6 Twists on the Classic Aperol Spritz to Try in Vancouver This Spring

The sun is shining, and there’s no better pairing for this spring weather than an ice-cold spritz. A classic Aperol is never a bad idea, but for those thirsty for a fresh take on the refreshing Italian cocktail, read on for a list of creative twists on the spritz (say that three times fast) available in Vancouver right now.

Dear Gus 

Photo Credit: @deargussnackbar 

Still new to the scene, the tiny, European-inspired wine and snack bar features a small but finessed menu that—happily—includes a vermouth and amaro spritz. Take advantage of the aperitivo hour from 4 to 5 p.m., if you can snag a seat in the always busy room—it’s an Italian pre-dinner tradition to enjoy a drink and snack to work your appetite up. 

Address: 2040 Quebec St.

Hours: 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesday to Thursday; 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. Friday to Saturday; closed Sunday and Monday 

Parker Rooftop 

Photo Credit: @parkerrooftop 

Head up to the ninth floor of The Parker Hotel to take in the views of Vancouver with The Spritz in hand, a citrus spin with Grey Goose La Poire and Licor 43 topped with prosecco. Or think pink: from 3 to 6 p.m., a strawberry Aperol spritz is only $10 on its happy hour menu. 

Address: 1379 Howe St., 9th Floor

Hours: 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. Monday to Friday, Saturday and Sunday 12 p.m. to 11 p.m. 

Cactus Club Cafe

If you’re planning on spritzing at a Cactus, this is important: find one with a patio. It’ll elevate the experience of drinking the elderflower gin-based Hugo spritz or the delightfully extra frozen Fraperol spritz.

Address: Multiple Locations

Hours: Differs per location 

Ask for Luigi

From the handmade pasta to the wood-lined interiors, a visit to Ask for Luigi is like being transported to a cozy Italian casa. Swap your usual Aperol for a limoncello spritz—the lemon-flavoured liqueur gives it a slightly sweeter finish. 

Address: 305 Alexander St.

Hours: 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Monday to Friday; 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday to Sunday

Mahony’s Tavern 

Image Credit: @mahonystavern

Bask in the sun at the Mahony’s Tavern patio overlooking False Creek, a glass of  the Starlino rosé spritz in hand. The grapefruit aperitivo perfectly blends citrus notes with botanicals for an aromatic finish—perfect for warmer days. Visit between 2 and 5 p.m. to take advantage of the $10 happy hour price. 

Address: 601 Stamps Landing

Hours: 12 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Monday to Thursday; 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 a.m. Friday to Sunday 

Their There

Image Credit: @theirthereyvr

The sister venue to Vanmag‘s 2024 Restaurant of the Year, AnnaLena, Their There welcomes in the early birds for breakfast and lunch. Dishes like chicken and pancakes, eggs benedicts and its daily doughnut specials take centre stage, but a brunch isn’t complete without a mimosa—an Aperol spritz mimosa, to be clear.

Address: 2042 W 4th Ave.

Hours: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday to Sunday