Liam AndersonLive music while dining should be a vibe—fun, chill, and totally worth the bill. But let’s be honest, that’s never always the case. I’ve had my fair share of experience with restaurants where the music is so bad it makes you want to run for the hills.
Once, I sat through a band mangling 80s metal covers so badly I could barely hear myself think, let alone enjoy my dinner.
And because I didn’t want anyone to go through what I endured, I scoured the city to find the best restaurants with live music.
After some trial and (ear-piercing) errors, I’ve found the spots in Vancouver that truly hit the right note.
From smooth jazz to enchanting piano performances, these are my top picks for dinner with a side of great tunes.
1. Frankie’s Jazz Club
– Media credit: frankiesjazz
Address: 755 Beatty St
Hours:
- Thursday & Sunday – 6:30 PM to 11 PM
- Friday & Saturday – 6:30 PM to 12 AM
Phone: +1 604-688-6368
Price: $$
Stepping inside Frankie’s Jazz Club, you’re instantly transported to the era of smoky speakeasies and intimate jazz. The seating is cozy, with small tables and booths clustered around the stage.
Every week, they host a mix of rising stars and local favorites. They play soulful jazz and blues that will have you swaying along, lost in the moment.
The food is pretty good too—fine Italian cuisine. When I come here, I usually order Frankie’s pizza besides enjoying their full-service cocktail haven. Its blend of mozzarella, tomato sauce, and capicollo ham makes it worth every penny.
| Pro Tip: Check out their “After Dark” series on Fridays and Saturdays. It’s curated by Tim Reinert of Infidels Jazz and starts at 11 PM. You’ll want to arrive early, as it’s walk-ins only. |
2. Pourhouse Restaurant
– Media credit: porhouse
Address: 162 Water St
Hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 11:30 AM to 12 AM
- Friday & Saturday 11:30 AM to 1 AM
Phone: +1 604-568-7022
Price: $$$
Pourhouse Restaurant isn’t just a place to grab a bite; it’s an experience. The moment you walk in, you’re enveloped in a sophisticated, classic speakeasy vibe.
The music is a big part of the atmosphere here – a rotating lineup of talented local musicians playing everything from soulful jazz to bluesy rock.
Foodwise, the menu is a delicious mix of classic comfort food with a modern edge. Their Pourhouse Burger is a must-try. It comes with dry-aged beef, confit pork belly, and aged cheddar.
| Pro Tip: For great deals on the menu, come during happy hour (3-6 PM and 10 PM until late). I normally grab their addicting truffle tots and any of their draft beers. |
3. Guilt & Co
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Address: 1 Alexander Street, Underground
Hours:
- Sunday to Wednesday – 6 PM to 12 AM
- Thursday – 6 PM to 1 AM
- Friday & Saturday – 6 PM to 2 AM
Phone: +1 604-288-1704
Price: $$
Guilt & Company makes you feel like you’re in on a secret. Their cool, New York-inspired vibe is both edgy and inviting. I always try to get here early to snag a good spot because it’s first come, first served.
Live music is always a highlight—think everything from mellow jazz to soulful funk, with a touch of bluegrass and R&B thrown in for good measure. It’s the kind of music that sets the mood, and I always find new artists to add to my playlist.
And the food? It’s all made in-house in their tiny, two-person kitchen.
Their BBQ pulled pork sandwich is a personal favorite—the juicy, slow-cooked pork is piled high on a brioche bun with grilled pineapple, jalepeño, and cilantro aioli. It’s sweet, spicy, and savory.
They also have an awesome selection of beers on tap, wine, bubbly, cocktails, and more.
| Pro Tip: This is a 19+ establishment, so leave the little ones at home. |
4. East is East
– Media credit: eastiseastrestaurant
Address: 4433 Main St
Hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 12 PM to 10 PM
- Friday & Saturday – 12 PM to 10:30 PM
Phone: +1 604-565-4401
Price: $$
Every night at East is East, the stage comes alive with a rotating lineup of world-class musicians from all over the globe.
You’ll hear traditional instruments from India, Iran, Romania, and more. I especially love their Wednesday night classical and world music on piano and their Sunday classical Persian music.
Their menu takes you along the Silk and Spice Road. Their signature Silk Route Feast tasting menu is a must-try. It comes with three main dishes: soup, salad, cold mezze. It also includes boulani, naan, and a mix of Afghan and basmati rice.
| Pro Tip: There’s a small patronage fee of $3 per person on Thursdays and Sundays and $4 per person on Fridays and Saturdays, which goes directly to the performers. |
5. The Heatley
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Address: 696 E Hastings St
Hours:
- Sunday to Wednesday – 4 PM to 12 AM
- Thursday & Friday – 4 PM to 1 AM
- Saturday 12 PM to 1 AM
Phone: +1 604-336-3958
Price: $$
This ultra-hip and uber-cool craft pub is the perfect place to grab a bite and listen to live music. I love their “Stringband Tunes Day” on Tuesdays when incredibly talented musicians play bluegrass on the stage. It’s a real treat for the ears.
And on Fridays, they have rotating live DJ events. They feature everything from hip-hop to reggae.
