Vancouvers live music dining and bar scene. Seen, sawn, but hopefully not gone.
Article By:
Date Published:
Mack Benz
May 3, 2024
In the dynamic core of British Columbia, Vancouver stands as a testament to the West Coast’s enduring spirit. Yet, this urban heart is undergoing a significant metamorphosis. The escalating cost of living and soaring real estate prices are exerting pressure on the city’s live-music venues, once a vibrant part of the lifeforce of our cultural identity. These sanctuaries of sound, which reverberated with the harmonies of connection, are now at a crossroads, yielding to economic imperatives that favor increased patron capacity over artistic expression.
Despite these challenges, we must acknowledge the musicians—the architects of Vancouver’s auditory landscape—who warrant equitable remuneration for their artistry. Their contributions are invaluable, even as they impact the financial margins of the city’s gastronomic and social establishments. Indeed, fostering a live music scene in Vancouver is a complex endeavour, demanding dedication and support.
Thus, I advocate for a collective embrace of the establishments that still champion live performances. Patronizing these venues is more than a leisure activity; it’s an investment in the cultural fabric of our city. It’s a commitment to ensuring that the rhythm of Vancouver endures.
Hospitality and music are the twin pillars of an enriching community experience. Together, they craft moments of connection that are exclusive to those gathered, fostering a sense of intimacy on a grand scale.
Picture the narratives that come to life, the connections that form, and the memories that are carved—all under the captivating power of music. Imagine a quaint corner in Vancouver, where the patter of rain crafts a melody for the soul.
Let us look back...
Ahh yes, the memories of Yaletown’s Capones, where the melodies of live jazz intertwined with the flavours of exquisite Italian cuisine, creating an ambiance that was nothing short of soul-stirring. Or the Lamplighter, where the afterglow of a rock band’s energy was perfectly complemented by the guilty pleasure of a greasy clubhouse sandwich. These were the experiences that defined the essence of Vancouvers restaurant and bar music scene.
Now squish 25 years of that timeline into the city’s landscape and realize it has been in flux, especially since the transformative Woodward’s revitalization in 2009, which aimed to infuse the area with a renewed spirit of art and lifestyle. Despite these efforts, the aftermath of the Olympics has seen a surge in commercial rents, leading to the bittersweet farewell of many iconic venues. The rising tide of commercial and licensing costs has reshaped our urban tapestry, challenging us to find new ways to keep the heart of Vancouver’s culture beating strong.
So that's the age old challenge. Balancing a barely profitable business (basically 90% of restaurants), while trying to instill culture, community and coexistence in an ever increasingly expensive city. Let’s embrace this sad but truthful evolution with open arms and a commitment to fostering the arts and community spaces that make this city truly vibrant instead of just bitching (like I am now).
Vancouverites and those interested in our listened history, lest we not forget, listen in.
Once upon a recent memory, Vancouver’s streets hummed with the melodies of live music, where artists found a canvas for their tunes. These weren’t just venues; they were vibrant communities pulsing with creativity. Yet their music, sadly, poetically, and sometimes abruptly, came to an end when these Vancouver staples shuttered their doors.
I want to highlight the old, the new, the lost. Through history and shared stories do we build culture and community. Here's my adage.
The old, the lost, but not forgotten.
Let us take a stroll down the memory lane of musical havens that once dotted our cityscape and brought the soul to Vancouvers (many a) grey days:
The Lamplighter Public House
The Lamplighter Pub, a centennial beacon in Gastown, has quenched the community’s thirst with a myriad of libations through the ages. As the tides of time ebbed and flowed, the pub evolved, trading its live-stage for a modern ensemble of additional seating and a state-of-the-art DJ booth. This transformation reflects the shifting sands of business trends in the Vancouver landscape over the last 25 years. Another live music venue gone to pave way for higher cheque averages to pay the ever increasing rents and property taxes.
