Liam AndersonSure, Vancouver has its share of swanky rooftop lounges and bustling dance halls. But it also had those hidden gems—the speakeasies and secret bars—tucked away in the nooks and crannies.
We’re talking about bars behind unmarked doors, in basements under a coffee shop, or even behind a bookshelf—if you know the right book to tug. So read on, as I’ve listed the best secret bars you absolutely must add to your Vancouver bucket list.
Speakeasy On Granville
Website: http://speakeasyongranville.com/
Address: 921 Granville St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1L3, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-685-5531
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 10 AM to 2 AM
- Friday to Sunday – 9 AM to 2 AM
Speakeasy on Granville is full of roaring 20s charm, tucked away behind an unassuming Kings Head Pub door. You’ll find a menu brimming with era-inspired cocktails and modern twists on classic Prohibition-era drinks.
The atmosphere at Speakeasy on Granville is always lively but never rowdy. It’s the perfect place to pop in for a late-night drink or a pre-dinner cocktail.
| Pro tip: Always check their website or social media pages for updates. Don’t miss out on their weekly promotion called ‘Whiskey Wednesday,’ where they offer rare whiskies at discounted prices. |
The Shameful Tiki Room
Website: http://shamefultikiroom.com/vancouver/
Address: 4362 Main St, Vancouver, BC V5V 3P9, Canada
Contact details: [email protected]
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 5 PM to 12 AM
- Friday to Saturday – 5 PM to 1 AM
The Shameful Tiki Room is a South Pacific-inspired escape right in the heart of Vancouver. Their extensive rum-based drink menu served in exotic glassware and tropical decor, will instantly transport you to a Polynesian paradise.
It’s not just the drinks that make this place special because their themed nights and special performances elevate the tiki experience. And let’s not forget their mystery ‘bowl’—served engulfed in flames, it’s a spectacle in itself!
| Pro tip: They don’t take reservations, so try to get there early, especially on the weekends. And be sure to order the Mystery Bowl. It’s a fan favourite and perfect for sharing! |
Cantina 189
Website: http://www.cantina189.com/
Address: 324 W Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V6B 1K6, Canada
Contact details: https://www.cantina189.com/contact
Operating hours:
- Monday, Thursday, Sunday – 5 PM to 11 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 5 PM to 1 AM
Located in the bustling Yaletown district, Cantina 189 holds its ground among the city’s well-known night spots. As the name suggests, this Mexican-themed bar delivers the cantina experience with an extra splash of style.
At Cantina 189, the food hits as hard as the drinks, paired with Latin American music and periodic live performances. You’d be missing out if you didn’t try their tacos, ceviches, and guacamole.
| Pro tip: Don’t forget to try their tequila-tasting flight. And don’t miss out on their Taco Tuesday deals—perfect for a night out with friends! |
Bagheera
Website: https://www.instagram.com/whereisbagheera/?hl=en
Address: 518 Main St, Vancouver, BC V6A 2T9, Canada
Contact details: N/A
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 5 PM to 1 AM
- Friday and Saturday – 5 PM to 2 AM
- Sunday – 5 PM to 12 AM
Bagheera is a striking mix of urban chic and industrial grunge. It might look like a warehouse outside, but inside, it’s a world far removed from the usual.
Their drink offerings are truly unique, from rotating local craft beers on tap to their infamous Negroni made with locally distilled gin. You can even pair your drink with one of their small food offerings, and the vibe is A1.
| Pro tip: Make sure you keep an eye out for their rotating tap list, which showcases the best of local craft breweries. Their Negroni is dynamite, but heads up: they only serve it during Negroni week. |
The Keefer Bar
Website: http://www.thekeeferbar.com/
Address: 135 Keefer St, Vancouver, BC V6A 1X3, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-688-1961
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 4 PM to 1 AM
- Friday and Saturday – 4 PM to 2 AM
The Keefer Bar blends elements of traditional Chinese medicine into their innovative and sensory-pleasing cocktails. It’s a harmonious juxtaposition of Vancouver’s old and new, where antique artifacts sit alongside a contemporary mural.
