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Altaretto Altbier + Amaretto / Beer of the Month – March 2018

/in /by Daniel Lee

photo by Daniel Lee

YEAST – KENT :

?: @doanscbc ✖ @sonsofvancouver Altaretto – altbier + amaretto blend <@craftcollectivebeerworks w/ the operational assist>

?: Honey, toffee, pecans, faint notes of dried stone fruit/vanilla,?? biscuity malt, creamy/slick mouthfeel…sweet, but not syrupy ?

photo by Daniel Lee

photo by Daniel Lee

⏪: I can only imagine the @earnesticecream version is ? <? cred courtesy of Mr. #evanselfie>

photo by Doans Craft BC

March 2018 – Doan’s Craft Brewing Company x Sons Of Vancouver Distillery Altaretto – Altbier + Amaretto.

Check back again for our Beer of the Month feature, and follow @dangerdan_yvr for more great craft beer photos and updates!

For more information:

DOAN’S CRAFT BREWING COMPANY
1830 POWELL ST.
VANCOUVER, BC
V5L 1H9

(604) 559-0415

doanscraftbrewing.com

SONS OF VANCOUVER DISTILLERY
1431 CROWN ST.
NORTH VANCOUVER, BC
V7J 1V4

(778) 340-5388

sonsofvancouver.ca

 

Nomad Restaurant

/in /by Logan Brown

You and your bestie are lounging in your apartment, both approaching dangerous hangry levels and craving a drink after a long week at work. “Why don’t we hit up Main Street?” your pal pipes up. While it’s a great suggestion, it barely narrows anything down. With such a diverse food & drink scene, Main Street can be an overwhelming destination. But fear not friends, your dining dilemma can be solved with a trip to Nomad Restaurant. Located directly on Main, tucked between 23rd and 24th Ave., Nomad boasts delicious Pacific Northwest inspired cuisine with a focus on local house-made ingredients, for both kitchen and bar.

photo by Logan Brown

We were lucky enough to come in on a Tuesday, when Nomad has a $15 Burger & Beer deal, with the burger changing each week. They also had all day Happy Hour, and yes, you read that correctly. $5 Imperial Pints, $6 Negronis and $6 Femme Fatales, a Nomad signature cocktail with lavender vodka, ginger, lemon and topped with a little bubbly.

photo by Logan Brown

We sat at the bar and were greeted by Phil, the bartender. He and the rest of the staff were friendly and engaging, and really made the experience one to remember. We started with a Femme Fatale & a Rachel’s Fantasy, two of Nomad’s signature cocktails, and after that we let Phil take the wheel with the Dealer’s Choice option. However vague or specific, simply tell the bartender what you feel like drinking and they will create a cocktail tailored to your tastes. He hit the nail on the head every time, creating offerings that ranged from a Mezcal Tobacco Vanilla Sour to a Lavender Raspberry Citrus Punch. We would definitely recommend putting your faith in the skilled bartenders and have a unique cocktail created just for you.

photo by Logan Brown

The kitchen also managed to blow us away with their creative takes on seemingly ordinary dishes. The house-made sourdough changes every few days and is served with herb butter and addictive smoked chilli salt. We followed up with Sticky Berkshire Pork Belly, with cauliflower florets and puree and topped with a crispy chicharron. And of course, we couldn’t resist trying the Tuesday burger special- this week’s being a 100% grass-fed beef patty, apple fennel mustard, pear barbeque sauce and bourbon onion aioli. The quality of the ingredients really shined through and made for some mouth-watering dishes.

photo by Logan Brown

photo by Logan Brown

The space is warm, casual and inviting, and is the perfect backdrop for that perfect Instagram post. High ceilings, minimalistic artwork, lots of wood and a tiny succulent placed on each table manage to create a trendy vibe without trying too hard. The restaurant is on the smaller side, giving it an intimate feel and allowing you to actually be able to hold a conversation with your guests.

photo by Logan Brown

Nomad offers up a fine dining experience with no fuss and lots of personality. So next time you and your buddy are mindlessly scrolling through Yelp and can’t decide between Mexican or Vietnamese, save yourself the headache and stop into Nomad, your taste buds will thank you.

photo by Logan Brown

 

For more information:

Eight 1/2 Restaurant Lounge

/in /by Leah Bens

What better way to break the Monday blues than a few drinks and a good laugh? With its live stand up comedy night paired with $4 drink specials, Eight 1/2 Restaurant Lounge is definitely the place to be on a Monday night. Just tucked in behind the crossroads of 8th and Broadway, this quaint little lounge provides a super convenient spot for an after work pick me up.