Historic Significance: The Lamplighter's Pub opened its doors on the ground floor of the Dominion Hotel in 1925 (est. 1899), obtaining British Columbia’s first liquor license and becoming the first speakeasy of its kind to serve alcohol to women. The pub is named after John Clough, who lit the coal oil lamps along Gastown’s brick streets in 1887 before Vancouver introduced electric lights.
Music Venue: The Lamplighter Pub was known for its live music. Show after show, after show, after CD release party, after show. Rock, ska, hip-hop, metal. It helped that we had music recording studios in Gastown nearby, help branding it as a mecca for recording artists.
A fun quote from back in the day.
(at the time) Current talent booker John McFarland sees the 2005 edition of the Lamplighter and adjoining Dominion hotel, SPACE gallery, and Sapphire restaurant as a cultural hub. "We're sort of following the model of New York's Tribeca Grand or the Drake in Toronto where there's a cultivation of the local artistic community, while simultaneously bringing in a range of outside elements," says the promoter.
Iconic Status: The Lamplighter Pub was one of the oldest pubs in the city and a long-time favourite Vancouver watering hole. It was a part of the city’s history, having survived two world wars, the Spanish Flu, the Great Depression & the Canucks playoff loss riot.
Closure: The initial farewell of The Lamplighter Pub echoed through Gastown when its storied stage, once alive with the strums and drums of live music, fell silent. The venue’s first act came to a close with its acquisition by the Donnelly Group in 2007 — a moment that marked the end of an era. The subsequent renovation, though necessary, felt like a requiem for the live-music soul that had long resonated within its walls, as the beloved stage made way for a DJ booth.
The second closure of The Lamplighter Pub was a temporary adieu at the twilight of 2020, a silent testament to the relentless financial tempests that brewed in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. It was a pause, a breath held in the uncertainty of the times, as the pub, along with the world, braced against the storm.
Reopening: The Lamplighter Public House reopened March 2022. The storied public house, owned by Vancouver’s Donnelly Group, underwent significant mechanical upgrades and an interior refresh during the closure.
Legacy: A historical beacon for bands for a solid 70 years, until the DJ decks rolled in and screens lit up every corner after Donnelly group bought it out in 2007. Not their fault. Following a business model that meant more floorspace dedicated to patrons spending money, not to bands entertaining guests. We call this, the cost of doing business in Vancouver. The reality of any metropolis growing up, sadly.
Lamplighter’s glow, bright, Music and laughter took flight, In Gastown’s star night.
Backstage Lounge
Nestled in the heart of Granville Islands bustling arts tapestry, The Backstage Lounge stood as a beacon of cultural vibrancy, a cherished haven where the pulse of live music thrummed through the very walls. Renowned for its cozy ambiance and soul-stirring performances, this iconic venue was more than just a space—it was a crucible where raw talent was forged into greatness.
Historic Significance: The Backstage Lounge, originally part of the first Arts Club Theatre, was a cherished music venue and restaurant on Granville Island. This Granville Island gem, has been setting the stage for Vancouver's eclectic music scene since its inception. Originally part of the first Arts Club Theatre in 1964, it found its current home in a transformed warehouse space in 1979.
Music Venue: For an impressive span of nearly forty years, The Backstage Lounge served as a cornerstone of Vancouver’s live arts and music scene. This storied venue played host to an array of celebrated acts such as Sloan, Alanis Morissette, Hey Rosetta!, and Ashley MacIsaac. But the magic didn’t stop at music; the lounge was a vibrant hub for all forms of live entertainment—from the spontaneous laughter of improv comedy nights to the dramatic flair of theatrical performances. It was a place where talent was not only showcased but also cultivated, offering artists a space to collaborate and create amidst the stunning backdrop of Granville Island.
Iconic Status: The Backstage Lounge was an iconic part of Vancouver’s music scene, known for its intimate live music performances and its role as a pre-show venue for theatre patrons going to a show. It's culture, capital and community wrapped into one venue.
Closure: The Backstage Lounge closed at the end of 2017. The closure was due to a series of profound financial challenges. It re-opened multiple times throughout the next few years, compounded by the COVID-19 crisis, battling increased rents and operating costs with limited access to additional revenue, it finally bit the bullet a little while back and is now, at the moment, officially closed.
