Here are 14 of our favourite spots around the city that guarantee a great cocktail.
1. Nightingale
A bit more upscale and with a fantastic ambiance every time, Nightingale is one of our go-tos for a nice night out. Fantastically located right by Coal Harbour, they´ve got delicious cocktails and (of course) award-winning cuisine to go along with it. We always enjoy trying their newest cocktail special concoction, but their classic negroni after dark is a staple for a reason.
Location: 1017 W Hastings St
2. Key Party
One of many hidden speakeasies around the city, this cocktail bar is a fantastic option if you want to head somewhere a little different. Home to rounds of shots called “The Jealous Boyfriend” or “Liquid Cocaine”, a night out at Keyparty is certainly not like at your typical bar. I mean it´s a 70s themed speakeasy hidden behind a faux accounting office – need we say more?
Location: 2305 Main St
3. Ophelia
Relatively new to the restaurant scene in Vancouver, since 2020 Ophelia has been drawing crowds thanks to their funky Mexican decor and great drinks. Taking a distinctly Latin spin on all your favourite cocktails, this delicious restaurant and cocktail bar has tons of fantastic tequilas and mezcals for you to try. Oh and did we mention they have a margarita Mondays?
Location: 165 W 2nd Ave
4. Keefer Bar
Known as one of the best bars in Canada, the Keefer Bar (and Yard) are long-time favourites for a good cocktail spot in Vancouver. Their bar is apothecary themed and has a dark n stormy atmosphere that´s perfect for an intimate night out. Check out their website to see photos of all their seriously stunning cocktails.
Location: 135 Keefer St
5. Tocador
One of the most lively and delicious spots on Main (and there´s a lot to chose from!), Tocador is a classic for a fun vibe and tasty cocktails. This Latin American spot has jaw-dropping seasonal drinks and Live Music every Sunday at 6pm! Stop by for an assured good time.
Location: 2610 Main St
6. The Diamond
A fun cocktail lounge in the heart of Gastown, we simply couldn´t forget to include these guys. The Diamond is one of the trail-blazers of the cocktail scene in Vancouver and you can definitely tell. Each of their drinks is crafted to perfection and unfortunately go down waaaay too fast. This spot is super popular so make sure you reserve in advance if you want to ensure a table!
Location: 6 Powell St
7. La Mezcaleria
Known for their authentic Mexican bites and killer cocktails, La Mezcaleria on Commercial Dr is yet another fun Latin place on our list (and there´s more coming ;)). With late night happy hours and flights of tequila and/or mezcal, we can bet this restaurant is rising higher and higher on your need-to-go list.
Location: 1622 Commercial Dr
8. Sing Sing
Boasting pho, pizza and craft beers – funnily enough, Sing Sing is one of our favourite places in Vancouver for a good cocktail. We seem to get the ginbucha like every time we go (oops) but do us a favour and try something else on our behalf.
Location: 2718 Main St
9. El Cuchillo
You know you can always count on a fun Mexican spot to have the best cocktails. Cuchillo on Powell is another spot that perfectly combines a fun atmosphere (good music, good people) and quality drinks. We have to warn you though – their margaritas are powerful…in the best way possible.
Location: 261 Powell St
10. The Stable House Bistro
While this might be a neighbourhood wine bar, the Stable House Bistro is also a fantastic spot for crafty cocktails. Located on one of the pretty side streets in South Granville, this local gathering hole was made to be a “meeting place to share good food, wine and time together”. We love the people, feeling of this place, and their ever-changing seasonal menu so give it a try next time you´re in the area!
Location: 1520 W 13th Ave
11. Pizza Coming Soon
Retro as f, and the “spot” that is quickly drawing the attention of local celebrities, Pizza Coming Soon is another Chinatown bar you need to check out. Instead of waiting for pizza that is never actually ´coming soon´, you can sip on crafty Asian-inspired cocktails, natural wines or some sake! Our go-to continues to be their Ume Spritz, but there are plenty to choose from.
Location: 179 E Pender St
12. Havana
We promise this is the last Latin-inspired place on this list!! But we just couldn´t walk away without mentioning Havana. A funky Cuban restaurant with margaritas, mojitos and sangrias in every flavour you can imagine – it´s super fun and also delicious. They´ve also Bloozy Slushies that are totally worth the brain freeze.
Location: 1212 Commercial Dr
13. Bao Bei
While their cocktail list might not be the biggest, Bao Bei´s drinks are innovative and totally different than what we´ve seen elsewhere. Take their Nai Nai Punch for example. Made with bourbon, averna, cynar, coffee cola, and clarified with milk – it´s the tasty and unique cocktail experience that´s perfect for your next night out.
Location: 163 Keefer St
14. Sai Woo
Sai Woo in Chinatown has an extensive list of fantastic cocktails (and mocktails) that are worth coming back again and again for. Their So Cuke with gin, St Germain, cucumber bitters, lychee pure, lime and sparkling lime is nothing short of extraordinary but let us know which one is your fav!
Location: 158 E Pender St