Remember those childhood cartoons where witches brewed magical elixirs? I always dreamed of being able to create potions like them. As I grew up, I realized that bartenders are the modern-day witches, crafting just as enchanting cocktails.
Join me as I embark on a journey through Vancouver’s vibrant cocktail scene. From trendy lounges to hidden speakeasies, this guide will lead you to the best cocktail spots in the city, elevating your night out.
So grab your glass, prepare for a toast, and dive into the magic of mixology together!
1. Botanist Bar
Media credit: botanistdining
Website: https://www.botanistrestaurant.com/
Address: 1038 Canada Pl, Vancouver, BC V6C 0B9
Contact details: +16046955500
Operating hours: 11:30 AM–1:30 PM, 5:30–10 PM
Pricing: $$$
Botanist Bar combines botany with innovative mixology, and it’s just incredible. The acclaimed Ste Marie design studio designed the whole setup, including the restaurant and garden.
Botanist has received many accolades, including being ranked 24th in North America’s World’s 50 Best Bars and receiving the MICHELIN Exceptional Cocktails Award.
The menu, crafted under Executive Chef Hector Laguna, offers a vibrant selection of dishes and drinks that reflect the agricultural bounty of the Pacific Northwest. One of my favorite cocktails is the “Sunshine and Rain,” served as an amuse-bouche.
What’s better is that the cocktail menu changes with the seasons, and they frequently host cocktail masterclasses where guests can learn about mixology techniques directly from the talented bartenders.
Pro tip: Arrive early to secure a coveted seat at the bar. This will allow you to witness the skilled bartenders in action and engage in conversation about the creation of their masterpieces.
2. The Keefer Bar
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Website: http://www.thekeeferbar.com/
Address: 135 Keefer St, Vancouver, BC V6A 1X3
Contact details: +16046881961
Operating hours: +16046881961
Pricing: $$$
The Keefer Bar is known for its creative cocktails and cool apothecary vibe inspired by the neighborhood’s historic Chinese pharmacies. It’s been around for over 15 years and consistently ranks among the best bars in North America.
It recently made it to No. 49 on the World’s 50 Best Bars list, which is pretty impressive, right? They even have live music, which adds to the lively vibe.
And let me tell you about the drinks! The Rosemary Gimlet is a must-try—it’s made with Beefeater gin and rosemary lime cordial and is so refreshing. They always have new and exciting cocktails on the menu, like the Chinatown Sour and Tokyo Drift.
The bar snacks and small plates, including dim sum, perfectly complement the drinks. They also have special events and happy hour discounts. You’ve got to check it out!
Pro tip:
Don’t forget to explore the hidden courtyard behind the bar. It’s a tranquil oasis in the bustling city, providing a peaceful setting to enjoy your drinks.
3. Pourhouse
Media credit: pourhouse
Website: https://www.pourhousevancouver.com/
Address: 162 Water St, Vancouver, BC V6B 1B2
Contact details: +16045687022
Operating hours:
Pricing: $
Pourhouse is in a 1910 building. The atmosphere is inviting and cozy, with reclaimed Douglas fir ceilings, antique furnishings, and a 38-foot bar made from 120-year-old wood.
I’ve been there for happy hour a few times, and it’s always been a blast. They have great small plates and a relaxed vibe. They also have a rotating selection of seasonal cocktails worth trying.
The cocktails are top-notch, especially their “Old Fashioned” with house-made bitters. Their happy hour specials are fantastic – discounted drinks and tasty bites from 3 PM to 6 PM every day.
Pro tip:
I highly recommend exploring the seasonal specials. The bartenders at Pourhouse are constantly experimenting with new flavors and techniques, ensuring a fresh and exciting experience with each visit.
4. Bagheera
Media credit: whereisbagheera
Address: 518 Main St, Vancouver, BC V6A 2T9
Operating hours: 5 PM–1 AM
Pricing: $$
Early 20th-century India-inspired Bagheera has a cool entrance where you have to “place a bet” to get inside, adding to the mystery and fun of the experience.
The ambiance is enchanting—plush seating, an elegant bar, and a blend of modern and vintage decor create a cozy yet upscale atmosphere.
I love that they have a happy hour from 5 PM to 7 PM with 50% off all lounge bites. They also have unique drinks, like the Makrut Gimlet and the Chai Old Fashioned, that reflect the bar’s theme.
The Prawn Pakoras are to die for, and paired with their expertly crafted cocktails, they’re the perfect way to unwind after a long day. Speaking of cocktails, the Tamarind Daiquiri is a must-try—it’s so refreshing and has a balance of sweetness and tanginess.
Pro tip:
One must-order cocktail at Bagheera is the “Tiger’s Eye.” The presentation is equally impressive, with the cocktail served in a beautifully etched glass that adds to the allure.
5. Laowai
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Website: http://laowai.ca/
Address: 251 E Georgia St, Vancouver, BC V6A 1Z6
Operating hours: 5 PM–1 AM
Pricing: $$
Laowai is a super cool bar at its sister restaurant, BLND TGR. You enter through a freezer door, which adds a fun and mysterious touch to the whole experience.
The cocktails are all inspired by Chinese history and feature ingredients like bamboo, ginseng, and Sichuan peppercorn. Each drink has its own story, inspired by notable figures from Chinese history, which was a cool touch.
They also have live music starting at 8 PM, adding to the ambiance. The only downside is that they don’t take reservations, so be prepared for a bit of a wait, especially during special events.
The ambiance is enchanting – think velvet copper and this beautiful green wall gives it a luxurious and intimate feel. The average price per cocktail is around $16, so it’s accessible but still feels upscale.
Pro tip:
One must-order cocktail at Laowai is the “Dragon’s Breath.” The drink is served in a traditional Chinese teacup, adding to the overall experience. The combination of flavors is bold and complex, making it a memorable cocktail.