Legacy: Even though the curtains have fallen at The Backstage Lounge, its echoes continue to resonate in Vancouver’s music landscape. The Lounge’s pulsating live performances and dynamic ambiance have etched an indelible mark on the city’s cultural tapestry. While the Lounge may be silent, the stage lights are still shining bright at The Arts Theatre Company, continuing to captivate audiences with their compelling shows. Remember, the show must go on!
As dusk fell, the lounge transformed into a prelude to the night’s theatrics, welcoming theatre-goers with the warm embrace of melodies. It was here that music aficionados and novices alike discovered a treasure trove of auditory bliss, hidden away from the clamor of the mainstream—a secret whispered between those in the know.
The Backstage Lounge didn’t just host musicians; it nurtured them, offering a platform where emerging artists could blossom under the spotlight’s glow. Its legacy is etched in the harmonies that once filled the air, a testament to the indelible mark it left on Vancouver’s music scene—a hidden gem that shone brightly, capturing the essence of artistic discovery and connection.
Granville’s heart, a tale, Backstage Lounge, a silent wail, Echoes of music.
Capones Restaurant & Jazz Club
Capones, nestled within a historic structure, harbors a clandestine staircase that it shares with Brix, the eatery located above. Fond memories flood back of us covertly ascending those steps on numerous occasions, post-closure, to share a drink with the staff of Brix or to enjoy a beverage ourselves. They consistently looked after us. Those were truly blessed days.
Historic Significance: Capones Live Jazz Club, tucked away in the heart of Yaletown, Vancouver, was more than just a jazz bar and restaurant. It was a time machine, transporting patrons back to the golden age of jazz with every note.
Music Venue: Capones was the place where live jazz music flowed as freely as the wine, seven days a week. Their menu was a culinary symphony, featuring the greatest hits from New York’s jazz eateries - pizza that hit all the right notes, pasta that performed a delicious solo, and meat and seafood specialties that deserved a standing ovation.
Iconic Status: Capones was the Sinatra of jazz restaurants in the city - loved by locals, adored by tourists, and always ready for an encore. It was the go-to groove station for jazz lovers, and the party central that never missed a beat.
Closure: Around 2007-2008, Capones Live Jazz Club played its swan song and closed its doors, passing the baton to The New Oxford. But like a classic vinyl record, it’s still spinning in the hearts of those who experienced its rhythm.
Legacy: Even though Capones has dimmed its stage lights, its melody lingers on. Its vibrant atmosphere and live jazz music have left an indelible mark on Vancouver’s cultural history, like a catchy tune you can’t get out of your head.
Aesthetic: Capones was a narrow, darkly beautiful gem, its old exposed brick walls echoing with the soulful tunes of live jazz. Serving up Italian fare and a side of Yaletown history, it was the place where many got their first taste of the late 90s to mid 2000s Yaletown vibe - a flavour as unforgettable as their signature dishes.
Capones, jazz and dine, Groovy tunes and pasta fine, Yaletown’s old-time shrine!
The Kino Cafe
In the heart of Cambie, a village quaint and pretty, Once stood the Kino Cafe, the soul of our city. With life and vibrance, it was a cultural delight, a beacon of raw talent, that shone bright in the night.
From Flamenco to poetry, it was a stage for all arts, A place where creativity once got its starts. With greasy nachos, local beer on tap, it was a haven where culture and community overlapped.
In this humble room, pretension took a backseat, to the rhythm of life, where hearts and music would meet. But alas, the Kino, a gem in Vancouver’s crown, has closed its doors, and the music has wound down forevermore.
Yet, in our memories, its legacy remains, Echoing in our hearts, like the sweetest refrains. So here’s to the Kino, its spirit forever alive, In the stories we share, its memory will thrive!
I took the love of my life to Kino for flamenco and a pitcher on our 2nd date.
