5 Buzzy Bars and Pubs in Vancouver

A stop at one of these fine establishments—many serving pints alongside deep-fried bites—will never let you down.

Alibi Room

If you can remember how many decades this “modern tavern” has been in operation, you’re older than you might admit to. Still one of the best live music venues in the city, it’s become more famous for its 50 taps featuring local and imported craft beers, as well as for the ethically raised and sourced dishes from chef Greg Armstrong. (The brunch is one of the best-kept secrets in town.)

157 Alexander St., alibi.ca

The American

Bring the kids here for an after-school reset. While the little ones entertain themselves with arcade games galore, you can enjoy a Bronx Disco or something off the tap, and chow down on Monarch burgers (without doubt some of the best burger action in Vancouver). Did we mention the monthly Simpsons trivia night?

926 Main St., theamerican.ca

Bells and Whistles

The newest brainchild from the same team that brought us Wildebeest, Pizzeria Bufala and Lucky Taco, this new “beer hall” in the Fraserhood boasts a bright, airy space and a seriously good taps list with 19 rotating local brews. Standout eats include the vanilla-blueberry-twist soft serve and the “fancy” burger, with thyme-roasted mushrooms, goat cheese and truffle-basil aioli.

3296 Fraser St., bellsandwhistlesyvr.ca

The Irish Heather

Some days call for whisk(e)y and nothing but. In such dire circumstances, the granddaddy of Vancouver’s gastropubs is the place to come for a shot or three of Old Pulteney 1980 and a corned beef sammy. With one of the most extensive single-malt lists in the city, your sorrows will be washed away before you can figure out how to pronounce Bruichladdich.

210 Carrall St., irishheather.com

Score on Davie 

How can you not include a place that sells caesars topped with burgers, dogs, steaks, chicken and onion rings? Despite the kitsch factor, this popular watering hole is just as well known for its decent draft list and hearty comfort menu. Plus, the cauliflower wings are rather tasty.

1262 Davie St. scoreondavie.com