Robert WebbThe 6 Best Bars in Vancouver
Bars can be a great place to catch your favorite sports team, meet up with friends, or just unwind. The atmosphere and feel of a bar provide a great experience when you’re sipping on an ice-cold glass of your favorite adult beverage.
To help you find a place with nice crowds, good service, and great drinks, we’ve made a list of the best bars in Vancouver. As a means of backing up our entries, we’ve also mixed in some patron reviews, bar breakdowns, and other helpful tidbits of info.
How Much Do Bars Cost in Vancouver?
Before we start, let’s make sure you don’t squeeze your wallet dry while you’re out quenching your thirst. Below is a price table for some of the entries on our list:
| Alibi Room | Beers $4 – $10.25 Cider $6.25 – $10.50 Wines $10 – $12/glass, $50 – $60/bottle Cocktails $11 – $14 Juices/ Sodas $3 – $5 |
| Guilt & Co. | Cocktails $13 – $16 Beers $7.50 – $10 Ciders $9 – $10 Wines $10.75 – $14.50/glass, $45 – $60/bottle |
| The Cambie Bar & Grill | Cocktails $7.5 – $10.50 Beers $5.25 – $20 Wines $6 – $10.25/glass Ciders $5.5 – $8 |
| Malone’s Taphouse | Cocktails $11 – $14 Wines $12 – $17/glass, $35/bottle Beers $8 – $9 Coolers $6 – $8 |
| Pourhouse Restaurant | Cocktails $14 – $40 Wines $12 – $17/glass, $58 – $105/bottle Beers $6 – $8 |
| The Liberty Distillery |
The Best Bars in Vancouver
With prices covered, it’s time to meet your new prospects for late-night hangouts, dinner dates, and all manner of recreation. So, without further ado, here are our picks for the best bars in Vancouver
1. Alibi Room
| SERVICES | Local/ Imported beer Bar chow Wine Cocktails |
| WEBSITE | http://www.alibi.ca/ |
| ADDRESS | 157 Alexander St, Vancouver, BC V6A 1B8, Canada |
| CONTACT DETAILS | Phone number: (604) 623 – 3383 |
| OPERATING HOURS | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 4:30 pm – 11 pm Wednesday: 4:30 pm – 11 pm Thursday: 4:30 pm – 11 pm Friday: 4:30 pm – 11 pm Saturday: 4:30 pm – 11 pm Sunday: 4:30 pm – 11 pm |
In their own words, the Alibi Room is what is referred to as a “modern tavern”. In the traditional sense, a tavern sells a variety of food and drink, but these folks have modernized themselves by sourcing local ingredients and expanding their drink selection.
Any beer lover will be overjoyed with the Alibi Room’s 50 different beers on tap. To ensure the highest quality, each brew is carefully selected from the absolute best that Vancouver’s local breweries have to offer.
Since it’s not exactly practical or advisable to sample 50 beers in one sitting, this watering hole offers a 4-beer sample tray. With this sampler, patrons can choose various brews to try in order to find their personal favorite.
If you’re a light drinker, there’s no cause for concern as sample portions are kept to servings of 5 oz glasses. This helps you keep your wits about you to fully savor each and every carefully chosen brew.
Pros
- Great for beer lovers
- Has over 50 brews on tap
- Uses local ingredients and local brews
Cons
- Wait times can be quite long
Customer Reviews
The Alibi Room’s expansive selection of beers has earned it thousands of rave reviews over the years:
“Best beer selection in Vancouver. Excellent food, although limited menu. Range of cocktails and non alcoholic options. Worth a repeat visit if you enjoy quality craft beer selection.” – Amber M.
“The beer selection is amazing, as well as service and ambience. New outdoor seats as great for long summer days” – Leo A.
