The Sticks is a BIPOC and LGBTQ2S-owned craft beer brewery bar with a curated craft beer selection…read moreand small food menu. Located in downtown Newmarket, it's easily accessible by public transit (3-minute walk from a YRT Viva bus station) and there is parking right across the street.
The interior is small and cozy. They also have a small patio at the back.
The craft beer selection here is great. The "Fairweather" (contains Agua Fresca flower sour) has a pretty pinkish / light orange colour, and tastes a bit sour. "Bellwoods" (Mexican lager) has a bit of a honey aftertaste. "Halo" is good if you like pale ale. For those who want to try a bit of everything, they offer craft beer flight of 4 for $12 (good way to mix and match!). There is also Soju Bomb on the menu, for those who want something other than beer. Non-alcholic options include Shirley Temple, oat milk chai latte (cold), juices, and soft drinks. Water is free and self-serve at the back.
Food-wise, they offer bar finger foods and snacks such as nachos, chips and dips (with guacamole), gyoza, spring rolls, and edamame. When we went, they had a special South Asian fusion menu (in collaboration with an Indian chef) that wasn't posted online. I believe this was limited time special menu. Selection included samosa chaat, tikki chaat, and masala which could come in a platter (with naan bread, biryani rice, and pico de gallo salad), poutine, or bowl. In both the regular and special South Asian menus, there were vegan and vegetarian options available.
Great business overall - very inclusive (with gender-neutral washrooms), cozy and intimate atmosphere, and there are even board games and playing cards at the back (Codenames, UNO, regular deck of cards, etc.).