Gastown, a blend of historic charm and contemporary flair, is brimming with diverse drinking venues.
From classic Irish pubs to trendy cocktail lounges, this vibrant neighborhood offers a rich array of options for a memorable night out.
Quick Recommendations: don’t miss L’Abattoir for its craft cocktails and Is That French for a unique wine bar atmosphere.
Dive into our guide to discover Gastown’s finest bars and elevate your next outing.
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1. L’Abattoir
Tucked in Gastown, L’Abattoir is a culinary gem known for its craft cocktails and an award-winning wine program. Ideal for special occasions or classy dates, it offers a range of spirits from Japanese to Scotch and Irish whiskeys.
Their craft cocktails, like the Avocado Gimlet, are a must-try. The menu boasts dishes like Baked Pacific Oysters, Pork Chops, Wild Sockeye Salmon, and Country Lamb, each perfectly complementing the drink selection.
Address: 217 Carrall St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2J2
2. Pidgin
Combining Asian cuisine with French influences, Pidgin in Gastown is a stylish modern spot. It’s renowned for its unique cocktails, such as Down by the Bay, and an extensive selection of sake and beer. The menu includes delicious options like Oyster Shot, Beef Tendons, and Pork Belly Rice Bowl, making it an ideal spot for an evening of drinks and bites.
Tip: The ever-changing Tasting Menu at Pidgin is a definite must-try!
Address: 350 Carrall Street Vancouver, BC V6B 2J3
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3. Gringo
In the heart of Gastown, Gringo is a vibrant, Mexican-themed spot known for its fun atmosphere and neon lights. They offer unique cocktails like the Bourbarita, bursting with watermelon flavour, complemented by a variety of tacos. It’s a great place for a casual, upbeat night out.
Address: 27 Blood Alley Square, Vancouver, BC V6B 0C4
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4. Pourhouse
Located near Gastown’s Steam Clock, Pourhouse is set in a century-old building. It boasts a 38 ft. handcrafted bar and offers an array of drinks, including the Gold Rush Daiquiri, Manhattan, and Rum Old Fashioned. The menu features comfort foods like Fried Chicken, Onion Dip, Truffle Tots, and the signature Pourhouse Burger.
Address: 162 Water Street Vancouver, BC V6B 1B2
5. Clough Club
Near Blood Alley, Clough Club combines a vintage ambiance with modern pub eats and craft drinks. Signature cocktails like the Peacemaker are a highlight, alongside tasty food options such as Crispy Dumplings and the Reuben Dog. The bar’s old-time charm makes it a cozy spot for a night out.
What to order: The Peacemaker, Old Fashioned, Crispy Dumplings, Reuben Dog, Foot Long Dog
Address: 212 Abbott Street, Vancouver, BC V6B 2K8
6. Guilt & Co
Known for its live music and prime food, Guilt & Co. offers an intimate setting in Gastown. The Chef’s Feature Mac & Four Cheese is a standout dish, along with Popcorn for snacking. Their Meat & Cheese board is perfect for sharing in this energetic and entertaining venue.
What to order: Mac & Four Cheese, Popcorn, Meat & Cheese board, Truffle Confit Duck Sandwich, Paloma
Address: 1 Alexander Street, Underground, Vancouver, BC V6A 1B2
7. Alibi Room
Situated where Gastown and Railtown meet, Alibi Room is a cozy pub known for its extensive beer list and elevated pub food. Their Moules Frites and Pork Belly Bites are particularly popular, pairing well with the 50 taps of local and international craft beers.
What to order: Moules Frites, Pork Belly Bites, Poutine
Address: 157 Alexander Street, Vancouver, BC V6A 1B8
8. Is That French
A recent addition to Blood Alley, Is That French specializes in Pacific Northwest cuisine with a wine bar atmosphere. Savor dishes like Sockeye Salmon Crudo, Drunken Manilla Clam, and Smoked Rainbow Trout Dip. It’s an elegant spot for wine enthusiasts and foodies alike.
What to order: Sockeye Salmon Crudo, Drunken Manilla Clam, Smoked Rainbow Trout Dip
Address: 45 Blood Alley Square, Vancouver, BC V5B 0C4
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9. Local Public Eatery Gastown
Local Gastown is a vibrant neighborhood bar, perfect for a lively night out. With a wide selection of draft beer and wine on tap, it’s a bustling spot, especially on weekends. The cheese pierogies are a favourite, and the Chablis is highly recommended.
Address: 3 Alexander St, Vancouver, BC V6A 1B2
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10. Steamworks Brew Pub
A veteran of Gastown’s beer scene, Steamworks Brew Pub is renowned for its steam-produced beers. The 10 Tap Taster is a great way to sample different beers, and the food menu offers a variety of choices, from chicken wings to pizza, in a lively and welcoming setting.
Address:: 375 Water St, Vancouver, BC V6B 1B8
That wraps up our list of the Best Cocktail Bars to hit up in buzzing and vibrant Gastown. We hope you visit them all and have the best time.
Looking for more drink spots and food spots in the city? Well take a peek of our picks of the best cocktail lounges and best restaurants in Vancouver!
How We Create Our “Best” Lists
All Noms Magazine’s “best” lists are created using multiple factors and signals to help readers find the best restaurants, things to do, and places to stay at. Some of these factors and signs include personal experiences, correspondence with locals, and compiling experiences from review sites.
Each list is also created to be balanced (in terms of price, cuisine type, ambiance, and more) as possible. This means that the lists are not specifically created in ranking order. You should be comfortable picking from any of the spots on the list and generally have a good time. But of course, YMMV (your mileage may vary) and everyone may have different experiences/palates.