Here, the staff not only knows their stuff, they present it with an air of mystique that adds to the allure. Acts like cabaret dancers, burlesque performers, and live music elevate the ambience, effecting a sultry, avant-garde vibe.
| Pro tip: Make sure you try the “Double Happiness” cocktail; it’s a crowd-pleaser. And the best time to visit is during their happy hour, when the concoctions come at a lower price but with the same great taste. |
Grapes & Soda
Website: http://www.grapesandsoda.ca/
Address: 1541 W 6th Ave, Vancouver, BC V6J 1R1, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-336-2456
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Saturday – 5 PM to 11 PM
Grapes & Soda is a whimsical and charming watering hole nestled alongside its renowned sibling, Farmer’s Apprentice. The decor, with its brass bar, exposed brick walls, and cosy banquette seating, will make you feel like you’re in a magical hideaway.
Their menu boasts a diverse selection of handpicked wines, locally sourced beers, and imaginative cocktails. Let’s not forget about the food, because their delightful small plates are perfect for sharing, with flavours that perfectly complement their drinks.
| Pro tip: Don’t forget to check out their weekly ‘Wine Therapy’ events, and don’t miss the chance to try their homemade kombucha during happy hour. |
Key Party
Website: https://narrowgroup.ca/project/key-party/
Address: 2305 Main St, Vancouver, BC V5T 3C9, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-708-0881
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 5 PM to 1 AM
- Friday and Saturday – 5 PM to 2 AM
If you’re in the mood for some retro glamour, Key Party is your scene. Located behind a discreet façade posing as a 1970s accounting office, this speakeasy-style lounge will make you feel like you’ve travelled back in time.
A kitschy yet sophisticated atmosphere awaits you here, with plush velvet seating, amber-hued lighting, and funky decor oozing vintage charm. You better order one of their ‘mystery drinks”—you’re sure to be in for a delectable surprise!
| Pro tip: Their punch bowls are perfect for groups, and if you’re feeling peckish, try their signature chicken and waffle dish. |
Hello Goodbye Bar
Website: https://www.hellogoodbyebar.com/
Address: 1120 Hamilton St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2S2, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-669-6292
Operating hours:
- Thursday – 10 PM to 2 AM
- Friday and Saturday – 10 PM to 3 AM
Hello Goodbye Bar is tucked right below Hustle Pizza on Hamilton Street. The carefully curated drink menu here sets it apart, offering a creative array of cocktails made with local ingredients and top-quality spirits.
The fabled crowd-favourite, Take Me Home Tonight, is an absolute must-try. The atmosphere only gets better as the night progresses, with DJ sets making the place come alive and encouraging late-night dancing.
| Pro tip: Try to drop by on Thursday nights when they host ‘Hello Thursdays’ with drink specials and guest DJs to start your weekend early. |
The Narrow Lounge
Website: https://narrowgroup.ca/project/the-narrow/
Address: 1898 Main St, Vancouver, BC V5T 3B9, Canada
Contact details: +1 778-737-5206
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 5 PM to 1 AM
- Friday and Saturday – 5 PM to 2 AM
Located near Main Street, The Narrow Lounge has the ultimate hidden entrance—it’s a hole in the wall. Once inside, the dim lighting, eclectic furnishings, and low-key atmosphere will make you feel like you’ve stumbled upon an underground secret.
The Narrow Lounge offers a solid and well-priced selection of classic cocktails, craft beer, and wine. When it comes to snacking, their tasty tacos, creative hot dogs, and housemade potato chips are bound to hit the spot.
| Pro tip: Be sure to taste their kimchi nachos and keep your eyes out for their pop-up shops and theme nights. |
Laowai
Website: https://www.laowai.ca/
Address: 251 E Georgia St, Vancouver, BC V6A 1Z6, Canada
Contact details: https://www.laowai.ca/html/contact.html
Operating hours:
- Monday – 12 AM to 12 PM
- Tuesday – 12 PM to 12 AM
- Wednesday to Saturday – 5 PM to 12 AM
- Sunday – 12 AM to 12 PM, 5 PM to 12 AM
Laowai, which is nestled in the back of the acclaimed JUKE Fried Chicken, breaks all conventions. The chic décor, with its crimson lighting, Asian-inspired artwork, and leather seating, offers an inviting atmosphere.
