Mosquito says that they are "A champagne bar without the caviar. A dessert bar without the frosting." It's safe to say that owners, Alice Wu and Johan Friedrich, have nailed this unique and new-to-Vancouver concept. On the dessert menu, guests can expect to enjoy a variety of macarons with interesting flavors like olive oil and rosemary or Oolong tea and milk chocolate, or decadent creations that are perfect for sharing (or having all to yourself). For those who don't like sweet, they have savory options, too. Wash all of that down with a crisp glass of champagne from the well-curated selection of bubbles. Other options include sweet wines, champagne cocktails, spirits, premium spirits and beer.
Recommended for Early Entertainment because: If your idea of entertainment is dessert and champagne, hit up Mosquito in Gastown.
Natasha's expert tip: Mosquito doesn't take reservations and walk-ins are welcome.
Between the cocktails and the vibes, The Shameful Tiki Room is one of the most fun places to grab a drink in Vancouver. Once inside, soak up the super kitschy decor - carved masks, art, retro lighting, Hawaiian ads and post cards are scattered throughout the dimly lit room. If there's one piece of advice we could give, get there early because this 50 seat lounge fills up quickly. The drinks are stiff, there's no doubt about it. But, they're incredibly tasty and will do the trick for those looking to let loose. Expect tropical ingredients laced throughout the menu and a food menu filled with share plates and larger mains.
Recommended for Early Entertainment because: The earlier you get to the Shameful Tiki Room, the better. A few drinks here and you're sure to sleep like a baby.
Natasha's expert tip: They don't take reservations and it's first come first serve.
The Rosewood Hotel Georgia brings splendour and glamor to Vancouver, and the luxury you'll find throughout the hotel extends itself down into the basement where Prohibition calls home. As you step inside the vaulted door off of Howe Street and make your way down the staircase, take a moment to soak it all in. From the rich decor and atmosphere to the menus and service, Prohibition is a class act. The cocktail program is solid, but if you prefer beer, wine or bubbles, they much to choose from in those departments too. Should you feel like grazing on some food, there's a generous selection of small bites that are great for sharing. If you're going to Prohibition, you'll want to leave the sneakers at home and use the opportunity to get dressed up.
Recommended for Early Entertainment because: Prohibition's stunning decor sets the stage for live music (on select days) and a cocktail (or two).
Natasha's expert tip: The absinthe experience lets you try two different kinds of absinthe in a tradition dispenser. It's definitely fun!
Amongst the shops, restaurants, clubs and bars along Granville Street is Commodore Lanes & Billiards. It's easy to miss when you're walking by because it's located down a set of stairs from the street level. Once inside, you'll be pleasantly surprised by the large space - all 18,800sq.ft of it! It's definitely very retro, and that's part of the charm here. They have 12 lanes of five pin bowling, 21 billiard tables, arcade games, Foosball tables and a licensed lounge where you can grab a drink or two. If you're interested in hosting a tournament, give them a call because their space fits up to 300 people.
Recommended for Early Entertainment because: Located right downtown, Commodore Lanes & Billiards is open from morning until late, so you can have fun almost any time of day.
Natasha's expert tip: You can reserve multiple lanes, which is great for groups.
Vancouver's Arts Club Theatre Company is Western Canada's largest theatre company and is a staple to Vancouver's nightlife scene. The company is made up of three theatres around the city: the Stanley Industrial Alliance Stage, Granville Island Stage and Revue Stage. They also tour throughout British Columbia and their productions attract over a quarter of a million people each year! Some popular shows that have graced the stages and audiences will recognize are Les Miserables, Avenue Q, Mary Poppins, August: Osage County, Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story, to name just a few. To find out what's playing when, visit their site and make sure to get your tickets early.
Recommended for Early Entertainment because: Love live theatre? The Arts Club Theatre Company brings quality shows to Vancouver.
Natasha's expert tip: Check their website to find out what shows are playing.
Yuk Yuk's Vancouver is located on Cambie Street in the Fairview/Cambie Village area and is easy to get to using the bus or Canada Line. They have acts from all over that come and usually stay for a few nights to keep the laughter going. So, if you can't make it one night for a comedian you really want to see, you'll have more than one opportunity to catch them. Seating is on a first come first serve basis and you must be 19 and over to get in. If you're worried of a show selling out by the time you get to the door, tickets can be reserved or pre-purchased by phone ahead of time. There are a number of restaurants that are within walking distance of Yuk Yuk's, so you can grab a bite to eat before the show, or go for a drink after.
Recommended for Early Entertainment because: Yuk Yuk's Comedy Club offers two different show times on weekends.
Natasha's expert tip: Amateur nights are held every Wednesday and are just $5 including tax.
The Comedy Mix is one of Vancouver's busiest comedy clubs where acts from all over come to make people laugh. Located in the Century Plaza Hotel on Burrard Street, the Comedy Mix is easily accessible by public transportation. Shows run from Tuesday through Saturday and the weekend shows have two times at 8:00pm and 10:30pm. Doors open one hour before the show starts, so go in and grab yourself a good seat, but only the brave will want to sit within the first few rows. Tuesday night acts are the cheapest and they get slightly more expensive as the week progresses. Entrance into the Comedy Mix is for those age 19 and above because it is a licensed venue and alcohol is served. Make sure you bring identification. They also have pub style appetizers to nibble on while you laugh throughout the night.
Recommended for Early Entertainment because: They have a variety of show times and the early shows are perfect timing when you want an early-to-bed night.
Natasha's expert tip: If you have a group of 20 or more people, contact the Comedy Mix and you may be eligible for a discount.
Whether you're a guest staying at the hotel or a local looking to hang out, the Fairmont Pacific Rim's Lobby Lounge and RawBar is a fun place to chill. Immediately as you walk into the hotel, you're greeted by the lounge. The soaring ceilings, modern fireplace, and expansive marble details make this a chic yet cozy space. The cocktail program at the Lobby Lounge is excellent. Using top-shelf ingredients, it's all about quality here. If you're hungry, they have some of Vancouver's best sushi and other bar bites. What makes the Lobby Lounge so great is the live music. With sets being played seven nights a week at various times throughout the afternoon and evening, an early evening can also be pretty lively.
Recommended for Early Entertainment because: The Lobby Lounge and RawBar has live music seven nights a week with show times that run from the later afternoon until late at night.
Natasha's expert tip: Check their website to see who's playing when.
Along the cobbled streets of Gastown, you'll find an underground lounge where live music and cocktails mingle; making for an ideal night out. Located below Chill Winston, you'll find the space to be cozy and intimate. Feeling peckish? There are plenty of casual bites that are great for sharing. The drink list is packed with wine, beer and cocktail options. With something going on every night of the week, there's never a dull moment. Grab a seat and enjoy an eclectic mix of musicians. Guilt & Co. is easy to miss if you don't know what you're looking for so keep your eyes peeled for the sandwich board and a set of steps on the side of the building this space shares with Chill Winston.
Recommended for Early Entertainment because: Guilt & Co. has something happening every night of the week.
Natasha's expert tip: Check their website for an online schedule for the evening musicians.