Historic Significance: The Kino Cafe, a gem nestled on Cambie Street, was a rare Canadian oasis of flamenco and a laughter factory, hosting the city’s longest-standing comedy night. It was where rhythm met rib-tickling humor. And it was ALWAYS affordable, no matter the circumstances for anyone wanting to appreciate live music and arts while eating and drinking.
Music Venue: For twenty-five rhythm-filled years, The Kino Cafe was the pulsating core of Vancouver’s flamenco scene, alive with the energy of live dance and music that filled the air four nights a week. It was a sanctuary for laughter, a hub for the performing arts, and a stage that danced to the beat of the city’s heart, day and night.
Iconic Status: The Kino Cafe was more than just a venue; it was a cherished institution. Known for its vibrant flamenco performances and stand-up comedy nights, it was a bustling hub for flamenco dancers and rising stand-up comics. It was where foot-tapping music met side-splitting laughter.
Closure: Like many buildings along the Cambie corridor, The Kino Cafe faced the threat of demolition, a threat that loomed larger in the shadow of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite valiant efforts to save it, including fundraisers and a pivot to comedy nights when health orders silenced singing and dancing, the venue had to bow out.
Legacy: The Kino Cafe may have closed its doors, but it left them ajar in our hearts. Its flamenco performances and comedy nights have etched a lasting legacy in Vancouver’s cultural history. It’s a melody that continues to play, a joke that still brings a smile.
Covid swept the stage, in a fit of rage, The Kino Cafe, once the town’s stage, fell silent in the age, of the viral cage. Deep pockets turned shallow, as the pandemic did wallow, rising rents cast a shadow, oh the sorrow, oh the sorrow! A cafe so dear, with flamenco so clear, struggled to cheer, in the pandemic’s austere.
Kino’s vibrant beat, Now a silent Cambie street, Memories still sweet.
Rossini’s
Rossini’s, a cherished jewel in Vancouver’s musical dining crown, offered a stage for the soulful serenades of jazz for nearly two decades. Nestled in the heart of Kitsilano, Rossini’s Jazz Bar on Yew Street became a sanctuary for music aficionados, where the legendary Saturday afternoon jam sessions were as much a part of the fabric of the city as the rain-soaked streets themselves.
Historic Significance: Rossini’s, a cherished gem nestled on Yew Street, was more than just a jazz bar and restaurant in Kitsilano. It was a symphony of flavors and sounds, a stage where culinary and musical arts performed a harmonious duet.
Music Venue: For 18 melodious years, Rossini’s was the rhythm of Vancouver’s jazz scene. Known for its legendary Saturday afternoon jam sessions, it was a home to the harmonies of greats like Linton Garner, the late elder brother to legendary pianist Errol Garner. The venue also played host to a constellation of stars from the jazz world, including luminaries like Charlie Byrd, Herb Ellis, and the Ray Brown Trio.
Iconic Status: Rossini’s was more than just an iconic jazz restaurant in the city; it was a melody that resonated with locals and tourists alike. Loved for its lively atmosphere, excellent music, and the unique rhythm of its Saturday jam sessions, it was a place where foot-tapping music met palate-pleasing Italian cuisine, right by the water. Sit on the patio and stare at Kits beach while be serenaded, or hang inside and vibe while being serenaded. Win/win.
Closure: After 18 years of setting the stage for jazz in Vancouver, Rossini’s Jazz Bar played its swan song in August 2010. The closure, announced by the May family who owned the restaurant, marked the end of an era where pasta and performances wove a dance as timeless as the genre itself.
Legacy: Despite its closure, Rossini’s continues to play a melody in the heart of Vancouver’s music scene. Its Saturday afternoon jam sessions and the big names it hosted have etched a lasting legacy in the city’s cultural history, like a jazz standard that never goes out of style.
It’s a narrative familiar to any growing metropolis, where the melodies of live bands gradually give way to the hum of commerce and the glow of screens. Rossini’s story serves as a reminder of the days when music was the guest of honour and every night was a celebration of rhythm and community.
Rossini's, once grand, Jazz and pasta, hand in hand, Now a shell of land.
