We know Vancouver is partial to a good patio, but themed bars are a close second. From tropical-inspired bars to funky retro-themed spots, here are some of the best themed bars to get you started this season.

The Shameful Tiki Room

We couldn’t have a list of themed bars and not mention the Shameful Tiki Room on Main. This small, heavily decorated spot is always in high demand no matter the time of year, and for good reason. The windows are completely blacked out – but inside lies a tropical paradise, complete with Polynesian eats, rushing waterfall sound effects, stunning cocktails (with varying amounts of alcohol), fish bowls ablaze, and even a small stage for weekly authentic hula performances.

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

Glitch Retro Arcade Bar

As the name suggests, Glitch is a go-to spot for retro vibes and video games. They’ve also got daily drink specials from 3 to 6 pm, including $4.50 highballs and rotating beer on tap. If you feel like indulging in something special, they also offer a ton of different slushies, fish bowls, and bulldogs!

Where: 2287 West Broadway

Hail Mary’s 

 

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While they can’t turn water into wine, they have plenty of delicious cocktails and Mary’s pilsner (20 oz for $8) to make up for it. And a funky “hell versus heaven” theme going on, as the name suggests. Hail Mary’s is one of those bars that you discover spontaneously on a night out, and it instantly becomes your new fave bar. Plus, they have a later happy hour from 5 to 7 pm – perfect for the after-work crowd.

Where: 670 East Broadway

Key Party

Does ‘speakeasy’ count as a theme?? Because if so, Key Party (and Narrow Lounge, for that matter) totally count. Beyond 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

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The Stock Room

 

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A classy yet approachable spot for cocktails and good chats, The Stock Room sits behind Hundy Burger downtown, designed to lure folks back with tropical island vibes and a stockroom’s worth of fancy libations and bar snacks.

Where: 1144 Homer Street

Mount Pleasant Vintage & Provisions

This last spot is a newer addition to Vancouver’s food & drink scene, but already packs a punch when it comes to impeccable vibes and views. This neighbourhood bar & grill boasts charcoal grilled eats, a mix of retro decor from the 60s and 70s, and delicious cocktails to complete the experience. With two different patios with distinct vibes to choose from, you may just have to bounce around to both at some point.

Where: 67 West 6th Avenue

And that’s a wrap on 6 of the best themed bars to check out in Vancouver this winter! We hope you take advantage of the cooler, rainier days we have in store & pop into one of these for a spell.

Curiocity Staff

With a curated slate of what matters in your city, Curiocity presents you with the most relevant local food, experiences, news, deals, and adventures. We help you get the most out of your city and focus on the easy-to-miss details so that you’re always in the know.
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