Vancouver’s Vibrant Cocktail Scene
- The Diamond in Gastown
- The Keefer Bar in Chinatown
- L’Abattoir in Gastown
- OPUS Bar in Yaletown
- Cascade Room on Main Street in Mount Pleasant
- Cloud 9 at the Empire Landmark Hotel, Downtown
- The Refinery, Downtown
- UVA Wine Bar in Yaletown
- The Irish Heather in Gastown
- Reflections Lounge at the Rosewood Hotel Georgia, Downtown
Vancouver is a city that loves its cocktails! Over the last 15 years, the cocktail scene has expanded dramatically, propelled by the city’s high-end food culture, which boasts some of the best restaurants globally, along with talented bartenders and mixologists who have crafted world-renowned original cocktails. One notable example is David Wolowidnyk of West Restaurant, who created the “Passage to India” cocktail, famously served at the Slumdog Millionaire Oscar party.
In Vancouver, the finest cocktail bars are more than just about exceptional drinks; they create a unique atmosphere, are located in prime spots, and offer an exhilarating experience, even when one is merely ordering a tonic-and-lime.
The Diamond in Gastown
Address: 6 Powell St, Vancouver, BC V6A 1E9, Canada
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This bar is part of Mark Brand’s group of Gastown establishments, which includes Boneta and Save-on-Meats. The Diamond is widely considered one of Vancouver’s coolest cocktail bars. It is located on the second floor of a historic Gastown building, which previously functioned as a brothel. Overlooking Gastown’s iconic Maple Tree Square, The Diamond radiates a sleek, urban style.
The Keefer Bar in Chinatown
Address: 135 Keefer St, Vancouver, BC V6A 1X3, Canada
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Phone: +1 604-688-1961
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Vancouver’s Chinatown has witnessed a surge in trendy nightlife venues, partly due to the enduring success of the Keefer Bar. Here, renowned bartender and Bar Manager Danielle Tatarin utilizes Chinatown-sourced ingredients to concoct unique Asian-inspired cocktails.
L’Abattoir in Gastown
Address: 217 Carrall St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2J2, Canada
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Phone: +1 604-568-1701
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Right across from The Diamond, L’Abattoir stands as one of the best restaurants in Gastown and a top cocktail destination. It features a sophisticated, chic ambiance and original cocktails that are celebrated as some of the finest in the city.
OPUS Bar in Yaletown
Address: 350 Davie St, Vancouver, BC V6B 5Z6, Canada
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Phone: +1 866-642-6787
Yaletown, especially along Mainland and Hamilton Streets, is known for upscale nightlife. Among the best venues for spotting celebrities is the OPUS Bar at the OPUS hotel, where famous faces are frequently seen, and the atmosphere is as glamorous as it gets.
Cascade Room on Main Street in Mount Pleasant
Address: 2616 Main St, Vancouver, BC V5T 3E6, Canada
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Phone: +1 604-709-8650
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The Cascade Room boasts a wide selection of beers and cocktails, offering a relaxed neighborhood vibe that reflects the essence of Main Street/SoMa. This venue is perfect for drinks with friends and attracts a diverse crowd.
Cloud 9 at the Empire Landmark Hotel, Downtown
Known as one of Vancouver’s top five dining spots with a view, Cloud 9 serves as an excellent setting for after-dinner cocktails. Enjoy breathtaking views in a stylish, revolving restaurant atmosphere.
The Refinery, Downtown
Address: 1115 Granville St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1M1, Canada
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Phone: +1 604-687-8001
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Located in the heart of Granville Street’s nightlife district, The Refinery presents an extensive range of original cocktails, making it the perfect launch point for an evening of exploration of Vancouver’s best nightclubs.
UVA Wine Bar in Yaletown
Address: 900 Seymour St, Vancouver, BC V6B 0A8, Canada
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Phone: +1 604-632-9560
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Voted as the Best Wine Bar by the Georgia Straight consistently from 2010 to 2015, UVA Wine Bar serves as a sophisticated alternative to typical nightlife bars. It is favored by a wide range of guests, making it an ideal spot for socializing, whether with friends or a romantic partner.
The Irish Heather in Gastown
Address: 248 E Georgia St, Vancouver, BC V6A 1Z7, Canada
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Phone: +1 604-688-9779
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As a neighborhood fixture, The Irish Heather provides a nostalgic experience reminiscent of traditional pubs. With an impressive collection of whiskeys in its on-site Whiskey Shebeen, this establishment appeals to whiskey aficionados. Although more of a pub than a cocktail bar, it holds a strong reputation as one of the best places to drink in Vancouver.
Reflections Lounge at the Rosewood Hotel Georgia, Downtown
Address: 801 W Georgia St 4th Floor, Vancouver, BC V6C 1P7, Canada
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Phone: +1 604-673-7043
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Among Vancouver’s cocktail bars, none exemplifies high-society luxury quite like the outdoor Reflections Lounge at the historic Rosewood Hotel Georgia. Described by The Globe and Mail as “swishy,” Reflections offers a lavish escape, open seasonally during spring and summer.
