Tianna ClarkeMy college years in Vancouver were a whirlwind of late-night study sessions, greasy spoon breakfasts, and, of course, unforgettable nights out in Yaletown.
Whether celebrating a good grade or escaping the stress of exams, those nights out with friends were the glue that held our college experience together. Exploring the vibrant bar scene was a rite of passage.
So, if you’re looking to relive those college days or simply experience the magic for yourself, I’ve compiled a list of the best bars in the neighborhood. Grab your friends and dive into the ultimate guide to Yaletown’s nightlife!
1. Dovetail
Media credit: dovetailvancouver
Website: http://dovetailrestaurant.ca/
Address: 1079 Mainland St, Vancouver, BC V6B 5P9, Canada
Contact details: +16043361088
Operating hours: 11:30 AM–12 AM
Dovetail is about contemporary Canadian cuisine with a cool California-inspired West Coast flair. Walking in, you’re greeted by a cozy ambiance with a modern Boho feel. It’s a perfect mix of stylish yet relaxed.
The menu includes small plates, salads, pasta, and large plates. One dish that I love is their spicy vodka pasta. It has just the right kick—enough to get your taste buds dancing but not so much that you’re gasping for water.
What I love most about Dovetail is the vibe. It’s lively and bustling, yet you still feel like you can kick back and enjoy a meal. Whether you’re out for a chic night with friends or a cozy dinner with someone special, it’s the perfect spot.
Pro tip:
You have to try their butter beef tataki—a standout dish beautifully showcasing their creativity!
2. The Stock Room
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Website: https://www.freehouse.co/locations/stock-room
Address: 1144 Homer St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2X6, Canada
Contact details: +16046090901
Operating hours: 5 PM–1 AM
The Stock Room is tucked away behind Hundy Burger in Yaletown. It feels like one of those hidden gems you want to keep to yourself, but it’s too good not to share.
First, there’s no signage outside, which adds to the charm. As soon as you step inside, the place has an old-school speakeasy feel with exposed brick walls and wooden accents, and somehow, it manages to mix that with tropical vibes.
The Stock Room was opened by the Freehouse Collective, and let me tell you—they know what they’re doing with cocktails. I tried the “Ahhh pamplemplemousse!”- a refreshing blend of mezcal, grapefruit, and mint.
Pro tip:
If you’re feeling peckish, you can order food from Hundy Burger next door, which is a total win. They have a tasty veggie burger that I couldn’t resist trying while I was there.
3. Alchemy Bar and Kitchen
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Website: http://www.alchemybar-kitchen.ca/
Address: 1269 Hamilton St, Vancouver, BC V6B 1E2, Canada
Contact details: +16044283232
Operating hours: 3–11 PM
Alchemy Bar and Kitchen is for you if you enjoy delicious food and creative cocktails. The decor strikes the perfect balance between modern chic and comfort, making it feel right whether you’re out for a casual hangout or a romantic dinner.
What I love most is that it feels like a gathering spot. Everyone enjoys the lively atmosphere, from professionals unwinding after work to couples wanting a special night out.
They’ve got everything from homemade pasta to gourmet pizzas. If you pop in on a Monday or Tuesday, take advantage of their Pasta Night. You can indulge in any pasta dish for just $14.95 and pair it with one of their inventive cocktails.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss out on their Hazy Dayz cocktail—a refreshing mix of El Dorado rum and Chambord liqueur perfect for sipping while soaking in the vibrant Yaletown scene!
4. Capo & The Spritz
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Website: https://www.capoandspritz.com/
Address: 350 Davie St, Vancouver, BC V6B 1R2, Canada
Contact details: +16046420557
Operating hours: 8 AM–10 PM
Capo & The Spritz is a lively spot that perfectly blends the magic of Italian cuisine with seriously sophisticated aperitif-style cocktails. It’s a collaboration between Autostrada Hospitality, OPUSVancouvere, and Canada’s first dedicated spritz bar.
Chef Lucais Syme is the mastermind behind the amazing Neapolitan-style pizzas. The sourdough crust is fermented for 36 hours, which makes a big difference.
The vibe inside is modern but still warm and inviting—perfect for a casual meal or a fancy cocktail night out. The restaurant also has a great outdoor patio, a lovely spot to enjoy warm summer evenings with friends.
Pro tip:
For the must-order drink, I highly recommend trying their signature Spritz; it’s refreshing and embodies the essence of Italian aperitivo culture
5. Yaletown Brewing Company
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Website: https://yaletownbrewing.com/
Address: 1111 Mainland St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2T9, Canada
Contact details: +16046812739
Operating hours: 11:30 AM–12 AM
The Yaletown Brewing Company, or YBC, opened in 1994, making it the city’s first brewpub. It’s like the heart of the craft beer scene here. It’s in a beautiful old red-brick warehouse, and the energy pulls you in.
Picture a lively pub area with pool tables and TVs to catch all the games, plus a cozy fireplace that makes it feel so inviting. They can fit 160 people in there, so it’s always buzzing.
