Vancouvers Best Places For A Friends Night Out: Things To Do In Vancouver At Night

Vancouvers Best Places for a Night Out

Vancouver, a vibrant city on Canada’s west coast, offers an endless array of exciting activities and venues perfect for a night out with friends. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a casual evening at a cozy pub, embark on a culinary adventure, or experience something more unique, Vancouver has it all. This guide will take you through some of the best places in the city to hang out with your friends, offering options that cater to various tastes and preferences. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, these spots are guaranteed to provide a memorable night out.

1. Start with Dinner: The City’s Top Eateries

No night out is complete without good food. Vancouver is a culinary hotspot, offering a diverse range of dining options that reflect its multicultural population. Here are a few top picks for starting your evening with a delicious meal.

a) Vij’s

  • Location: 3106 Cambie St, Vancouver, BC

  • Vibe: Vij’s is an iconic Vancouver restaurant that has gained international acclaim for its innovative approach to Indian cuisine. The restaurant is warm and inviting, with an ambiance that blends traditional Indian elements with modern, stylish decor.

  • Cuisine: Vij’s is renowned for its contemporary Indian dishes that push the boundaries of traditional cooking. The menu features a variety of creative, flavorful dishes, all made with high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. From their famous lamb “popsicles” in fenugreek cream curry to the delicate jackfruit in black cardamom and cumin curry, every dish is a testament to the artistry of Indian cuisine.

  • Why It’s Great for a Night Out: Vij’s is perfect for a group of friends looking to experience something unique and delicious. The sharing-style dishes make it easy to sample a variety of flavors, and the restaurant’s welcoming atmosphere sets the stage for a fun, relaxed evening. Plus, the location on Cambie Street means you’re just a short ride away from many of Vancouver’s top bars and entertainment venues.

b) The Acorn

  • Location: 3995 Main St, Vancouver, BC

  • Vibe: For those seeking a vegetarian or vegan option, The Acorn is a must-visit. This award-winning restaurant offers a cozy and intimate setting, with an emphasis on creative, plant-based cuisine.

  • Cuisine: The Acorn’s menu is entirely vegetarian and vegan, with dishes that are as beautiful as they are delicious. They use fresh, local produce to create innovative plates that even meat-eaters will love. The menu changes seasonally, so there’s always something new to try.

  • Why It’s Great for a Night Out: The Acorn’s creative menu and relaxed vibe make it a great spot for catching up with friends over a healthy, satisfying meal. It’s also conveniently located on Main Street, where you can find plenty of bars and cafes to explore afterward.

c) Miku

  • Location: 200 Granville St, Vancouver, BC

  • Vibe: If you’re in the mood for something a bit more upscale, Miku offers an unforgettable dining experience with stunning views of the waterfront. The restaurant features a sleek, modern design, with large windows that provide panoramic views of the harbor.

  • Cuisine: Miku is famous for its aburi-style sushi, where the fish is lightly seared with a blowtorch, giving it a unique flavor and texture. The menu also includes a variety of other Japanese-inspired dishes, all made with the freshest ingredients.

  • Why It’s Great for a Night Out: Miku’s combination of exquisite food, beautiful presentation, and stunning views make it a fantastic choice for a special night out with friends. After dinner, you can take a stroll along the waterfront or head to one of the nearby lounges for a nightcap.

2. Grab a Drink: Vancouver’s Best Bars and Pubs

After a great meal, it’s time to grab a drink and unwind. Vancouver has a thriving bar scene, with options ranging from cozy pubs to trendy cocktail bars.

a) The Keefer Bar

  • Location: 135 Keefer St, Vancouver, BC

  • Vibe: Located in the heart of Chinatown, The Keefer Bar is known for its creative cocktails and moody, apothecary-inspired décor. The bar is dimly lit with red lanterns and vintage furniture, creating an intimate and mysterious atmosphere.

  • Drinks: The Keefer Bar specializes in craft cocktails that are both unique and expertly made. The menu features a range of drinks inspired by traditional Chinese medicine, using ingredients like ginseng, goji berries, and dragon fruit. They also offer a selection of beers and wines.

  • Why It’s Great for a Night Out: The Keefer Bar’s creative cocktails and cool, laid-back vibe make it a perfect spot for starting your night with a drink. The location in Chinatown also means you’re close to other great bars and late-night eateries if you want to keep the night going.

b) Alibi Room

  • Location: 157 Alexander St, Vancouver, BC

  • Vibe: Alibi Room is a favorite among craft beer enthusiasts. Located in a heritage building on the edge of Gastown, the bar offers a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere with a focus on quality over quantity.

  • Drinks: With over 50 taps, Alibi Room offers an extensive selection of local and international craft beers, ciders, and kombuchas. The rotating tap list means there’s always something new to try, and the knowledgeable staff can help you find the perfect brew.

  • Why It’s Great for a Night Out: Alibi Room’s casual vibe and impressive beer selection make it a great spot for hanging out with friends, especially if you’re a fan of craft beer. The bar also serves a menu of elevated pub fare, so you can enjoy a snack or meal with your drinks.

