Where to get a damn good cocktail in Vancouver?
We have all been there, the bright flashes of the table next to you vlogging their drink order killed your vibe. Sure, the drink looks fun but it also screams headache with the sparkling theatrics, bright colours and generally pretty high price tag. Now look, we also love getting our phones out to document the Insta-Worthy drinks but do they always taste that good? If you want a quality cocktail with substance and style – start with our list below of a few of our favourites, but of course we are a little biased because we like to drink where our friends work. It’s an industry thing…
The Keefer Bar, 135 Keefer St.
The Keefer Bar, located in Vancouver’s Chinatown, is an apothecary-inspired cocktail bar known for its dark, intimate atmosphere. Ranked the 2nd best bar in Canada for three years straight, it offers over 25 creative cocktails that highlight expert craftsmanship and unique flavors. Recently celebrating their 15-year anniversary it’s the perfect time to pop in for a drink.
PS: Be on the lookout for their up-and-coming restaurant June coming to Cambie Street in early Spring 2025 – we personally can’t wait.
Our faves:
Kanju – Nikka gin, shiso yellow chartreuse, blanc vermouth blend
Overnight Crush – El Gobernador Pisco, gin, rosé vermouth, lychee cream soda, elderflower foam
Forager’s Martini – Botanist gin, dry vermouth blend, hydrosol, served 20 below zero, with house pickled vegetables, olives, lemon twist
Prophecy, Rosewood Hotel Georgia.
Prophecy, located beneath the Rosewood Hotel Georgia, is a cocktail bar marked only by a side door, illuminated by the glowing design of a rabbit above. Step through, and a staircase of mirrors beckons you downward, transporting you into a hidden underground world. Led by Jeff Savage (IG-@fatherofcups), World Class Bartender of the year 2019 and Diageo World Class Runner Up 2019. This cocktail list is curated by a champion and is accompanied by a flavour legend to guide you toward expertly crafted drinks. This guide doesn’t just serve as a menu – it’s your ticket to a new experience.
Our faves:
Canadian Shield – Michter’s Rye, Oloroso Sherry, candy cap mushroom, cordyceps, hojicha, black cardamom
Wabi Sabi Martini – Redistilled matcha gin, hinoki, aromatized wine
Internal Flame – Suntory Toki Japanese Whisky, Dry Curacao, red sandalwood, orange, egg white
Grapes & Soda, 1541 W 6th Ave
Next we take you across the Granville Bridge to Grapes & Soda, this small but mighty cocktail bar opened in 2015 and was one of the first bars to specialize in natural wine. Their back bar boasts spirits from all over the world from premium japanese saki, mexican liquors to a mix of local small batch spirits. Recently featured on The World’s 50 Best Cocktail bar, if you can snag a spot at the bar you’re in luck.
Our faves:
Uguisu – Japanese whisky, sake, lemon verbena, green chartreuse, osmanthus, yuzu.
Popocatepetl – Tequila, Mezcal, cachaça, coconut, chili, tonic, pineapple, makrut lime, kefir
Big Jet Plane – Bourbon, jasmine, bitter grapefruit syrup, aperol, unicum, egg white
Meo Chinatown, 265 East Pender Street
Back to Chinatown, we transport you to the sexy seventies at Meo. Nestled beneath its Michelin-starred sister restaurant, Kissa Tanto, Meo offers an immersive, indulgent experience where flavours both surprise and delight. The newest bar on our list, having opened in March 2024, Meo’s expertly crafted cocktails, knowledgeable bartenders, and 1970s Hong Kong love motel vibe make it an instant classic. With it’s impeccable design and daring approach to mixology, we’re certain this spot will be a favourite for years to come.
Our Faves:
Appletini – Shochu, Calvados, Sweet Pickled Crabapple, Lemon balm, brown butter
Matcha Highball – Tanqueray gin, matcha, banana milk, lime, tonka bean soda
Spicy Margarita – Altos Blanco tequila, melon milk, lime, agave