The Railway Club
In Vancouver's heart, where culture holds sway, lies a tale of a club that once led the way. Tracks of tunes that once held us in play, now silent, a piece of history cast away. Oh Vancouver, city of rain and ray, why let your artists' home fade away? A stage for bands, a place to portray, the rhythm and rhyme of the cultural ballet.
Historic Significance: Born in 1931, The Railway Club was a beacon of Vancouver's vibrant music scene. Formed by the hardworking folks of the Canadian Pacific Railway, it stood as one of the city's longest continually operating stand-alone music venues, a testament to its enduring appeal and cultural significance.
Music Venue: The club's golden era began in 1981 when it started booking bands. It quickly grew into one of Canada’s top live music venues, featuring acts that would go on to become household names, like K.D. Lang, The Barenaked Ladies, Sarah McLachlan, The Tragically Hip, Los Lobos, and Blue Rodeo.
Iconic Status: More than just a venue, The Railway Club was a hub for local indie music and history. It was a stage where local bands could cut their teeth and big touring acts could connect with their fans. It was a place where music and community intertwined, creating a unique tapestry of experiences and memories.
Closure: In March 2016, after 84 years of operations, The Railway Club closed its doors. The high expenses, particularly rent, compared to business receipts, led to its unfortunate closure. It was a loss deeply felt by the city's music community and marked the end of an era.
Reopening: The Railway Stage & Beer Café, the reincarnation of The Railway Club, was a vibrant venue that continued the legacy of its predecessor. It was reopened by the Donnelly Group, who rescued the lease after the previous owner, Steve Silverman, failed to sell the business. They renovated the location, brightening it up, improving sightlines to the stage, and adding a lot of mirrors on the ceiling to provide more light. They also made a significant investment in the sound system.
Despite the enhancements and the venue’s commitment to offering exclusive local microbrews, the Railway Stage & Beer Café unfortunately had to close its doors once again in July 2023. The precise reasons behind the closure remain somewhat elusive. I am currently reaching out to various sources to gather more detailed information. There are unconfirmed reports suggesting that the closure could be linked to the Donnelly Group’s debt restructuring deal. However, I prefer not to speculate until I can verify this information through reliable industry contacts or news sources. I will provide updates as soon as I have more specifics.
Fredrico’s Supper Club
In the heart of Commercial Drive, Federico’s Supper Club once served up a feast for the senses. It was a place where the rhythm of live music and the aroma of Italian cuisine danced in harmony, creating an unforgettable experience. Ensuring the sparkle of the night never faded, Federico’s kept the spirit of the Drive alive, embracing its Italian roots while adding its own unique rhythm to the melody. We thank Osita for trying to take up the mantle. Try they did.😢
Historic Significance: Federico’s Supper Club, the brainchild of Federico Fuoco, was more than just an Italian restaurant and nightclub on Commercial Drive. It was a slice of Italy served up with a side of jazz, a cherished gem in Vancouver’s crown. This beloved establishment had a remarkable run of over 20 years, from its inception in the late 1990s until its closure in the spring of 2020.
Music Venue: For two melodious decades, Federico’s was the heartbeat of Little Italy’s revitalization. It was a stage where live music, dancing, and dining performed a harmonious ballet, creating a symphony of experiences that was music to the city’s ears.
Iconic Status: Federico’s Supper Club was not just a part of the contemporary fabric of a neighbourhood with deep Italian roots; it was the thread that wove the community together. It was a long-standing rendezvous for drinks, dining, and dancing, a place where memories were made and stories were born.
Closure: In mid-March 2020, Federico’s Supper Club closed its doors, bowing to the directives from officials regarding restaurant operations and the spread of COVID-19. The closure was a poignant note in the city’s symphony, a result of a number of profound financial challenges amplified by the COVID-19 crisis.
Rebirth: Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, the former home of Federico’s Supper Club has begun a new chapter. Osita, a Spanish-inspired bar-restaurant with live entertainment, is ready to write its own story, carrying forward the legacy of Federico’s while adding its own unique rhythm to the melody.