2. Guilt & Co
| SERVICES | Cocktails Bar food Beers Wines Live music |
| WEBSITE | https://www.guiltandcompany.com/ |
| ADDRESS | 1 Alexander Street, Underground, Vancouver, BC V6A 1B2, Canada |
| CONTACT DETAILS | Phone number: (604) 288 – 1704 |
| OPERATING HOURS | Monday: 4 pm – 12 am Tuesday: 4 pm -12 am Wednesday: 4 pm – 12 am Thursday: 4 pm – 12 am Friday: 4 pm – 12 am Saturday: 4 pm – 12 am Sunday: 4 pm – 12 am |
Guilt & Co. offers a wide selection of drinks and bar foods while also giving clients the chance to enjoy live music. This classic combination of drinks and a show has helped make this bar a popular hangout for friends, couples, and also music lovers.
Their drink menu consists of a handful of delicious cocktails and around twenty or so beers and ciders. While this is certainly more limited compared to other bars, it allows these folks to focus more time and effort on quality.
When it comes to food, this place’s dishes are limited to finger foods, sandwiches, and light servings of pasta. As a result, patrons can enjoy a meal while still being able to speak with friends and enjoy the bar’s atmosphere.
If your drink of choice is neither beer nor a cocktail, Guilt & Co. has you covered with an extensive wine list. Solo diners can enjoy a nice glass of white, red, or sparkling wine and if you’re with a friend or two, you can even order a bottle for everyone to enjoy.
Pros
- Offers live music
- Has a healthy selection of wines
- Offers easy-to-eat finger foods
Cons
- Limited selection of cocktails and bar chow
Customer Reviews
Guilt & Co. has found a ton of regulars in Vancouver thanks to its great drinks and atmosphere
“Amazing place!!! Had such an epic night here. Katie was our server and was terrific!! Great staff all around. Live music in the basement and chill tunes on the patio!” – Mike B.
“The perfect place where to find a cozy atmosphere, drink great cocktails (“grounds for divorce” is my favourite) and listen to good music.
A must go place when in Vancouver.” – Gloria L.
3. The Cambie Bar & Grill
| SERVICES | Bar chow Pizzas Steaks Salads Milkshakes Cocktails Beer Wine Ciders |
| WEBSITE | http://www.cambiepubs.com/ |
| ADDRESS | 300 Cambie St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2N3, Canada |
| CONTACT DETAILS | Phone number: +(604) 688 – 9158 |
| OPERATING HOURS | Monday: 11 am – 1 am Tuesday: 11 am – 1 am Wednesday: 11 am – 1 am Thursday: 11 am – 1 am Friday: 11 am – 2 am Saturday: 11 am – 2 am Sunday: 11 am – 1 am |
The Cambie Bar and Grill was created in 1897 and it is by far one of Vancouver’s oldest bars. Having existed for so long, this establishment has a wealth of experience that shows in its extensive menu.
With everything from pizzas and burgers to soups and nachos, there’s no shortage of delicious dishes to choose from. This place’s drink menu is also nothing to scoff at as they offer both local and imported beers as well as several classic cocktails.
One real upside to visiting this tavern is the abundance of promos and deals. For example, pizza fanatics can order a beer and pizza deal while seasoned drinkers can enjoy happy hour or a beer and shot combo.
This place even offers a weekend brunch service complete with classic dishes like eggs benedict, hashbrowns, bacon, and french toast. If you’ve got a particularly sweet craving, you can even order a milkshake straight up or have one spiked with alcohol.
Pros
- Extremely long menu
- Offers a ton of great deals
- Serves alcoholic and regular milkshakes
- Has various vegan options available
Cons
- Seating can be hard to find on busy days
Customer Reviews
With reviews like this, it’s easy to see why the Cambie Bar & Grill has been around for over a hundred years:
“I’m so happy this place improved but didn’t change. There are way less tables inside now, and less crowded, staff are wearing masks, but are still as friendly as ever, and it smells fresh and aired out. Loved it !! Our server was very nice, knowledgeable, and happy to assist us (sorry, I didn’t get her name). The food came fast and it was as amazing as I remember, maybe even better. Got the big Nachos (they are Huge; maybe for 3-4 ppl), chicken strips, and a pitcher of beer. Happy that I went back, it’s been too long.” – Kiky K.
