Summer is nearly upon us, and what better way to celebrate than with a delicious tropical beverage (or two, or three)?? Whether you want the full tiki bar experience, or just want to sip something yummy surrounded by lush greenery and tiki-esque decor, we’ve got you covered.

Here are 10 amazing tropical-themed bars and cafes to check out this summer.

Havana Vancouver

 

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Inspired by the colours and culture of Havana, Cuba, this restaurant & bar boasts eats and drinks that are just as vibrant. Plus, they have a pretty sizeable patio perfect for a sunny day. Order some ceviche or Spanish mussels for the table and indulge in a refreshing, mezcal-based cocktail. You deserve it.

Where:Ā 1212 Commercial Drive

The Shameful Tiki Room

Honestly, this spot takes the cake when it comes to setting the scene. While the Shameful Tiki Room is a popular destination for post-dinner and pre-club drinks, you certainly wouldn’t know it if you’re just passing by. 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

Juju’s Drink Shack

 

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This is not your average tiki bar. Juju’s Drink Shack used to be located within Published but has now taken over the space formerly occupied by The Whip on Main. The pop-up bar is open every Sunday from 5 pm to midnight and allows guests to customize their drinks with varying amounts of alcohol. Drinks from previous Sundays include the Worker Bee, Practically Floored, Throwing Shade, and much more.

Most recently, it seems the drink shack has rebranded into a snack bar, serving Tom Hanks-inspired drinks. We’re sure the spot has some exciting things in the works for this summer! Definitely worth keeping your eye out.

Where: 209 East 6th Avenue

Tocador

 

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Tocador is another vibrant Cuban kitchen in Mount Pleasant, offering a variety of seasonal dishes and daily happy hour specials, including two tacos for $8, and Guava Spritzes for $9. The interior is full of bright colours, Cuban & beach-inspired decor, and cozy string lights overhead. Plus, they have live music every Sunday at 6 pm, which is certainly a great way to kick off the week.

Where:Ā 2610 Main Street

Honolulu Coffee

While this list is pretty bar-focused, there areĀ also some amazing cafes in Vancouver that fit the tropical-themed bill. Honolulu Coffee is just that, and more. Fresh and flavourful acai bowls that are as delicious as they are beautiful, sustainable, Kona coffee they roast themselves, and Hawaiian-inspired decor that makes you feel like you’re already on a beach.

We recommend going after a run or active day in the sun to load up on nutrients via a Sunshine or Energy bowl, topped with cacao nibs, of course.

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Castaway Bar

This spot in Kits is the epitome of a relaxing neighbourhood bar, with a tropical twist. Their happy hour margs are pretty unbeatable, as are their taco specials and Sunday boozy brunches. Come for a good time and a long time.

Did someone say Catalina Wine Mixer slushie?! We’ll take three.

Where:Ā 3293 West 4th Avenue

Tangent Cafe

 

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While this one isn’t exactly tropical in the literal sense, Tangent Cafe serves as a great casual meet-up spot serving Malaysian eats and signature cocktails that definitely fit the vibe. Mai tais, mojitos, and a variety of mocktails await at this local watering hole.

Where: 2095 Commercial Drive

Beach Ave Bar and GrillĀ 

 

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Located at Vancouver’s waterfront, Beach Ave Bar and Grill has a beautiful patio to offer guests during the warmer months. Visitors can expect mouthwatering eats like their Hickory BBQ Burger, Seafood Chowder, and Cajun Combo Rice Bowl. In terms of drinks, how does a refreshing Beach Blue Margarita sound?? Oh, and $5 brews during their weekday happy hour, of course.

They’ve also got a great lineup for weekend brunch, so this spot definitely warrants multiple visits this summer.

Where: 1012 Beach Avenue #1

And that’s the list, folks! We hope you enjoy a “vacation” and make your getaway to one of these beautiful, tropical-themed spots in Vancouver. Here’s to hoping the weather gets the memo!

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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