photo by Leah Bens

Eight and a Half provides casual dining that focuses on simple, local ingredients in order to create a uniquely ‘Vanouverite’ ambiance. And its this laid back vibe that really outlines Eight and a Half as a place to unwind. On Mondays they offer $4 select draught beers paired with $10 perogies, which I’m sure we can all agree is the perfect way to start off a casual night out!

photo by Leah Bens

In addition to its daily features, we were surprised to see the variety of different twists on classic cocktails. We started off the night with cucumber mojitos-a refreshing change from the classic recipe. The White Peach and Wild Berry Moscow Mules were another example of a delicious alternative that really supplemented the unique taste of this lounge.

photo by Leah Bens

Whether it be the casual aesthetic of cocktails served in mason jars, or the unique martini names that outline the flavours of Vancouver; something about Eight 1/2 Restaurant Lounge really makes you feel at home. However, the highlight of this lounge is definitely its Monday night special, which features live stand up comedy starting at 9pm.

The comedians were hilarious-obviously- and it makes you feel good to support local talent. Hope to see you there this Monday!

photo by Leah Bens

photo by Leah Bens

For more information:

EIGHT 1/2 RESTAURANT LOUNGE
153 E 8th AVE
VANCOUVER, BC
V5T

(604) 568-2703

eightandahalf.ca

Stop Short Imperial Stout / Beer of the Month – February 2018

/in /by Daniel Lee
stop short imperial stout

photo by Daniel Lee

OSCURO | ARTESANAL :

?: @twinsailsbeer ✖ @backcountrybrewing Stop Short Imperial Stout w/ ☕, coconut, cinnamon, & cardamom.

?: Exactly as advertised; I find the malt & ☕ (integrated w/ the faint coconut notes), does the heavy lifting. The other spices are subtle on the finish.  This gently carbonated 9.0 % ABV brew goes down like a 6.5?

stop short imperial stout

photo by Daniel Lee

stop short imperial stout

photo by Daniel Lee

February 2018 – Backcountry Brewing x Twin Sails Brewing Stop Short Imperial Stout

Check back again for our Beer of the Month feature, and follow @dangerdan_yvr for more great craft beer photos and updates!

For more information:

BACK COUNTRY BREWING
405-1201 COMMERCIAL WAY
SQUAMISH, BC
V8B 0R5

(604) 567-2739

backcountrybrewing.com

TWIN SAILS BREWING
2821 MURRAY ST.
PORT MOODY, BC
V3H 1X3

(604) 492-4234

twinsailsbrewing.com

 

Chinese New Year Parade

/in , /by Bob Pember

If you’re planning to check out the Chinese New Year Parade this Sunday, February 18th (map), here are some of the best spots for happy hour and drink specials after the festivities! The parade starts at 11 AM, so it will definitely be time for a caesar or craft beer with lunch. Kicking off at the Millennium Gate on 28 W Pender St. (between Shanghai Alley and Taylor St.), and ending near Andy Livingstone Park, the Chinese New Year Parade is a great excuse to get out and celebrate the year of the dog!

Black Lounge

526 Abbott Street

Black Lounge Chinese New Year Parade

Photo via Black Lounge

Happy hour 2 PM – 5PM every day with $4/$6 dollar beers, $5 house wines, and $2 off appies. $8 double caesars on Sundays.

Located on Abbott near Tinseltown and this weekend’s parade route, Black Lounge offers a modern and inviting decor with a food and drink menu to match. It’s an ideal spot to relax with a drink after work, on the way to Rogers Arena, or for a weekend brunch.

London Pub 

700 Main Street

London Pub Chinese New Year Parade

photo via London Pub

Happy hour 3 PM – 6 PM every day with $3.50 beers, $4 wine, and $4 highballs. $6.25 double caesars on Sundays.

This neighbourhood pub was constructed during Vancouver’s pre-World War I building boom. London Pub, with its exposed brick arches, floor to ceiling heritage windows, creative draught beer line and inviting Pub atmosphere makes this one one of the most unique Heritage Pubs in the city.

The Union

219 Union Street

The Union Chinese New Year Parade

photo via The Union

Happy hour all day Sunday with $5 beers, $5/$8 wine, $4/$7 highballs, and $ cocktails.