6. The Stock Room
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Website: https://www.freehouse.co/locations/stock-room
Address: 1144 Homer St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2X6
Contact details: +16046090901
Operating hours:
Pricing: 4 PM–1 AM
The Stock Room is a hidden gem that’s part cocktail bar and part casual dining experience. It has a cool speakeasy vibe and feels like a cozy hideaway with lush greenery and eclectic decor.
I enjoyed their surprise tastings during special events. It added an element of excitement to my visits. As for the cocktails, my go-to was the “Ahh Pamplemousse!” It’s a bestseller for a reason and embodies the bar’s creative spirit.
I loved The Stock Room’s relaxed and charming ambiance. It’s perfect for casual hangouts or even a date night.
I loved The Stock Room’s relaxed and charming ambiance. It’s perfect for casual hangouts or even a date night. They also host special events and happy hours with discounts on select cocktails, which is awesome for those on a budget.
Pro tip:
Make a reservation, as The Stock Room is a popular spot and can fill up quickly. Also, don’t be afraid to ask about the hidden entrance. It’s part of the speakeasy experience!
7. La Mezcaleria
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Website: http://www.lamezcaleria.ca/
Address: 1622 Commercial Dr, Vancouver, BC V5L 3Y4
Contact details: +16045598226
Operating hours: 12–10 PM
Pricing: $$
La Mezcaleria, established in 2013, offers authentic Mexican cuisine inspired by various regions of Mexico. The ambiance is casual and vibrant, kind of like a hip cantina.
The warm lighting and colorful decor create an inviting atmosphere, perfect for a night out with friends or family. I also enjoyed their communal dining style, where sharing dishes creates memorable moments around the table.
Oh, and the drinks! I tried their Mezcal Margarita, a refreshing twist on the classic, and it was amazing. They have a great selection of high-quality tequilas and mezcals, seasonal specials, and craft cocktails that change regularly.
I loved that they use organic, locally sourced ingredients to create their delicious dishes, such as ceviches, queso fundido, and grilled seafood. But the real highlight for me was their homemade ice creams, which come in flavors like avocado and orange mezcal.
Pro tip:
Don’t be afraid to ask the bartenders about mezcal flights. This is a great way to explore different varieties and find your favorite. Also, consider pairing your cocktails with one of their delicious Mexican dishes for a complete culinary experience.
8. Tocador
Media credit: tocadorbar
Website: http://www.tocador.ca/
Address: 2610 Main St, Vancouver, BC V5T 3E6
Contact details: +16046202433
Operating hours: 4 PM–12 AM
Pricing: $$
Tocador is inspired by the vibrant essence of Latin America and offers a unique blend of elevated yet approachable Latin American cuisine. It’s run by industry veterans Guy Stowell and Dale Styner, and you can tell that their experience shines through.
The atmosphere at Tocador is so welcoming and lively, and it’s clear that they want to create a space where people can come together. The decor reflects Latin American influences and creates a cozy yet energetic space perfect for gatherings.
Let’s talk about the cocktails—they’re amazing. Their cocktail menu is full of creative drinks, and they often have special events with unique cocktails and seasonal ingredients. I tried their signature Tocororo for a refreshing kick.
I particularly loved the communal dining experience at Tocador. Sharing plates fosters a sense of community among guests, and it’s just a great way to enjoy a meal with friends.
Pro tip:
Make a reservation in advance, as Tocador can get quite busy, especially on weekends. Also, don’t be afraid to ask the bartenders for recommendations. They’re passionate about their craft and can help you discover hidden gems on the menu.
9. The Chickadee Room
Media credit: chickadeeroom
Website: https://thechickadeeroom.com/
Address: 182 Keefer St, Vancouver, BC V6A 1X4
Contact details: +16043365853
Operating hours: 4 PM–12 AM
Pricing: $$
The Chickadee Room is a super cool cocktail bar with a unique vibe. The place is inspired by the whimsical nature of its namesake bird, and the menu features craft cocktails and small plates. It’s quickly become a local favorite for its innovative drinks.
When you step inside The Chickadee Room, you’re greeted by a warm and lively ambiance. The decor combines vintage and modern elements, creating the perfect space for socializing or unwinding after a long day.
They have comfortable seating, great service, and even an outdoor patio to enjoy the fresh Vancouver air. One of the things I love about this place is its themed cocktail nights.
The signature Chickadee Fizz is an absolute must-try – a delightful concoction that perfectly balances sweetness with a hint of tartness. They also have other bestsellers like the Smoky Paloma and seasonal specials that change regularly.
Pro tip:
Check out the Happy Hour menu, which offers discounted cocktails and snacks. It’s a great way to experience the bar without breaking the bank.
10. Please! Tasting House
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Website: http://www.pleasebevco.ca/
Address: 222 W 5th Ave, Vancouver, BC V5Y 1J4
Contact details: +16044287005
Operating hours: 11 AM–11 PM
Pricing: $$
Please! Tasting House was such a fantastic experience. The vibe there is inviting and sophisticated—warm lighting, a cozy yet upscale atmosphere, and contemporary decor. It’s a great spot for both locals and tourists who want to get a taste of Vancouver.
The cocktail menu is where they shine, with a perfect blend of traditional techniques and modern flair. What blew me away was their farm-to-table concept, which focuses on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients from British Columbia.
One of my favorite things about Tasting House is its outdoor patio. During the warmer months, it’s the perfect place to soak in the city’s vibrant energy while enjoying a tranquil setting.
Pro tip:
Don’t be afraid to ask the bartenders about off-menu specials. They often experiment with new flavors and techniques. Additionally, consider visiting during happy hour for discounted drinks and a more relaxed atmosphere.