With Raincouver in full swing, now is the perfect time to explore some new indoor spaces around the city. We’re thinking warm lighting, bright colours, and fun sips with friends to kickstart the weekend. If you’re looking for somewhere warm and ‘tropical-esque,’ here are 7 bars and restaurants in Vancouver where it feels like summer year-round.
La Mezcaleria
Two words: Margarita flights. If that alone doesn’t scream summer, we don’t know what does. La Mezcaleria is a must-visit on Commercial if you’re looking to score some delicious cocktails and traditional Mexican bites.
Where: 1622 Commercial Drive
Havana
Inspired by the colours and culture of Havana, Cuba, this restaurant & bar boasts eats and drinks that are just as vibrant. Plus, they have a pretty sizeable patio perfect for a sunny day. Order some ceviche or Spanish mussels for the table and indulge in a refreshing, mezcal-based cocktail. You deserve it.
Where: 1212 Commercial Drive
Tocador
Tocador is another vibrant Cuban kitchen in Mount Pleasant, offering a variety of seasonal dishes and daily happy hour specials, including two tacos for $8, and Guava Spritzes for $9. The interior is full of bright colours, Cuban & beach-inspired decor, and cozy string lights overhead. Plus, they have live music every Sunday at 6 pm, which is certainly a great way to kick off the week.
Where: 2610 Main Street
Tacofino Ocho
Not only is this spot a solid pick for tacos, burritos, and shareable Mexican fare, but its bright and airy ambiance makes for the perfect place to escape the winter cold and pretend it’s summer. The vibrant eatery is fantastic for groups large and small, which is definitely a plus if you’re trying to create a ‘summer bar crawl’ vibe.
Where: 8 East 5th Avenue
The Shameful Tiki Room
This list would not be complete without the Shameful TIki Room, which coincidentally is celebrating its 10th anniversary soon! While the spot is a popular destination for post-dinner and pre-club drinks, you certainly wouldn’t know it if you’re just passing by. The windows are completely blacked out – but inside lies a tropical paradise, complete with Polynesian eats, rushing waterfall sound effects, stunning cocktails (with varying amounts of alcohol), fish bowls ablaze, and even a small stage for weekly hula performances.
Our suggestion? Reserve your spot a couple of weeks in advance and split a mystery bowl or volcano bowl with some pals.
Where: 4362 Main Street
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Castaway Bar
This spot in Kits is the epitome of a relaxing neighbourhood bar, with a tropical twist. Their happy hour margs are pretty unbeatable, as are their taco specials and Sunday boozy brunches. Come for a good time and a long time.
Did someone say Catalina Wine Mixer slushie?! We’ll take three.
Where: 3293 West 4th Avenue
El Camino’s
Last but certainly not least, we come to El Camino’s. With a ton of fresh, flavourful Mexican and Latin American fare, you can’t go wrong at El Camino’s. Whether it’s during their daily happy hour, weekend brunch, or for a couple of discounted margs on Mondays, you’re pretty much guaranteed the best time. And their covered patio is perfect for enjoying it all.
Where: 3250 Main Street
And that’s our list of some of the best spots to feel like you’re in a perpetual summer! Stay dry, Vancouver.
