happened largely in a bubble of denial in terms of the city's self-view.

Harbourside, Saint John, NB

Fortunately, in the last ten to twenty years, the city has changed, leaving behind its brand of sternness and the ladies who did not drink.


How exciting now to see a downtown with many small restaurants and bars, some with small decks and patios where people can enjoy a drink outside. Nightly, there is music on the boardwalk beside the harbour - full with restaurants, bars, and people of all ages.

from the Happinez Bar website

My favourite discovery of this trip was The Happinez Wine Bar on Princess Street. In the lowest level of a late 19th C building, the bar has original exposed brick and stone, even an old bank vault that is now put to a much happier purpose as wine cellar.
The owner is personable and very knowledgable about his wine, of which there is a great selection. It really is "a little bar with lots of wine," as well as lots of atmosphere and service.

Saint John has changed its brand from the dutiful, stern city to one of fun and outdoor entertainment. The carpet stays out much later than it used to.

from the Happinez Bar website

And ladies may enter through the front door!