The Best Bars On Commercial Drive, Vancouver

Food & drinks
Food & drinks | Photo by Jay Wennington on Unsplash
Rachelle Menn

Canada’s Vancouver, BC is a fun and picturesque city where North American, British and Asian cultures merge together. Positioned in between the Pacific Ocean and the Coast Mountains, the natural beauty and outdoor activities make Vancouver a popular tourist destination. However, one area that has so far remained relatively untouched by outsiders and belongs exclusively to the locals is ‘the Drive.’ Commercial Drive is mostly just one street, with a bit of the surrounding areas included. However, it is packed with shopping, funky restaurants and fun festivals. With a thriving nightlife, check out some of Commercial Drive’s best bars. Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips, compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips.

St. Augustine’s

Named after the patron saint of brewers, St. Augustine’s bar supports a number of local British Columbian brewers. With at least three dozen available beers, St. Augustine’s beer list is impressive. Additionally, there is a live marker that tracks how much of each beer is left. Since all these beers are from small breweries from around the area, many of them haven’t been seen before. This is where the beer paddle offer is great as it provides the opportunity to sample many different types of beers. The food is general pub food and pizzas, but one of the most exceptional items is the fried chicken. There are numerous TVs and while the place is pretty busy every day, St. Augustine’s fills up very fast and becomes absolutely crazy when the local hockey team, the Vancouver Canucks, is playing.

The Reef

Jazz

From the decorations to the food, the Caribbean influences of The Reef can be felt all throughout the establishment. The art on the walls and the furniture have a Caribbean feel, and the menu is extensive with many choices from the Caribbean region. The johnny cakes are particularly note-worthy and even come complimentary for customers. The homemade hot sauce is also not something to miss. The Reef offers an extensive selection of unique beers and many craft cocktails. The patio extending onto Commercial Drive is a great place to relax and enjoy a drink or two.

The Charlatan

The Charlatan is a self-proclaimed gastro-pub, so a solid combination of food and alcohol is expected. The Charlatan has a great lunch and dinner menu, but its the appetizers that are of note. If at The Charlatan, the tuna bites are a must-try. The best part of The Charlatan are the over a dozen or so draft beers. The Charlatan also always has a different drink specials on rotation as well as food discounts. The Charlatan also boasts of one of the best patios on Commercial Drive which is ideal on a nice day.

Tangent Café

Tangent Café is a beloved and vibrant establishment located on Commercial Drive in Vancouver, Canada. Known for its warm and inviting atmosphere, this neighborhood gem has been a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike since its opening.

At Tangent Café, the focus is on fostering a sense of community and celebrating the arts. The café is not only a great place to enjoy delicious food and drinks but also a hub for live music performances. With its intimate stage, Tangent Café hosts an impressive lineup of talented musicians, making it a favorite destination for music enthusiasts seeking a laid-back and enjoyable night out.

Grandview Lanes Pub

Grandview Lanes Pub is a popular and laid-back pub located in the Grandview-Woodland neighborhood of Vancouver, just a stone’s throw away from Commercial Drive. This welcoming pub has been a staple in the area for years, drawing in both locals and visitors with its friendly atmosphere and traditional pub charm.

As part of Grandview Lanes Bowling Centre, the pub offers a unique setting where patrons can enjoy a casual drink or a delicious meal while watching bowlers strike it up on the nearby lanes. The combination of good food, refreshing drinks, and the lively sound of rolling bowling balls creates a fun and spirited ambiance that keeps guests coming back for more.

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