Canadian bars cashing in on NHL playoffs

It’s a loud and busy time at Canadian sports bars.

After all seven Canadian NHL teams missed the playoffs in 2016, five are in for 2017. 

In both Saskatoon and Regina, restaurants have already noticed a spike in business.

“It’s packed and the energy is crazy,” Assistant Manager at Sports on Tap in Saskatoon, Kelsey Stabler said, noting that Toronto and Edmonton fans have dominated their tables. 

“Leafs fans are getting the ‘Go Leafs Go’ chants going, it’s really fun.”

Regina’s Lancaster Pub has been packed every night with a rainbow of hockey fans coming in the doors, and the Regina Pats WHL playoff run is adding to that. 

“We are showing Regina Pats games which have been getting lots of buzz,” Co-Owner, Tim Rogers said. “It’s so much busier, which is a huge help.”

For those wanting to get closer to the action, the excitement is ramping up in Alberta. The Edmonton Oilers are making their first playoff appearance in 11 years.

“On game days we’ve been getting lineups out the door,” Supervisor at Rose and Crown Pub, Jacqueline Snider said.

“Oilers fans are the greatest hockey fans in Canada, so I’m not surprised.”

The Red Mile (17th avenue), a popular strip in Calgary Alta., has also seen a spark again with the Flames taking on the Anaheim Ducks in the first round.

“The flames back in the playoffs has been a boost for everybody,” Owner of Trolley 5 restaurant, Ernie Tsu said.

“For the first Flames playoff home game on Monday night, we expect to see 30,000 people on the mile.”