With a handful of Vancouver bartenders competing at the international level, it’s safe to say we’ve got some of the best cocktails in the world. In certain neighbourhoods, it’s hard to find a bad sip, and in others, you are guaranteed to find at least one spot that is hitting it out of the park with their drink list. Here are our favourite cocktail destinations in Vancouver.
UVA
900 Seymour St | 604-632-9560 $$$ | Wine Bar
@uvavancouver |
Visit websiteAdjoining the Moda Hotel, UVA is an evening destination for connoisseurs of fine wines and spirits. Unique import beers and enticing cocktails also on offer.
The Blackbird Public House & Oyster Bar
905 Dunsmuir St | 604-899-4456 $$ | Canadian
@theblackbirdbar |
Visit websiteThe beverage program at Blackbird, co-created by beverage Director Trevor Kallies and former Executive Barman Jay Jones, showcases twenty-four beer lines, craft cocktails and a satellite scotch bar with 70+ labels.
Lobby Lounge at Fairmont Pacific Rim
1038 Canada Pl | $$$ | Lounge
@fairmontpacific |
Visit websiteCount on head barman Grant Sceney's liquid creations to be spot-on every time. After a few sips of his refreshingly unique cocktails, you'll agree his 4th place finish at the Diageo World Class bartender competition in England was well-deserved.
L'Abattoir
217 Carrall St | 604-568-1701 $$$ | French
@labattoir_van |
Visit websiteBuilt in the 19th century, L'Abattoir is the site of Vancouver's first jail. Below an elevated dining room lies the bar and lounge where one can indulge in innovative cocktails.
Bao Bei
162 Keefer St | 604-688-0876 $$ | Modern Chinese
@baobei1 |
Visit websiteAt the excellent Bao Bei, you'll find classic cocktails - with a Chinese twist.
The Diamond
6 Powell St | 604-568-8272 $$ | Bar / Tapas
@gastowndiamond |
Visit websiteOne of Vancouver's craft-cocktail bars does not disappoint with its diverse menu. Perfect spot for a pre-drink or a nightcap.
The Keefer Bar
135 Keefer St | 604-688-1961 $$ | Lounge
@thekeeferbar |
Visit websiteHome of award-winning bartender Danielle Tatarin who creates unique house-made tinctures, bitters, syrups and teas to incorporate into her pre-prohibition influenced drinks.
Notturno
280 Carrall St | 604-720-3145 $$$ | Italian Tapas
@notturnogastown |
Visit websiteHome of "H", one of Vancouver's most decorated bartenders with a slew of well-known English bars (Ronnie Scott's and Casita) on his resume. With over 20 years of experience, expect out-of-the-box creations made with unique ingredients like foie gras-washed Calvados.
Pourhouse
162 Water St | 604-568-7022 $$ | Canadian
@pourhouse_van |
Visit websiteThe cocktails at Pourhouse, designed by bar manager Rhett Williams, have an old soul, whether plain or fancy. Set your drink down on 120-year old planks of reclaimed Douglas Fir that make up the 38 foot bar.
Wildebeest
120 W Hastings St | 604-687-6880 $$$ | Canadian / Nose to Tail
@wildebeestyvr |
Visit websiteThis multi-level space set in a refurbished 19th century building, offers a front house cocktail bar & lounge, dining rooms and an intimately-set underground wine bar.
Bambudda
99 Powell St | 604-428-0301 $$ | Modern Chinese
@bambuddagastown |
Visit websiteWhere one particularly large, Tsui-Hang-inspired cocktail is served in a tea pot. Here, liquid concoctions are Asian-inspired and made with special care by industry veterans. On warmer nights enjoy the blue velvet bar seats and fresh air just a step from the sidewalk.
Thirsty for Main Street's very best cocktails? Here are my favourite bars, serving sips from expert bartenders who truly care about every element required to make the perfect drink.
The Acorn
3995 Main St | 604-566-9001 $$$ | Vegetarian
@acornvancouver |
Visit websiteThe Acorn boasts one of the best signature cocktail lists in the city. With an ingredient list this long (they mix together ohh so well), these are not your typical DIY cocktails.
Camp Upstairs
1020 Main St | 604-484-6018 $ | Bar / Snacks
@campupstairs |
Visit websiteHead Upstairs for something new, a stiff barrel-aged cocktail. You'll find the classics here as well.
Blue Water Cafe
1095 Hamilton St. | 604-688-8078 $$$$ | Seafood
@bluewatercafe |
Visit websiteAt Blue Water Cafe, you can find one of the most extensive spirit selections in the city - and not just the classics. Sip on one of their over 180 single malt whiskeys, iced vodkas or premium chilled sakes.
Maenam
1938 W 4th Ave | 604-730-5579 $ | Thai
@maenam |
Visit websiteAt Maenam, the cocktails get just as much tender, love and care as the food with unique Thai flavours infused into their drinks.
Craving a superbly crafted cocktail? The West End's best spots for sipping are listed below.