They have a variety of comfort pub foods, and my personal favorite is the Cajun Chicken Sandwich. Their slow-roasted and spicy chicken is piled high on a bun with cheddar cheese, dill coleslaw, and pickles.
And if you come late at night, don’t miss their delicious savory popcorn flavors. Some favorites are the Cajun, Parmesan Garlic, and Chipotle Mango. It’s the perfect snack to enjoy while listening to the music.
| Pro Tip: Check out their happy hour daily from 4 to 6 pm, where you can enjoy classic craft beers and highballs for $1 off. It’s a great deal. |
6. Water St. Café
– Media credit: waterstcafe
Address: 300 Water St
Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 11:30 AM to 9 PM
- Saturday & Sunday – 10 AM to 9 PM
Phone: +1 604-689-2832
Price: $$
Water St. Café’s high ceilings, large windows, and cobblestone street setting create a bright and casual ambiance. Live music plays every night of the week, ranging from jazz to classic soul and indie pop.
And the food is absolutely mouthwatering.
I love their West Coast Crab Cake appetizer—it’s a Water St. tradition, and for good reason. The Chilean crab and baby shrimp are perfectly cooked, and the corn sofrito and saffron aioli add a touch of sweetness and spice.
For my main meal, I typically go for the oven-roasted chicken a la parmesan. The rosemary panko-crusted chicken is incredibly flavorful. Meanwhile, the burrata and hand-made fresh spaghetti only make it more scrumptious.
| Pro Tip: If you’re throwing an event, the restaurant has a private room that can accommodate up to 40 guests. |
7. Notch 8 Restaurant & Bar
– Media credit: notch8restaurant
Address: 900 W Georgia St
Hours:
- Monday to Thursday, Sunday- 6 AM to 12 Midnight
- Friday & Saturday – 6 AM to 1 AM
Phone: +1 604-662-1900
Price: $$$
Notch 8 Restaurant & Bar, tucked away inside the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver, has this glamorous ambiance that’s inspired by the world of 1930s rail travel. It’s beautifully decorated, with rich wood paneling, plush velvet seating, and stunning views of the city.
They have live music every Tuesday through Saturday evenings. They showcase a diverse range of local artists, from solo performers to full bands. I love the eclectic mix of genres, from jazz to blues to indie rock.
The menu is equally elegant, with delicious classic dishes. I usually go with their Fraser Valley chicken schnitzel. The chicken is perfectly cooked, and the heirloom carrots and chive mustard velouté add a touch of sweetness and spice.
But if you’re looking for something lighter, their Roasted Riverence Farm Trout is a must-try.
| Pro Tip: For people who love tea, they have themed afternoon tea events, like their winter holiday tea. You can enjoy savoury sandwiches, like a luxurious crab & lobster roll or a rich and earthy winter truffle & wild mushroom tartlet. |
8. The Yale Saloon
– Media credit: yalesaloon
Address: 1300 Granville St
Hours:
- Wednesday & Thursday – 8 PM to 2 AM
- Friday & Saturday – 8 PM to 3 AM
Phone: +1 604-800-6321
Price: $$
The Yale Saloon is a Wild West wonderland with saddle stools, wagon wheel chandeliers, and even a mechanical bull. It’s the ultimate shindig for all country fans.
With line dancing, bull riding, and good old live music, the atmosphere drags you in all night long.
The saloon has free line dancing lessons, and I’ve actually learned a few steps myself. It’s a lot of fun, even if you’re not a seasoned dancer.
But the food here is what steals my heart—it’s Southern comfort food at its finest. The slow-smoked meats, brisket, and more are all cooked to perfection.
| Pro Tip: If you want a country-style party, the saloon has party packages. They include welcome drinks, dinner, and a reserved table. They also with line dancing lessons, unlimited mechanical bull riding, a DJ, and a dance floor. |
9. Arc Restaurant
– Media credit: eatwithmegg
Address: 900 Canada Pl
Hours:
- Monday to Thursday,Sunday – 6:30 AM to 12 Midnight
- Friday & Saturday – 6:30 AM to 1 AM
Phone: +1 604-691-1818
Price: $$$
Arc Restaurant has delicious bites and groovy live tunes, and it’s truly a restaurant with a view.
You can dine in the spacious dining room or on the covered patio, both offering mesmerizing harbour and mountain views.
Their urban artisan menu is delicious. The freshness of their ingredients comes from their rooftop herb garden and beehives.
The restaurant offers a variety of dining options, including a signature “Province to Plate” menu. It’s a popular bottomless weekend brunch, and a late-night happy hour.
Plus, they have live music every Friday and Saturday evening.
| Pro Tip: I like to go during their happy hour, Monday-Friday from 3pm- 5:30pm, and late-night from 10pm-close. They have an excellent selection of affordable cocktails and appetizers. |
10. Bacchus Restaurant & Lounge
– Media credit: bacchusvancouver
Address: 845 Hornby St
Hours:
- Monday to Thursday, Sunday – 7 AM to 12 Midnight
- Friday & Saturday – 7 AM to 1 AM
Phone: +1 604-608-5319
Price: $$$
Bacchus Restaurant & Lounge has a sophisticated and romantic atmosphere that evokes the feeling of stepping into a European bistro.