“Its a bar and grill. For $9 this is what I got with bottomless coffee. Its clean, warm and dry. The atmosphere is cool a bit bohemian and world traveler mixed together. There are many flags hanging and a few hostels near by. Its a few minutes walk from the gas town clock which is iconic. A fun spot to stop in – day or night.” -Scott
4. Malone’s Taphouse
| SERVICES | Cocktails Wines Beers Coolers Bar chow Pizza Sandwiches |
| WEBSITE | http://www.malones.bc.ca/ |
| ADDRESS | 608 W Pender St, Vancouver, BC V6B 1V8, Canada |
| CONTACT DETAILS | Phone number: (604) 684 – 9977 Email: info@malones.bc.ca |
| OPERATING HOURS | Monday: 11 am – 11 pm Tuesday: 11 am – 11 pm Wednesday: 11 am – 11 pm Thursday: 11 am – 11 pm Friday: 11 am – 11 pm Saturday: 11 am – 11 pm Sunday: 11 am – 11 pm |
Malone’s Taphouse prides itself on having one of the best rotating beer selections in Vancouver. With 38 taps in-house, this is an excellent place to get in touch with your inner beer connoisseur and really figure out your tastes.
Malone’s also has a good number of finger foods, pizzas, and burgers, which pair nicely with any of their brews. If you’re looking for something a bit more filling, this establishment also serves signature dishes like fish and chips, steak frites, and an all-day breakfast plate.
Like other taphouses, this place also serves a 5-beer sample tray for those who wish to try an assortment of local brews. If you’d prefer to enjoy a cocktail, the bartenders at Malone’s will be happy to mix you an apple pie old fashioned, or any one of their modern classic cocktails
With tons of space and large tables, this bar openly encourages patrons to come in large groups. In line with various health precautions, it is also advisable to book a table in advance to avoid overcrowding
Pros
- Offers a rotating selection of beer
- Serves a wide selection of bar chow
- Encourages large groups
Cons
- Prices are higher than other bars
Customer Reviews
Many patrons of Malone’s come for the beer and stay for the excellent service:
“Great food and UFC viewing! Other than the French fries which were well below the standard of all other menu items, the food was excellent quality, fresh, and hot with modern/upscale ingredient choices. Our server had a great personality and genuinely cared about us having a positive experience. We will be back to meet friends there soon.” – Mindy A.
“I cant rate this place highly enough! We booked for the UFC late, our chances looked bleak of getting a table. Lesley and Andrew went above and beyond to sort us out. Got us seats, recommended great food and honestly made our night. Will 100% come back here for all UFC’s and other occasions. Employees are the lifeblood of a company, this is the perfect example of this!” – Jonathan H.
5. Pourhouse Restaurant
| SERVICES | Cocktails Lunch Dinner Wines Beers |
| WEBSITE | https://www.pourhousevancouver.com/ |
| ADDRESS | 162 Water St, Vancouver, BC V6B 1B2, Canada |
| CONTACT DETAILS | Phone number: (604) 568 – 7022 Email: info@pourhousevancouver.com |
| OPERATING HOURS | Monday: 11:30 am – 12 am Tuesday: 11:30 am – 12 am Wednesday: 11:30 am – 12 am Thursday: 11:30 am – 12 am Friday: 11:30 am – 12 am Saturday: 11:30 am – 12 am Sunday: 11:30 am – 12 am |
The Pourhouse is definitely not your standard run-of-the-mill bar: this becomes apparent as soon as you step inside the building. When you walk through the bar’s glass doors, you’re greeted by polished wood furnishings and a long line of top-shelf liquors.
