Cozy pubs for a low-key night out in Vancouver
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]
The Fringe Cafe
3124 Broadway W, Vancouver, BC V6K 2H3Kitsilano’s answer to Cheers, The Fringe Café has served regulars and one-time visitors since 1990. Manager Tom Graham has overseen the narrow, fairy-light-lit pub for more than 10 years. Perhaps it’s the “lived-in” feeling, or the paraphernalia and trinkets strewn on the walls and above the bar, which makes the Fringe Café so welcoming. Customers can choose from more than 30 scotches, a wide selection of local and international beers, or one of the $5 drink specials. Regardless of where you live, I recommend thinking of Fringe Café as your go-to local.
The Narrow Lounge
1898 Main St, Vancouver, BC V5T 3B7One of Vancouver’s worst kept secrets, The Narrow Lounge is accessible via a side door off Main Street and down a set of graffiti-scrawled stairs. Here underground, an intimate space with room for no more than 30 people greet the brave and in-the-know. Leather booths, dark lighting, an LP player, and antique paintings of Old Vancouver create a snug atmosphere. The drinks list is extensive, from cocktails to wine to beer, while a limited menu of hot and cold food will prevent you from having to leave this perfect burrow for hours (I recommend the nachos). A winter essential.
Pat's Pub & Brewhouse
403 Hastings St E, Vancouver, BC V6A 1P6One of Vancouver’s worst kept secrets, The Narrow Lounge is accessible via a side door off Main Street and down a set of graffiti-scrawled stairs. Here underground, an intimate space with room for no more than 30 people greet the brave and in-the-know. Leather booths, dark lighting, an LP player, and antique paintings of Old Vancouver create a snug atmosphere. The drinks list is extensive, from cocktails to wine to beer, while a limited menu of hot and cold food will prevent you from having to leave this perfect burrow for hours (I recommend the nachos). A winter essential.
The Ouisi Bistro
3014 Granville St, Vancouver, BC V6H 3J8Also a restaurant that serves the finest New Orleans food this side of the 49th parallel, Ouisi Bistro nevertheless qualifies in all major pub categories – from the candlelit ambiance, to friendly staff who are attentive without rushing you, to the perfect bar to prop your elbows upon while you sip a locally brewed pint. Enjoy snacks such as alligator bites or cornbread under the watchful gaze of painted jazz legends, or sit in a dark corner soaking in the live jazz every Sunday evening.
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