They offer innovative, Asian-style cocktails that boast daring flavour combinations. Their drinks, such as the Sichuan margarita and the Emperor’s old-fashioned, are all crafted with intention, and each sip will be a pleasant surprise.
| Pro tip: Make sure to have a chat with the bartenders; they’re knowledgeable and passionate about their craft. |
The Stock Room
Website: https://www.freehouse.co/locations/stock-room?utm_source=google&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=gmb
Address: 1144 Homer St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2X6, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-609-0901
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday, Sunday – 4 PM to 1 AM
- Friday and Saturday – 4 PM to 2 AM
The Stock Room is hidden away behind an industrial freezer door in Yaletown’s popular Yaletown Distilling Company. Their drinks are a testament to the imagination.
Their mixologists craft cocktails inspired by different regions, and each drink promises to take your taste buds on an adventure. All these can be paired with their delicious small plates inspired by global cuisine.
| Pro tip: Be sure to ask your bartender about their weekly cocktail specials. And don’t leave without sampling their famous New York Sour. |
Guilt & Co
Website: http://guiltandcompany.com/
Address: 1 Alexander Street, Underground, Vancouver, BC V6A 1B2, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-288-1704
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Wednesday – 6 PM to 12 AM
- Thursday – 6 PM to 1 AM
- Friday and Saturday – 6 PM to 2 AM
Guilt & Co. is located in the cellar of a historic building in Gastown. Don’t let its underground location fool you; once you descend the staircase, you’ll find an inviting space with brick walls, whimsical art, and the sound of smooth jazz filling the air.
What sets Guilt & Co. apart is their unrivalled live entertainment scene. Drinks are just as impressive, with an extensive list of craft beers, wines, and inventive cocktails, each presented uniquely and delightfully.
| Pro tip: Try to get there early on show nights to secure your spot. And while you’re in, try their homemade Sangria—it’s simply divine! |
The 515 Bar
Website: http://www.the515bar.ca/
Address: 521 Seymour St, Vancouver, BC V6B 3H6, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-428-8226
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 4 PM to 11 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 4 PM to 12 AM
Over by the city’s bustling entertainment district, you’ll find the charismatic and endearing 515 Bar. Part of the OPUS Hotel, this bar carries a distinct allure, from its transforming mood to its eclectic crowd.
Their food offerings, though small, pack a lot of flavor and offer a delightful pairing with your choice of drink. Of course, The 515 Bar prides itself on its extensive selection of world-class wines, local and international craft beers, and a menu of vibrant cocktails.
| Pro tip: Don’t miss their Happy Hour special from 5:15 p.m. to close on weekdays, and try their famous ‘OPUS Caesar’ cocktail. |
Clough Club
Website: https://www.freehouse.co/locations/clough-club?utm_source=google&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=gmb
Address: 212 Abbott St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2K8, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-558-1581
Operating hours:
- Tuesday – 4 PM to 12 AM
- Wednesday to Thursday, Sunday – 5 PM to 1 AM
- Friday and Saturday – 5 PM to 2 AM
Clough Club might be hidden away but its charisma is hard to keep a secret. Walking into the Clough Club feels like stepping into a nostalgic dreamscape, with its vintage memorabilia, comfy seating, and warm, glowing ambience.
Cocktails here truly steal the limelight; they’re crafted with finesse and deliver a delightful mix of unexpected flavours. And let’s not forget about the food, featuring tasty small plates like pulled pork sliders and empanadas that satisfy those cravings.
| Pro tip: Be sure to visit during “Clough Club Sundays” for tailor-made cocktails and excellent live music. |
Gran Reserva
Website: https://www.bodegaonmain.ca/granreserva/
Address: 1014 Main St, Vancouver, BC V6A 2W1, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-565-8815
Operating hours:
- Friday and Saturday – 5 PM to 2 AM
Gran Reserva is a gem tucked behind the famous Bodega on Main. Step through a secret door, and you’ll find yourself in a rustic Mediterranean oasis with a flair for elegant drama.
This place boasts unique, biodynamic Spanish wines, a delicious tapas menu, and a collection of hard-to-find sherries. It’s the perfect place to gather with friends to share food, drink, and stories in an intimate setting that oozes allure and intrigue.
| Pro tip: Make sure you try their Patatas Bravas and pair it with a glass of Albariño. And if you’re lucky, you might catch one of their flamenco performances. |
