Any kind of bar or club is yours to have in Old Strathcona. I recommend:
O’Byrnes (10616 Whyte Ave) is great in the early evening, not too crowded, and you can get a good spot on the patio. After 9pm it gets crowded with young people and noisy. The second floor has lots of comfortable couches and chairs, which are great for the long haul. The food is usual Irish pub fare and the beer selection is vast.
The Savoy (10401 Whyte Ave.; 438-0373) is good if you want to hear yourself talk and hear others. It also offers elegant food, great ambience, and a great location.
The Next Act (8224 104 St.) is next to the main theater district a block away from Whyte Ave. It’s casual and has a great patio, but it’s small. It’s the quintessential Thespian hangout. There’s a nice selection of food and drinks.