If you imbibe and enjoy a cold one now and then, knowing where to find good beer when traveling can make a trip even more enjoyable. Vancouverites tend to drink a lot of wine, and a lot of spirits, but there are many great beers, too. Here's where to sample some nice suds in Vancouver neighborhoods and areas you're likely to already want to visit.
Granville Island Tap Room
Chances are good that fabulous Granville Island is already on your Vancouver travel itinerary (it should be). As long as you’re there, swing over to the island’s local brewery for a sample of their mighty fine suds, right next door to their brewery. They brew a variety of ongoing types plus seasonal beers with clever local names. The standard bearer is GI Pale Ale. 1441 Cartwright St., phone 604-687- 2739.
Steamworks Brewpub in Gastown
Located in another location you’re likely to visit during your trip to Vancouver: Gastown. Steamworks is on the edge of the downtown business district just as it becomes Gastown, and is an excellent pubby eatery with beer made onsite. 357 Water Street, phone 604-689-2739.Ceili's Irish Pub
I'll argue that the Irish have the most globally prominent cultural connection to beer of any nationality (the Germans are right up there), and in Vancouver Celie’s is an excellent Irish pub with a great selection of beers. It hits a nice balance between traditional Irish-ness and modern times. Their beer choices are solid (of course Irish brands Guinness and Kilkenny are available) and they often have live music. It's popular with the up-and-coming businessy types. They have a great rooftop patio, and this is the place to be in Vancouver for St. Patrick’s Day. Location: Downtown / Granville Street Entertainment District. 670 Smithe Street (corner of Smithe & Granville), phone 604- 697-9199.The Boathouse at English Bay
Photo © Randall Shirley
Biercraft Tap and Tapas Bar (formerly Stella’s)
This is my favorite local beer spot, although for visitors to Vancouver it’s a bit of a trek. But if you’re keen to see Vancouver’s arguably most-colorful neighborhood (hippies and old Italian men drinking coffee together, lots of skateboarder dudes and lesbians, great local shopping), head to Commercial Drive and enjoy a beer drinker’s lunch at Biercraft. They specialize in Belgian beers, but have a handful of others. The tapas food is excellent. 1191 Commercial Drive, phone 604-254-2437.