Fed'rico's, a gem, Music and dance in tandem, Lives in hearts' anthem.
Cory Weeds' Jazz Cellar
A gem once shone, now it’s gone, A song of sweet sorrow, a bitter dawn. But hark! Cory Weeds’s Cellar Jazz Club, it took flight, Spread its harmonic wings, in the moonlight. From the ashes of a restaurant, it rose high, Like a phoenix, soaring in the sky. With a melody that echoes, a rhythm that’s stable, Used his talent to spin a successful record label. In the world of jazz, it continues to thrive, Keeping the spirit of the Cellar Jazz Club alive. So here’s to the music, the rhythm, the rhyme, A testament to a club, truly one of a kind.
Historic Significance: Cory Weeds' Cellar Jazz Club was a cornerstone of Vancouver’s lively jazz scene. Established by Cory Weeds, a saxophonist with a passion for jazz, it stood as one of the city’s longest running food and music venues. Cory Weed’s Cellar Jazz Club was in operation for more than 14 years. It opened its doors to the public around the year 2000 and continued to be a hub for jazz music in Vancouver until it closed in February 2014.
Music Venue: The club’s golden era began when Weeds purchased it at the age of 26. It quickly grew into one of North America’s top jazz clubs, hosting performances from renowned jazz musicians such as George Coleman, Jeff Hamilton, Louis Hayes, David “Fathead” Newman, Dr. Lonnie Smith, and the finest jazz musicians from Vancouver and across Canada.
Iconic Status: More than just a venue, Cory Weeds' Cellar Jazz Club was a hub for local jazz music and history. It was a stage where local bands could showcase their talent and big touring acts could connect with their fans. It was a place where music and community intertwined, creating a unique tapestry of experiences and memories.
Closure: In February 2014, after more than 14 years of operations, Cory Weeds' Cellar Jazz Club closed its doors. Despite the closure, Weeds continues to contribute to the jazz scene through his record label and performances.
Legacy: While the Cellar Jazz Club is now a happy memory, the record label Weeds established in 2001, The Cellar Music Group, is alive and well. The label has put out over 350 recordings, many of which have spent extensive time on the JazzWeek charts, been reviewed in acclaimed print publications, and been featured on NPR’s Fresh Air. In 2023, Cellar Music Group was awarded their first Grammy Award for Best Large Jazz Ensemble Album.
And now, the final act.
Once upon a time, in the golden era of 2000 to 2020, artists bathed in the warm glow of admiration, and live music wasn’t just the cherry on top—it was the whole sundae. These beats pulsed through the veins of Vancouver’s restaurant scene, infusing meals with rhythm and nights with a buzz that magnetized crowds from all corners. It was an era when live music was the rule, not the exception, and venues thrived on the steady rhythm of performances.
These stages were more than just platforms; they were springboards for local virtuosos, amplifying the city’s cultural heartbeat. But as the sands of time shifted, these iconic spots danced to the tune of urban evolution. The high notes of rent, the crescendo of redevelopment, and the intricate symphony of licensing played their part. Yet, the spirit of the scene proved its mettle, with many venues tuning into the digital age, striking a chord on new platforms.
As we stroll down memory lane, reminiscing about the days when live music was the soul of the city, we can’t help but wonder—where did all that soul go? Let’s keep our ears open for the echoes of those glory days, and perhaps, just perhaps, we’ll find the rhythm again. 🎶
So here’s to the transformations, the makeovers, and the brave hearts who picked up the baton of those iconic, now-lost venues, keeping the rhythm of the music alive. They didn’t just cram the place with TVs and extra chairs. No, they gifted us with a symphony of sounds in a shared space, all while we broke bread and clinked glasses. So here’s to them, the unsung heroes who kept the beat going amidst the hush of closed doors and the escalating cost per square foot for every commercial venue in Vancouver. Long live the music, and long live the spirit of community!
Shoutouts:
Guilt & Co: Truly a remarkable place. It has almost singlehandedly saved Burlesque in the city, alongside other raucous, daring and incredible performances, it is one place in the city that truly everyone is welcome, adored and appreciated for their uniqueness.
