The Hills

Overview

Surrey Hills is no longer the alcoholic 'dry-zone' it was a mere decade ago. If the presence of The Hills Wine Bar — from the team behind Milton Wine Shop and The Alps — isn't enough to prove it, maybe the bar's life-size graphic of Maria von Trapp prancing through the Austrian Hills with a bottle of wine in either hand will.

The modest-fronted bar on Union Road opened in 2017, and winds back farther than the passerby would expect. That means it provides plenty of perfect spots to sit and catch up over a bottle of wine — and with 220 varieties choose from, that's no easy task. There's also a trusty list of beers, a few ciders and some staple cocktails to at least keep the front of a balanced drinks menu.

As for food, the bar offers up solid pizza options, including the Milk & Honey with prosciutto, pork, gorgonzola, rosemary, and honey. It's also added classic bar snacks and an attractive DIY cheese and charcuterie board selection.

In keeping with its wine-centric vibe, The Hills also provides wine experiences for those eager to learn more about what they're drinking. These range from What is Natural Wine ($49) to the Burgundy Masterclass ($390) — and can take place in-house, at the office or even in your home.