In a sense, this establishment gives off a fine-dining vibe with its dim interior and upscale design. It’s almost reminiscent of a speakeasy or a bar straight out of the 1930s complete with a bartender clad in a polo shirt, vest, and sleeve garters.
To go along with their top-class aesthetics, the majority of this bar’s menu is made up of variations of classic cocktails including the Manhattan, the Old Fashioned, the Daiquiri, and everybody’s favorite the Martini.
Aside from helping you live out a James Bond fantasy moment, this bar is also an excellent choice for date night. With a decent wine list made up of reds, whites, and sparkling selections, you’ll always have the perfect bottle for any occasion
Pros
- High-class interior aesthetic
- Offers live music from time to time
- Focuses on cocktails
- Makes a great Martini
Cons
- Cocktail prices are extremely high
Customer Reviews
These patrons were absolutely blown away by The Pourhouse’s top-shelf liquors and excellent bartenders:
“Stopped in to ask for directions to a good tequila bar and the nice hostess recommended their own bar… tentatively sat down and was BLOWN AWAY by the experience!! Bartender Adam was phenomenal with his insight and tequila recommendations!! The food was great, but the service was over the top. This diamond is now definitely on our list to visit again! 😎😎” – Jeff W.
“I came here with my wife for a nice dinner date. The experience was amazing. The place is fancy and staff were very friendly. I will defiantly be coming back with friends and family once more.” Lin B.
6. The Liberty Distillery
| SERVICES | Whiskey Gin Unaged Whiskey Vodka Beer |
| WEBSITE | https://www.thelibertydistillery.com/ |
| ADDRESS | 1494 Old Bridge Street Granville Island, Vancouver BC V6H 3S6 |
| CONTACT DETAILS | T: 1 (604) 558-1998 E: info@thelibertydistillery.com |
| OPERATING HOURS | Temporary Reduced Hours Mon-Thu: 12pm – 7pm Fri-Sun: 11am – 9pm Holidays: Please Call, May Vary |
The Liberty Distillery was established in 2010 and is an authentic artisanal distillery. Ever since, they have been serving people first hand-crafted, premium spirits made from 100% BC organic grain.
Step back in time at their 110-year-old antique bar, sipping one of their classics or signature cocktails.
What made us recommend them is how they pay homage to old traditions. They do this by fermenting and distilling onsite following exact recipes.
Unfortunately, they don’t accept reservations, which means you’ll have to go there earlier than the time you prefer to ensure that you have enough seats for you and your loved one/s.
Pros
- Has private functions
- The cocktail menu is available on their website
- Distilling small portions of fermented materials at a time
- Accommodates any non-alcoholic cocktail requests
Cons
- No reservations; first come first served
Customer Reviews
Here are a few reviews from their previous customers:
“We held our work Christmas Party there this year. Approximately 25 people attended and there was plenty of room to move around and for everyone to be seated if they wished. The drinks are delightful, the staff are super accommodating and everyone at the party had an incredible time. It’s definitely a little out of the way place on Granville Island but it’s well worth a visit. They distill the spirits there, you can not just buy cocktails but also bottles of spirits as well as cocktail books, accessories, bitters etc. It’s a wonderful local company who really care about their customers. We’ll be back for sure and I know other people at the party will be heading there again soon.”
“We had our company holiday event at Liberty. Rented the entire space for the evening. It’s the perfect intimate venue for a group of 30-35 people, great atmosphere, pleasant and knowledgeable staff and amazing drinks! Pre-planning was smooth, accommodating and professional. We had a great time and hope to be back!”
FAQs About Bars
That tops off our list of the best bars in Vancouver. We certainly hope that you’ve found a new prospect for a late-night hangout spot or a sleek dinner date venue.
If you’d prefer a more intimate setting for a date, we’ve compiled a list of the best Italian restaurants in Vancouver. To help you pick the perfect place we’ve also included customer reviews, restaurant summaries, contact details, and other important info.
