The Monkey Tree Pub

If you are looking for a spot with authentic northern character, The Monkey Tree Pub is an excellent choice. This vibrant social hub, located in Yellowknife, is rightfully considered one of the most welcoming establishments in the region. Situated in the Range Lake Mall, it attracts both tourists and locals with its laid-back atmosphere and genuine hospitality, making Canada and its northern territories feel even more inviting for travelers.

The Monkey Tree Pub. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The pub's name is steeped in local legend: a majestic tree once stood on this spot, reaching about 18 meters in height and serving as a landmark for the entire area. While the tree itself is a thing of the past, the pub has inherited its role as a key point of attraction on the city map. Today, it is a classic neighbourhood pub where you can escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy a conversation in the company of knowledgeable bartenders.

The venue is famous for its chill vibe and traditional interior, complemented by numerous screens for broadcasting sporting events. While it doesn't have its own kitchen, you can always order great food from their partners, which, combined with a wide selection of drinks, makes the pub an ideal place for an evening wind-down in the northern latitudes.

To book a table or check for availability during major sports broadcasts, you can use the venue's contact information. The pub is located in the Range Lake Mall, making it an easy-to-find landmark.

Visiting this pub is, first and foremost, a chance to immerse yourself in the social scene of the North. You can grab a seat at the massive bar and sample an excellent collection of beers, wines, and original cocktails. If you stop by during happy hour, you can take advantage of special offers that make your visit even more enjoyable.

For sports fans, the pub offers views of key matches on numerous TVs positioned throughout the room. It’s the perfect place to cheer on your favorite team among like-minded people. The atmosphere is always friendly, and the staff and regulars are always ready to strike up a conversation about life in Yellowknife.

Although the pub's own kitchen is currently closed, you won't go hungry: food is delivered here from the famous Coyote’s Bistro. Guests can order pub menu classics or try new seasonal dishes without leaving their cozy table. This setup allows you to combine a relaxed "chill" with a complete gastronomic experience.

Reaching this popular spot is easy, as it is located at 483 Range Lake Rd within the Range Lake Mall. Situated on the outskirts of the city, right next to the Range Lake residential area, it is easily accessible for both locals and visitors to the northern capital.

If you are coming from the city center, a taxi or Uber ride will take only about 10–15 minutes. For those traveling by private or rental car, there is ample free parking right at the mall entrance. In the summer, outdoor enthusiasts can cycle to the pub or even walk if they are staying in the southern part of the city.

Travelers arriving at Yellowknife Airport (YZF) will need about 15–20 minutes to cover the 10–15 km distance to the pub. Public transport in the city is modest, so a taxi remains the most reliable and fastest way to get there at any time of year.

The history of this establishment spans nearly a quarter of a century, during which it has firmly established itself as a cornerstone of the city's social life. The unusual name — The Monkey Tree Pub — was inspired by a tall tree (about 18 meters) that once grew at the highest point of the site and served as a natural beacon for the local community. Although the tree was cut down in the early 1990s, the memory lives on in the name, which has become a true local brand.

Owners Steve Dinham and Jen Vornbrock have long cultivated a "neighborhood pub" atmosphere here. Previously, the pub was closely linked to the Stake restaurant, which opened in 2018; however, the management structure has changed over time. Today, the culinary side is handled by Ed But of Coyote’s Bistro, which has introduced new highlights to the menu while preserving classic pub traditions.

Over the decades, the pub has seen generations change and has hosted many of the city's iconic figures. For instance, until 2017, the legendary manager Harvey Bourgeois was considered the heart and soul of the place. Despite management changes and legal nuances in years past, the establishment remains an island of stability and hospitality in the rugged northern environment.

To fully enjoy the atmosphere of the pub, a typical visit usually lasts between 1 and 2 hours. This is enough time to order drinks from the extensive bar menu, catch an important game, and chat with the friendly locals at the bar.

If you plan on having a full dinner with dishes supplied by the neighboring Coyote’s Bistro, it is recommended to add another 30–60 minutes to your visit. This will allow you to appreciate the northern cuisine in the pub's relaxed and cozy setting without any rush.

The establishment is open daily, offering guests a cozy sanctuary from afternoon until late at night. The pub usually opens its doors from 14:00 to 02:00 on weekdays, and starts welcoming guests earlier on Saturdays and Sundays — from 12:00.

Since the schedule may change depending on holidays or special events, visitors are encouraged to check the current opening hours directly on-site or by phone before visiting.

After a pleasant evening at the pub, it’s worth taking some time to explore the surroundings. The Range Lake area and nearby parts of the city offer guests both modern dining locations and unique historical landmarks that reflect the spirit of the North.

A stroll around the area will allow you to dive deeper into the city's atmosphere, learn about its industrial past, and enjoy the harsh but majestic nature of the Northwest Territories.