3. Experience Something Unique: Entertainment Options

Vancouver’s nightlife isn’t just about eating and drinking—there are plenty of unique experiences to be had as well. Whether you’re looking to get active or enjoy some live entertainment, here are a few ideas for adding a little something extra to your night out.

a) Zero Latency BC

  • Location: 370 E Broadway, Vancouver, BC

  • Experience: For a truly unforgettable night out, head to Zero Latency BC, where you can step into another world with their state-of-the-art free-roam virtual reality experiences. Unlike traditional VR setups, Zero Latency allows you to move freely in a large, open arena, interacting with a virtual environment that responds to your movements in real-time.

  • Why It’s Great for a Night Out: Zero Latency BC offers an exhilarating experience that’s perfect for a group of friends. Whether you’re battling zombies, exploring alien worlds, or competing in a high-stakes mission, you’ll be fully immersed in the action. It’s a unique and exciting way to bond with friends, and the adrenaline rush is sure to be a highlight of your night.

b) The Improv Centre

  • Location: 1502 Duranleau St, Vancouver, BC

  • Experience: If you’re in the mood for some laughter, head to The Improv Centre on Granville Island. This comedy club is home to Vancouver TheatreSports, a troupe of talented improvisers who create hilarious, unscripted shows based on audience suggestions.

  • Why It’s Great for a Night Out: The Improv Centre offers a night of fun and laughter that’s perfect for a group of friends. Each show is unique, and the interactive nature of improv means you never know what to expect. Plus, Granville Island is a great place to explore before or after the show, with plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops to check out.

4. End the Nightlife with a Sweet Treat or Cocktail: Dessert Spots

No night out is complete without dessert. Whether you’re craving something rich and indulgent or light and refreshing, Vancouver has plenty of options for satisfying your sweet tooth.

a) Thierry Chocolaterie Patisserie Café

  • Location: 1059 Alberni St, Vancouver, BC

  • Vibe: Thierry is a French-style patisserie located in downtown Vancouver, offering a wide selection of exquisite pastries, chocolates, and desserts. The café has a sleek, modern design with a cozy outdoor patio that’s perfect for people-watching.

  • Desserts: From delicate macarons and rich chocolate cakes to refreshing sorbets and buttery croissants, Thierry’s dessert menu is a celebration of French pastry art. Pair your dessert with a cup of their expertly brewed coffee or a glass of wine for the perfect end to your night.

  • Why It’s Great for a Night Out: Thierry is an ideal spot for a late-night dessert, with its convenient location and elegant ambiance. It’s a great place to unwind and indulge after a night of dining and entertainment.

b) Bella Gelateria

  • Location: 1001 W Cordova St, Vancouver, BC

  • Vibe: Bella Gelateria is a beloved gelato shop located in Vancouver’s Coal Harbour area. The shop has a charming, old-world feel, with a focus on traditional Italian gelato-making techniques.

  • Desserts: Bella Gelateria is known for its award-winning gelato, made fresh daily using the highest quality ingredients. The flavors range from classic options like pistachio and chocolate to more unique creations like black sesame and yuzu.

  • Why It’s Great for a Night Out: Bella Gelateria’s delicious gelato and prime location make it a perfect stop for a sweet treat after a night out. You can enjoy your gelato while taking a stroll along the waterfront, soaking in the beautiful views of the harbor and mountains.

c) Earnest Ice Cream

  • Location: 3992 Fraser St, Vancouver, BC

  • Vibe: Earnest Ice Cream is a local favorite, known for its artisanal ice cream made with natural, locally sourced ingredients. The shop has a friendly, laid-back atmosphere, with a focus on sustainability and community.

  • Desserts: The rotating menu at Earnest Ice Cream features a variety of inventive flavors, from classic vanilla and chocolate to more adventurous options like salted caramel and whiskey hazelnut. They also offer vegan and dairy-free options, so there’s something for everyone.

  • Why It’s Great for a Night Out: Earnest Ice Cream is the perfect spot for a casual, end-of-night treat. The flavors are rich and satisfying, and the commitment to quality and sustainability makes it a feel-good choice for dessert.

Plan Your Perfect Night Activities for Vancouver at Night

A night out with friends in Vancouver can be as relaxed or as adventurous as you want it to be. With its diverse dining scene, vibrant bars, and unique entertainment options, the city offers something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a gourmet meal, craft cocktails, an immersive VR experience, or a night of laughter and games, Vancouver has it all.

To make the most of your night, consider starting with a meal at one of the city’s top restaurants, followed by drinks at a trendy bar, and ending the evening with a unique experience or a sweet treat. And if you’re looking for something truly memorable, don’t miss out on the innovative VR experiences at Zero Latency BC, where you can step into another world and enjoy a night of adrenaline-fueled fun with your friends.

No matter what you choose to do, Vancouver’s vibrant nightlife is sure to provide an unforgettable evening. So gather your friends, plan your route, and get ready to experience the best that the city has to offer.

Bob Zombie