But let’s not forget the outdoor patio. They turned the original loading docks into this amazing space where you can relax and soak up the sun during the warmer months. It’s a great spot for casual drinks or even a bigger gathering with friends.
Pro tip:
Make sure to order their signature beer flight—it’s the perfect way to sample YBC’s unique flavors!
6. Bartholomew Bar
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Website: https://www.bartholomewbar.com/
Address: 1026 Mainland St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2T4, Canada
Contact details: +16044234131
Operating hours: 5 PM–12 AM
Bartholomew Bar has this amazing industrial-chic vibe. They’ve taken classic drinks and flipped them on their head with some creative twists. If you love cocktails, you’ll feel like a kid in a candy store.
Now, let’s talk about food for a second. The charcuterie board here is a must-try. I remember pairing their signature cocktails with some bites, and it honestly felt like I was on this mini culinary adventure.
The dim lighting and stylish decor also set the mood. It’s intimate and warm, making it an awesome spot for a first date or just catching up with close friends.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss out on their Old Fashioned variations; they’re not just classic—they’re crafted with unique ingredients that reflect different cultures, adding an exciting twist to this timeless drink.
7. The Parlour
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Website: https://www.theparlourrestaurants.com/
Address: 1011 Hamilton St, Vancouver, BC V6B 5T4, Canada
Contact details: +16045683322
Operating hours: 12 PM–12 AM
The Parlour is one of those trendy lounges that captures Vancouver’s vibe while keeping things laid-back. Its owners have created a space that feels both welcoming and chic—you walk in and just know it will be a good time.
As soon as you step inside, you’re hit with the spacious layout and gorgeous reclaimed wood bar, inviting you to sit down and relax. Their open kitchen is a feast for the eyes—you can see the custom-built Wood-Stone pizza oven in action.
Their pizzas range from $5 to $18, which is reasonable for the quality. I had to try their signature Yaletown pizza, and wow, it was something special. Pairing that with one of their craft beers or an inventive cocktail is the best way to go.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss out on ordering their Hey Migos! Cocktail. It’s a delightful mix of smoky mezcal and refreshing mint that perfectly complements the food.
8. Hello Goodbye
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Website: https://www.hellogoodbyebar.com/
Address: 1120 Hamilton St, Vancouver, BC V6B 6C5, Canada
Contact details: +16046696292
Operating hours: 10 PM–2 AM
Hello, Goodbye is one of those hidden gems you might miss if you’re not looking for it. It’s located on Hamilton Avenue, and to get in, you have to find this unmarked door next to a barbershop.
You walk down a dimly lit stairwell and are suddenly transported into a cozy, exclusive world. The concrete walls almost look like they’re painted with swirly, artistic patterns. They remind me of the Catacomb Club from John Wick 2.
Over the years, it’s captivated both locals and visitors, and for good reason. The cocktail menu is absolutely vibrant and undeniably creative. I mean, how fun are names like Adult Swim and Oceans 11? I had to try a few of those!
Pro tip:
Don’t miss out on their signature Moscow Mule—refreshing and delicious!
9. Blue Water Cafe
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Website: https://bluewatercafe.ca/
Address: 1095 Hamilton St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2W9, Canada
Contact details: +16046888078
Operating hours: 4:30–10:30 PM
Blue Water Cafe is housed in this beautifully converted brick-and-beam warehouse. From 2010 to 2019, the Georgia Straight Golden Plates Awards named it the “Best Seafood Restaurant” in Vancouver!
The real magic happens in the kitchen, thanks to Executive Chef Frank Pabst, who showcases sustainable local seafood and seasonal ingredients. Every dish feels like a work of art that highlights the best of what the ocean has to offer.
The extensive menu features amazing options, including a raw bar. One of my favorite spots is the sushi bar, where you can watch Chef Masaaki Kudo craft those exquisite rolls right before you.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss out on their Sakura cocktail. It’s not only visually stunning but also perfectly refreshing!
10. ELEM
Media credit: elemvancouver
Website: http://elemvancouver.com/
Address: 2110 Main St, Vancouver, BC V5T 0K1, Canada
Contact details: +16043893536
Operating hours: 5–10:30 PM
Elemcombiness has incredible culinary artistry with an innovative cocktail culture led by the talented Chef Vish Mayekar and his crew. They’ve transformed a once-empty space into a vibrant dining experience that breaks away from the usual Vancouver scene.
Their menu is like a world tour with a distinctly Canadian twist. Chef Mayekar’s vision for your taste buds is to create a warm atmosphere where you can explore bold flavors while sipping creative cocktails.
This cocktail lab is out of this world, allowing the bartenders to whip up drinks with impressive precision. You’ve got to try the “Build Your Own Chai”—it’s such a cool experience where you can customize your drink exactly how you like it.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss out on ordering their signature cocktail – the “Kulfi Martini.” It’s delicious and beautifully presented—a true testament to the artistry that defines Elem!
