Happy hour in Vancouver, BC

If Vancouver’s bar scene is too social or slick for your night-out requirements, these cozy nooks offer a relaxing alternative, and they’re the closest you can come to a true European pub experience on this side of the Atlantic. Check out these laid-back locals for a solo pint or a low-key get-together with friends. [Photo credit: iStock.com/gpointstudio]

Things can get chilly above the 49th parallel. Thankfully, Vancouver’s restaurants and bars are heating up with flavourful cocktails inspired by South American tradition: think Cuba libres, pisco sours, caipirinhas and classic margaritas. Here are a few local venues that serve up drinks with Latin liquors and tasty food from below the equator. [Photo courtesy of Cuchillo]

Izakayas first arrived in Vancouver in the early 90s and the lively Japanese-style pubs have been a staple in the city ever since. Some joints stick to tradition, while local chains such as Guu and Hapa Izakaya serve up dishes influenced by the West Coast culinary scene. These Vancouver izakayas will have you shouting “Mou Hitotsu!” (one more!) thanks to their crowd-pleasing food and drinks. [Photo credit: everydayAnalog]

With its award-winning, internationally renowned bartenders and reputation for innovative drinks, Vancouver is blessed with a vibrant cocktail culture. The beating heart of its shaken-and-stirred empire is in Gastown, where you’ll find any number of excellent bars to enjoy some seriously delicious and thoughtfully crafted cocktails. Although it’s hard to play favourites, here are a few of my can’t-miss cocktail spots.

Every oyster lover has their own reason for shelling out for these savoury treats: for some they’re a delicacy, a little bit of a self-indulgent treat, for others, they’re an aphrodisiac. My love of oysters comes from a little stand selling them by the shuck (Kumi’s are the best if you didn’t know) and has grown to an ongoing search for the best spots in Vancouver to enjoy these little and addictive ocean pearls.

Marpole may be a bit removed from the rest of Vancouver’s busy nightlife scene, but there’s still plenty of action happening down by the Fraser River. From brewery-fresh ales to breathtaking waterfront views, here’s just a sampling of what you can catch down in the Southside. [Photo credit: iStock/piskunov]

Whether you call it Hastings-Sunrise or the East Village, you can find plenty of nighttime fun in the neighbourhood right beside the PNE. Whether it’s hoisting a mug when the house plays your favourite metal jam or swigging cheap suds between bites from a footlong, here are some top spots to grab a beer the next time you’re deep in the Eastside. [Photo credit: iStock/izuesek]

Fraserhood is one of Vancouver’s most rapidly changing neighbourhoods, with the area surrounding Fraser and Kingsway offering a wide array of spots to pop in for a pint. Whether it’s a gastropub pouring Vancouver craft beers or a longtime favourite that offers cheap drinks and a chance to be a karaoke star, these are some of Fraserhood’s greatest spots for some suds. [Photo credit: iStock/Silvrshootr]

This historic neighbourhood, once known for its industrial business and warehouse buildings, is now a fashionable destination for food and drink. With modern lounges, casual brew pubs and award-winning eateries, these restaurants are among the best places in the city to enjoy a pint of beer and try some of Vancouver’s most innovative foods. [Photo courtesy of Yaletown Brewing Co.]

Whoever named it Commercial Drive might’ve had the right idea at the time, but this main shopping thoroughfare has morphed into a beer drinker’s paradise deserving of a new title. Hops Avenue? Barleymalt Way? Bet you can come up with more.

One of the most densely populated and diverse neighbourhoods in Vancouver is the West End – home to long-time residents, young families, international students and one of Canada’s largest LGBTQ communities. As such, there is no shortage of casual places to eat and drink in this established beach-side 'hood. Take in the scenery while sipping on a beer at any one of these bars or pubs.

Show your Pride! Until August 6th, order a delicious Pride-themed cocktail from participating Vancouver bars and restaurants; partial proceeds from each themed drink will be donated to the Dr. Peter Centre, which provides compassionate HIV care for British Columbians. Here are a few of our picks of participating places to find a delightful Pride-themed cocktail. [Photo courtesy of Boulevard Kitchen & Oyster Bar]