Game on: Joints for the Vancouver Canucks pre-game grub
The neighbourhood around the Canucks’ home base, Roger’s Arena, has always been kind of a no-man’s-land — its nickname “Crosstown” fits it well. But luckily, of late, there has been no shortage of great pre-game hangouts to grab a pint and an early dinner before the puck drops. Here are some great local options.
Back Fourty
118 Robson St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2A6The sports bar atmosphere as well as the very reasonably priced food will put you in the mood for live hockey. Who needs to spend $20 on a plain foot-long hotdog and a Kokanee at the arena when you can get deluxe burgers, buttermilk fried-to-perfection chicken, blackened steak or BBQ ribs plus decent draught for the same price? Just steps from the rink, this is a great bet for some pre-game fuel. Come early — you’re not the only ones to have this idea.
Shark Club Sports Bar & Grill
180 Georgia St W, Vancouver, BC V6B 4P4Newly renovated, the classic Canucks hangout has upped its game and can retain its title of “premier sports bar.” Hugely popular with hockey fans who aren’t lucky enough to have tickets to the game, its massive bank of televisions and lively atmosphere will get you pumped before you head over to Roger’s. Classic pub fare is on offer as well as beer and wine with specials every day of the week. Its proximity to the stadium means that you’ll never miss the puck drop.
Chambar Restaurant
568 Beatty St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2L3If you’re impressing clients with seats in the corporate box, don’t forget that the schmoozing begins well before the singing of the national anthem. Reserve an early table at Chambar, just north of the stadium on Beatty for excellent cocktails and delicious dishes like plump moules-frites or lamb tagine. By the time the cheque comes, you may have already won the contract.
The Pint
455 Abbott St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2L2From the décor to the menu, this large and boisterous pub on the corner of Pender and Abbott screams sports bar. With food and beer specials every night, massive “team platters” to share with your buddies and 40 different ways to have your wings, The Pint will ensure you don’t need that ill-advised third period nacho-cheese plate. And even though you’re heading to the Canucks game, you can bet every other NHL game will be on one of their many large-screen TVs.
Bismarck The
526 Abbott St, Vancouver, BC V6B 6N7Possibly the closest to the arena, as the crow flies, Bismarck is a welcome addition to this previously unremarkable area. Located beside the International Village on Abbott Street, these guys are offering a high-quality dining experience in a fresh and modern environment. Standard pub fare is elevated by things like sausage, marinades and BBQ sauce all made in house, as well as brioche buns for your burgers, also house-made. Menu items like “game-day chili” show that their priorities — sports — are the same as yours.
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