Vancouver

1. Popular Bars and Pubs in Vancouver

Here are some of the most well-known and highly recommended establishments:

Craft Beer Bars and Breweries

• Brassneck Brewery (Mount Pleasant): A local favorite for craft beer enthusiasts. Known for its rotating taps and experimental brews, this brewery offers a casual, industrial-chic vibe.
• 33 Acres Brewing Company (Mount Pleasant): A minimalist brewery with a focus on small-batch beers. Their 33 Acres of Life (a pale ale) and 33 Acres of Ocean (a West Coast IPA) are must-tries.
• Parallel 49 Brewing Company (East Vancouver): Famous for its creative and bold beer flavors, such as the Trash Panda Hazy IPA and the Ruby Tears Red Ale.

Cocktail Bars

• The Keefer Bar (Chinatown): A stylish, apothecary-themed bar offering some of the best cocktails in the city. Their drinks often incorporate Asian-inspired ingredients, and the ambiance is intimate and moody.
• Prohibition (Downtown): Located in the Rosewood Hotel Georgia, this upscale speakeasy-style bar is known for its luxurious cocktails and live jazz music.
• The Diamond (Gastown): A sophisticated cocktail bar with a focus on classic and innovative drinks. The bar overlooks Gastown’s cobblestone streets, offering a charming view.

Traditional Pubs

• The Irish Heather (Gastown): A cozy Irish pub with a great selection of whiskey and hearty comfort food like shepherd’s pie and bangers and mash.
• The Lamplighter Public House (Gastown): One of Vancouver’s oldest pubs, offering a lively atmosphere, craft beers, and pub classics.
• The Cambie Bar & Grill (Gastown): A budget-friendly, backpacker-friendly pub with a laid-back vibe and affordable drinks.

Themed Bars

• Storm Crow Alehouse (West Broadway): A geek-themed bar with board games, sci-fi decor, and a menu featuring items like the "Critical Hit Burger."
• The Shameful Tiki Room (Main Street): A Polynesian-inspired tiki bar with tropical cocktails served in elaborate mugs and a fun, kitschy atmosphere.

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2. Average Costs for Drinks and Meals

Vancouver is known for being on the pricier side, but there are options for every budget. Here’s what you can expect:

• Craft Beer: CAD $6–$9 for a pint at most bars and breweries.
• Cocktails: CAD $12–$18, depending on the complexity and the venue.
• Wine: CAD $10–$15 per glass.
• Pub Food: CAD $12–$20 for appetizers (e.g., nachos, wings), CAD $15–$25 for mains (e.g., burgers, fish and chips).
• Happy Hour Deals: Many bars and pubs offer happy hour specials (usually between 3 PM and 6 PM), where you can find drinks for CAD $5–$8 and discounted snacks.

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3. Notable Local Specialties

Vancouver’s bar and pub scene reflects the city’s diverse and innovative culinary culture. Here are some local specialties to look out for:

• Craft Beer: Vancouver is a craft beer hub, and many bars feature local breweries. Look for West Coast IPAs, sour ales, and seasonal brews.
• Seafood: Many pubs and bars incorporate fresh, local seafood into their menus. Try dishes like fish tacos, oysters, or salmon burgers.
• Asian-Inspired Cocktails: Reflecting Vancouver’s large Asian population, many cocktail bars incorporate ingredients like yuzu, matcha, and sake into their drinks.
• Poutine: A quintessential Canadian dish of fries topped with cheese curds and gravy, often available at pubs.

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4. Ambiance and Crowds

The ambiance and crowd can vary significantly depending on the type of establishment:

• Craft Breweries: Typically casual and laid-back, with a mix of locals and tourists. Expect communal seating and a friendly atmosphere.
• Cocktail Bars: More upscale and intimate, often attracting a trendy, well-dressed crowd. Reservations are recommended for popular spots like The Keefer Bar.
• Traditional Pubs: Warm and welcoming, with a mix of regulars and visitors. These venues are great for socializing and watching sports.
• Themed Bars: Fun and quirky, often drawing a younger, more eclectic crowd. These bars are great for group outings or unique experiences.

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5. Cultural and Local Considerations

When visiting bars and pubs in Vancouver, keep the following tips in mind:

Drinking Age and ID

• The legal drinking age in British Columbia is 19. Always carry a valid government-issued photo ID (passport for international visitors) as you may be asked to show it, even if you appear older.

Tipping

• Tipping is customary in Canada. A tip of 15–20% of the total bill is standard for good service.

Last Call

• Most bars and pubs close by 1 AM on weekdays and 2 AM on weekends. Last call is typically 30 minutes before closing.

Smoking and Cannabis

• Smoking is prohibited inside bars and within 6 meters of entrances. While cannabis is legal in Canada, it is not allowed to be consumed in public spaces, including bars.

Dress Code

• Most bars and pubs in Vancouver have a casual dress code, but upscale cocktail bars may require smart-casual attire.

Sustainability

• Vancouver is an eco-conscious city, and many establishments prioritize sustainability. Don’t be surprised to see paper straws, locally sourced ingredients, and vegan options on menus.

Diversity and Inclusivity

• Vancouver is an inclusive city, and its bar scene reflects this. Many establishments are LGBTQ+ friendly, and there are specific venues like The Fountainhead Pub (Davie Village) that cater to the LGBTQ+ community.

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6. Tips for Enjoying Vancouver’s Bar Scene

• Plan Ahead: Popular spots can get crowded, especially on weekends. Make reservations if possible.
• Explore Neighborhoods: Each neighborhood has its own vibe. Gastown is great for historic charm, Mount Pleasant for craft beer, and Yaletown for upscale bars.
• Try Local: Support local breweries and distilleries by sampling their products. Vancouver is home to several excellent craft distilleries, such as Odd Society Spirits and Long Table Distillery.
• Use Public Transit: Avoid driving if you plan to drink. Vancouver’s SkyTrain and buses are reliable and run late on weekends. Alternatively, use ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft.

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Vancouver’s bar and pub scene is as diverse as the city itself, offering something for every taste and budget. Whether you’re a craft beer aficionado, a cocktail connoisseur, or just looking for a cozy spot to unwind, you’re sure to find a place that suits your style. Enjoy your time in Vancouver, and cheers!