The décor is elegant, with Venetian influences. There are original artworks and a large canvas depicting Bacchus (the Greek god of wine and revelry) presiding over the dining room.
The food is equally impressive, with exquisite European-inspired cuisine featuring fresh and sustainably sourced ingredients. Their wine list is extensive, and they have something to pair with every dish.
I especially love their pan-roasted lamb saddle. The lamb is cooked to perfection, and the bean cassoulet, broccolini, and oven-dried tomatoes add a touch of sweetness and savoryness.
But my favorite thing to do here is to sit back in the lounge, and enjoy one of their cocktails while watching the fireplace and listening to their live piano performances.
| Pro Tip: Arrive early if you want to snag a seat in the lounge. It’s first come, first served! |
11. Lanalous
– Media credit: kakatua1
Address: 362 Powell St
Hours:
- Thursday & Friday – 8 PM to 1 AM
- Saturday – 4 PM to 1 AM
- Sunday – 8 PM to 12 Midnight
Phone: +1 604-563-5055
Price: $$
Lanalou is a unique rock n’ roll eatery experience with intimate underground vibes.
Live music is always my favourite. It features a diverse range of genres, including indie rock, folk, punk, and electronic music. The performances often showcase up-and-coming talent as well as established artists.
The food is absolutely delicious, with comfort food classics like their perogies and mac ‘n’ cheese. I especially love their mac ‘n’ cheese with pulled pork—it’s cheesy, gooey, and incredibly satisfying. And the drinks are cheap too!
| Pro Tip: They book parties, concerts, and events! |
12. Cardero’s Restaurant
– Media credit: carderos_van
Address: 1583 Coal Harbour Quay
Hours: Monday to Sunday – 11:30 AM to 10 PM
Phone: +1 604-669-7666
Price: $$$
Cardero’s Restaurant is where I like to go for an upscale yet casual atmosphere with spectacular mountain and inlet views and relaxing music.
They have live music nightly in their marina-side pub. They feature a variety of genres, from jazz to blues to rock.
When it comes to their food, I love their fresh seafood, especially their roasted sablefish. The miso-sake marinade adds a touch of sweetness and umami, and the wok-fried rice and seasonal vegetables make for a well-balanced meal.
Or, if you’re looking for something lighter, try their Fungi Pizza. It has a rich garlic cream sauce, and the roasted mushrooms, truffle, and grana padano add a touch of earthiness and luxury.
| Pro Tip: If you’re planning a private event, their patio is fully enclosed and heated. It’s available on a seasonal basis from October to March and can accommodate groups of up to 100 people. |
13. The Red Accordion
– Media credit: theredaccordion
Address: 1616 Alberni St
Hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 12 PM to 12 AM
- Friday – 12 PM to 1 AM
- Saturday – 10 AM to 1 AM
- Sunday – 10 AM to 12 AM
Phone: +1 604-428-6464
Price: $$
The Red Accordion is housed in a charming red house. It has this unique and inviting ambiance that feels like you’re eating at home.
The upstairs dining rooms are cozy and inviting, with a mix of tables and booths. And the lounge is the perfect place to relax after a delicious meal with its couches and armchairs.
I love their fresh, farm-to-table dishes with a modern twist. Their burratatouille tart is a must-try. The fresh burrata, roasted zucchini and eggplant, and red wine caramelized onions contrast the sweetness of the puff pastry, making it a delicious dish.
But if you’re looking for something heartier, their Saffron Bolognese is a great choice. Their 7-hour simmered 3-meat ragu is incredibly flavorful, and the orecchiette pasta, saffron, and preserved lemon whipped mascarpone add a touch of sophistication.
They regularly have live music, ranging from solo artists to full bands. The music is typically a mix of genres, including jazz, blues, folk, and rock.
| Pro Tip: Check out their selection of non-alcoholic beers, wines, and cocktails, like the Mezcal No-Rita—that undone not mezcal and tamarind syrup almost fooled me. |
15. Joe Fortes Seafood & Chop House
– Media credit: joefortesvan
Address: 777 Thurlow St, Vancouver
Hours: Monday to Sunday – 11 AM to 11 PM
Phone: +1 604-669-1940
Price: $$$
Joe Fortes Seafood & Chop House is for the classy, mindful, and demure. The main dining room is anchored by a soaring horseshoe oyster bar, and the Grand Room has large, cozy booths.
I love the mezzanine, where you can get a bird’s-eye view of the action below, including the live music. And the mahogany-walled wine room is a great option for more intimacy.
My favorite spot, though, is the bistro and bar area. In there, you can soak up the live music up close.
Foodwise, they focus on natural flavors and use the finest ingredients from Pacific Northwest farmers, fishermen, and food artisans.
Their legendary 3-tiered Seafood Tower is a must-try, as are their premium oysters and chops. And the steakhouse fare is top-notch. Options include prime rib, fillet mignon, and New York strip.
| Pro Tip: At this restaurant, there’s even a cozy outdoor fireplace and bustling horseshoe bar to enjoy. Plus, it’s the perfect place to relax and admire the sunset. |
