Best bars in Vancouver for drinking alone
There are many reasons we seek out good spots for a solo drink.
We understand the value of needing to find a spot for a good cry or seeking out a good restaurant for a solo dinner, so why not round up our list of the best bars in Vancouver that deliver on ideal solo imbibing conditions?
Whether you’re looking for a place to grab a glass of wine to enjoy with a book, want to grab a cocktail after a long work day, or have just had one of those days, sometimes a drink alone at a bar is the ticket.
Grab a seat at the bar and be prepared to spill the beans to the bartender β or sit in silence, you do you.
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Key Party
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Despite the swinger’s party vibes the name gives off, this spot is actually a decent establishment for grabbing a solo drink. With its long, dark bar, moody vibes, and great cocktails, Key Party makes for a great place to sit and sip. Just don’t plan to go on a weekend night β it’s far too busy for the kind of atmosphere a solo drink calls for.
Address: 2305 Main Street, Vancouver
Phone: 604-708-0881
The Narrow Lounge
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Run by the same folks as Key Party and, coincidentally, located in the same neighbourhood, Narrow Lounge is a hidden-away bar that suits the moody, the emo, and the lone wolf. Just as the name suggests, Narrow lounge is narrow, with a long bar and a few tall tables scattered throughout. It’s also got probably the best-hidden patio in the city out back. Find this spot by looking for the red light.
Address: 1898 Main Street, Vancouver
Phone: 778-737-5206
CaffΓ© La Tana
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Sister spot to Pepino’s and Savio Volpe, La Tana has a sleek, old-world-style bar that is perfect for grabbing a seat, a martini, and a plate of pasta solo on a weeknight. We dare you to give us a scenario better than this β we’ll wait.
Address: 635 Commercial Drive, Vancouver
Phone: 604-428-5462
Mum’s the Word
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This Commercial Drive spot is a self-proclaimed “caffeine barroom,” offering both coffee and alcoholic bevvies. Not only is it a relaxed spot to hang out, complete with vintage couches and some very cool decor, but it’s also a really good spot to drink alone. Grab a seat at the bar and let the bartenders/baristas whip something up that’ll cure what ails ‘ya.
Address: 1301 Commercial Dr, Vancouver
Phone: 604-251-6246
Hail Mary’s
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Whether you’re a saint or a sinner, you’ll find a piece of heaven at this East Van spot. With its theme of “dark Catholocism” β seen in the decor of tacky religious paintings, red velvet curtains, and other collected tchotchkes over the years β this bar makes for a good spot to sin…er, sip alone. Get there early if you want a table, or grab a bar stool.
Address: 670 E Broadway, Vancouver
Phone: 604-829-7032
The Wicklow Pub
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If pubs and patios are more your vibe, check out the Wicklow. With an incredible patio right on the False Creek waterfront, this spot is the place to go for a serene, contemplative pint. Added bonus: it’s one of the best spots in the city to watch the sunset.
Address: 610 Stamps Landing, Vancouver
Phone: 604-879-0821
The Bayside Lounge
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This 1970s-era bar has the most iconic circular sunken bar in the centre of the room β the most perfect spot to grab a seat and a Cosmopolitan, and spend some quality time with yourself. It also has the most killer views of the sunset over English Bay, which is worth sticking around for.
Address: 1755 Davie Street, Vancouver
Phone: 604-682-1831
EspaΓ±a
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A West End Spanish tapas bar, EspaΓ±a not only has great small plates and wine lists, but it also has a really good happy hour and a long bar to enjoy it at β the makings of a good solo spot.
Address: 1118 Denman Street, Vancouver
Phone: 604-558-4040
Alphabet City
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This Main Street spot not only has ample bar space but also serves tacos from Bingo Tacos daily. Pull up a seat at the bar, grab a pint, and enjoy whatever game happens to be on at the moment.
Address: 4242 Main Street, Vancouver
Phone: 604-423-3082
The Boxcar
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Maybe our personal favourite for a drink alone, The Boxcar has a long bar with chill vibes and a drink menu packed with incredible cocktails, natural wine, and local craft beer. It’s a good spot to come and sit alone, but you may also make some new friends while you’re at it.
Address: 923 Main Street, Vancouver
Phone: 604-398-4010