Restaurants

Vancouver Patio Guide 2023: Social

This Insta-worthy rooftop gem on Commercial Drive is your trendy sunshine-soaked tropical escape in the city.

By the Editors /

Best Trendy Hideaway: Social

1812 Commercial Dr.

Dogs allowed: No
Coverage: Yes
Afternoon sun: Yes
Patio reservations: No

Social is a true tropical paradise, complete with chic flamingo and jungle-themed wallpaper, ethereal rattan bucket lightshades and lush cascading vines to inspire eager Instagrammers. The macrame curtains and Pinterest-y wicker swivel chair further serve as influencer bait. Skylight windows and glass sliding doors flood the space with sunshine.

This sky-high oasis delights with local wines, craft beers and inventive cocktails (boozy slushies and vodka-spiked juice boxes, natch). The menu follows suit, featuring island-inspired bites like ahi tuna sushi tacos ($17) and spicy chicken dumplings with kimchi ($16), available at a discount during late-night happy hour (9 p.m. onward).

Social’s patio is a stomping ground for live DJs, 20-somethings with shared party pitchers—try the boozy peach pink vodka lemonade ($31)—content creators doing their thing and brunchers living it up (croque madame [$18], anyone?). The vibe leans more toward party than lounge—Social is an apt name. socialyvr.com

Social’s stylish patio checks two great boxes: it’s one of the few rooftop patios in the city and it has a late-night happy hour food menu—so you can stay fuelled for an all-night party under the stars (or at least until they kick you out).

This story was originally published in the July/August 2023 print issue of Vancouver Magazine—find the digital issue here.