2nd Floor Gastown: In the building of one of the OG best restaurants in Vancouver (Water St. Cafe) and run by the same owners, you get incredible musical sets paired with masterful food.
Frankie's Jazz Club: The former Beatty St. Grill that occasionally had music morphed into full-time music at Frankie's Jazz Club thanks to Hotel Georgia renovating it and giving artists a home, 7 days a week.
East is East: A Symphony of Flavors! Here, the music dances as richly as the tapestry of cultures it represents. Imagine a culinary journey that weaves through the Mediterranean, takes a detour to the Middle East, and then sails to Southeast Asia. All the while, the air is filled with the enchanting melodies of their respective cultures. It’s not just a meal, it's fairly iconic in Vancouver now.
The Painted Ship: The Former Yaggers, which we loved. However, the TPS is guiding the ship brilliantly. Music, events and grub. Enough said.
The Yale Saloon: With a rich history that dates back to the late 19th century. We'll delve into how awesome they are in my next article. "Resounding Rhythms: The Unstoppable Beat of Live Music, Food & Bar Venues"
The Heatley: Early burgers and beers, later shows or events, life doesn't get much better than this.
Blarney Stone: So many great nights. Food, music, sugary shots, memories. The Blarney Stone, a touchstone of Vancouver's Gastown and a beloved Irish pub, has been pouring pints and hosting lively gatherings since 1972. Nestled in a building that dates back to 1888, originally the Klondike Hotel, it's a place where history and hospitality intertwine. Never stop support them.
Boteco Brasil: Absolutely legendary spot with some of the best hospitality staff in the city and delicious Brazilian BBQ. Lord have mercy this place can cook.
Bacchus: Picture this—you walk into a room that’s so fancy, you half expect to see Sherlock Holmes sipping tea in the corner. That’s the Bacchus Room for you, tucked away in the swanky Wedgewood Hotel. It’s got an old-world charm that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a time machine. But don’t let the posh vibes fool you. This place is as chill as it gets. The live music? Top-notch. The food? Chef’s kiss. It’s the kind of place where the building is as much of a star as the band. So, if you’re up for a night of good tunes, great food, and a dash of time travel, give Bacchus a whirl. Just remember to leave your deerstalker hat at home, oh and bring the card with the best rewards because it ain't cheap.
The Princeton Pub & Grill: Housed in the historic Princeton Hotel that dates back to 1912. But don’t let the age fool you. This place is as hip and happening as they come. It’s where the past meets the present, where the food is as comforting as a warm hug, and the live music is the heart that keeps it all alive.
From karaoke nights to trivia showdowns, there’s always something going on at The Princeton, it's decent grub, and a hell of a good time. Just remember, this isn’t just a pub, it’s a piece of Vancouver’s history, a rare treat in this young city.
Electric Owl: Now The American (sadly no live musical performances). It was legendary during its 5 year run. Now as The American, it's fun, but it does not move the soul like a live performance would.
Osita: You tried. You tried so fucking hard. My heart goes out to your operations team. Imagine stepping into a place where the walls are steeped in history, and the air is filled with the buzz of music and laughter. That’s Osita for you, the new kid on the block that’s taken over the legendary Federico’s Supper Club. But don’t be fooled, this isn’t just a fresh coat of paint on an old favorite. Osita is a whole new tune. It’s got the heart of a supper club, the soul of a live music venue, and the appetite of a foodie’s paradise. With a menu that’s a delightful medley of West Coast comfort food and Spanish-inspired tapas, it’s a place where every bite is a beat, and every meal is a melody. And the best part? The music never stops. From jazz bands to cabaret shows, there’s always something playing at Osita. So, if you’re looking for a place where the food is hot, the drinks are cool, and the music is always just right, give Osita a spin. Just remember, this isn’t your grandma’s supper club. It’s better. But guess what, it's now permanently closed. Why? I hope this article helped shine a light on some of the major factors.