Known for its amazing craft beer and coffee scenes, Vancouver has a ton to offer locals and visitors alike, no matter what you’re craving. And if you’re searching for a drink that satisfies your eyes as much as your tastebuds, there are plenty of spots in Vancouver with creative, immersive cocktails worth checking out.
Want a drink that’s on fire? Or going up in smoke? Keep reading. Here are 10 spots for Instagram-worthy sips in Vancouver.
H Tasting Lounge
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When it comes to creative ingredients, flavours, and presentation, you really can’t go wrong with any beverage at H Tasting Lounge – be it a cocktail or mocktail. Their curated drink menu brings to life the work and passion of their world-class bartenders through innovative specialty drinks, ranging from the yuzu & matcha Radio Ginza, to their new spring-themed sips from The Secret Garden dome dining experience.
Where: 1601 Bayshore Drive
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Zarak by Afghan Kitchen
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In the relatively short time it’s been open, Zarak has already carved its own corner of the brunch world – serving up delicious elevated Afghan food alongside imaginative drinks like the Fruit Loops cocktail with bourbon and oat milk, Not An Espresso Martini made with Turkish coffee, as well as mimosa and caesar flights. And for dinner, their rotating cocktail menu has plenty of unique standouts – like the Zarak Old Fashioned, Xi Fei, and Dr. Damji’s Negroni.
Where: 2102 Main Street
The Dark Side
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The Darkside is one of Vancouver’s newest gastropubs, serving comfort Asian fare reimagined with a West Coast twist. Their food menu certainly packs a spicy punch, as does their cocktail list, which features everything from signature sips to unique shooters. On our radar? The Miso Smooth (Jameson, miso honey, & ginger) and the Ice Queen of Spades (Jim beam bourbon, ribena, lemon, egg whites).
Where: 219 Union Street
Noah’s Cafe
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Tucked away on Denman Street next to Cafe Portrait is a cozy, unassuming spot for creative Japanese fare and cocktails – which recently relocated from its spot on Davie. Noah’s Cafe definitely nails the hidden gem aesthetic, with plenty of interactive, creative cocktails to go around.
Where: 1096 Denman Street
Botanist
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At Botanist, the word “innovative” is an understatement. Known for its colourful, enticing plates and weekend brunch, the restaurant is no stranger to pouring a good cocktail. Our pick? The Blue Moon during brunch, or if you’re feeling adventurous – the Bartender’s Whimsy.
Where: 1038 Canada Place
Laowai
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Located inside Blnd Tger, Laowai is a classic speakeasy experience – but has some pretty unique sips on the menu. This is definitely a spot you have to experience for yourself, though, because they’re pretty hush-hush about naming menu items on their socials. After one quick scroll, we’re ready to head over!
Where: 251 West Georgia
Mount Pleasant Vintage & Provisions
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This retro-themed spot has one of the most unique interiors we’ve seen in the city, and two different patios with distinct vibes to choose from. Stepping inside makes you feel like you’re being transported to another world, and their drink menu certainly helps paint the picture. From the aptly-named Scooby Snack to the Sizzurp spirit sour, there’s something for everyone here.
Where: 67 West 6th Avenue
The Shameful Tiki Room
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We couldn’t not include Shameful Tiki Room, in all of its colourful, vibrant, topical-themed glory. Complete with Polynesian-inspired eats, rushing waterfall sound effects, and fish bowls ablaze, this spot is the epitome of “dinner and a show.”
Our suggestion? Reserve your spot a couple of weeks in advance and split a mystery bowl or volcano bowl with your friends. Or, if you rather fly solo, we recommend the rum-based Hurricane or the Zombie – which is definitely our first and last drink of the night.
Where: 4362 Main Street
The Diamond
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A quintessential destination for classic cocktails in Vancouver, The Diamond is one of Gastown’s finest watering holes, if you ask us. Beautiful twinkling city lights, exposed brick interior, and even a secret “Hideaway” bar within a bar to keep things interesting. Their drinks might not be as flashy as others out there, but there’s no denying their beauty.
Where: 6 Powell Street
Notch8 Restaurant & Bar
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Named after a train’s top speed, Notch8 brings the best of 1930s glamour and Vancouver’s fine dining scene to the lobby of the OG Fairmont Hotel Vancouver. With drinks that are as visually compelling as they are tasty, Notch8 is a great spot for any occasion, especially if you want to get into character & don some vintage wear.
Where: 900 West Georgia
Key Party
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Last but certainly not least, we come to Key Party on Main Street. Behind the run of the mill, the office-inspired exterior is an eclectic spot inspired by the 60s and 70s, when actual ‘Key Parties’ were popular amongst swingers. Don’t worry though, it’s just a name here!
Where: 2305 Main Street
And that’s a wrap on some stunning, creative cocktails you can sip on in Vancouver. Cheers!