Chef Lisa Henderson has created a Southeast Asian inspired menu, while head bartender Kristi-Leigh Akister uses the regions ingredients, sourced from neighbouring Chinatown, to create her cocktails. They have a Chinese New Year menu this weekend, making it a great stop after the parade.

Gong hei fat choy!

 

Happy Hour on Granville Island

/in /by Mack McGill

Fresh, cool air and some early peaks of spring sun makes for the perfect day to visit Granville Island in Vancouver. Walk the streets, shop, eat, and of course grab a drink or two at Happy Hour! Here are some of our favourite spots for Happy Hour Granville Island –

Dockside

1253 Johnston St.

One of the most scenic spots in Vancouver to sit and have a cocktail, Dockside Restaurant now offers a great little menu of Happy Hour items from wine to tacos. Take advantage of these great prices to experience their award winning patio, classy dining room and first class views.

Happy Hour is 3-5pm, seven days a week.

  • House White or Red Wine $5
  • Well brand highballs $5
  • In-house brewed draft beer $4
  • Chicken Wings $8
  • Beer Battered Onion Rings w/aioli $4
  • Beef Taco $4 ea
  • Shrimp meat sliders $4 ea

Vancouver Fish Company

1517 Anderson St.

The Vancouver Fish Company

photo via vanfish.com

A relatively new kid on the block, the Vancouver Fish Company opened on Granville Island in 2014 and has been a staple ever since. Modern and warm decor, friendly staff and plenty of tasty seafood options will have you coming back again and again.

Happy Hour is 3-6pm, seven days a week.

  • Draught Beers $4
  • Glasses of Wine $5
  • Seven-item Food Menu all under $10

Edible Canada

1596 Johnston St.

A uniquely Canadian spot (not just for tourists!), Edible Canada boasts a 100% BC Wines list (sorry not sorry Alberta!), 100% Canadian Beer and 95% BC Spirits (5% for must have scotch and unique mixers). Be sure to check out their bistro for Happy Hour, but also take the time to visit the shop and look into the events or private dining options.

Happy Hour is 3-6pm, seven days a week (doubles as weekly specials menu).

  • Monday – Moscow Mules w/ Sids Vodka $5
  • Tuesday – All Draft Beer $5
  • Wednesday – Glass of BC Wine $8
  • Thursday – Gin & Tonic (select from 10 BC gins) $6
  • Friday – Bartender’s unique cocktail or house infusion $6
  • Saturday – Glass of Vancouver Islands Seacider on tap
  • Sunday – Double Caesar $8

Bridges

1696 Duranleau St.

Although no Happy Hour drink specials, Bridges is always a fun stop while cruising around Granville Island. Since 1980 the bright yellow restaurant has been a landmark, providing stellar views of the city skyline and north shore mountains. With a great lineup of happy hour food, daily drink specials to go with them and a legendary patio to boot, be sure to check out Bridges next time you’re in the neighbourhood.

Happy Hour is 4-7 pm, Monday-Friday. 

  • Caesar Salad $7
  • Fresh Shucked Oysters $2 ea
  • Nachos $10
  • Wings $10
  • Popcorn Shrimp $10
  • Spicy Fries $4
  • Calamari $10
  • Monday – Classic Martini $2 off
  • Tuesday – Highballs $6
  • Wednesday – Half Price Bottles of wine with purchase of entree
  • Thursday – Italian Spritz $8
  • Friday – Dark & Stormy $7
  • Saturday – Raspberry Lemonade $7
  • Sunday – Bridges Caesar $7

The Keg

1499 Anderson St.

The Keg Steakhouse + Bar may not be the place you’d usually choose for a drink on a casual day out around Granville Island, but with a few excellent Happy Hour specials you may want to think twice! Located in the heart of the neighbourhood, be sure to visit The Keg for a premium casual dining experience.

Happy Hour is 3:30-6 pm, Monday-Friday & 2-5 pm Saturday-Sunday.

  • FAMOUS KEG CAESAR Polar Ice Vodka (1oz)  $5
  • HEINEKEN Draught Beer (18oz)  $6
  • “KNOTTED VINES” Chardonnay & Chenin Blanc (6oz) $6
  • “LOS CUATRO” Cabernet & Malbec (6oz) $6

 

Banter Room

/in /by Ben McRae

The Banter Room, located in the sometimes stuffy but always sexy Yaletown, is a breath of fresh air. The reason, it walks the fine line of being upscale, bougey, and classy without being pretentious. The Banter Room is like being at a friend’s house, if you’re friend is a millionaire and the best host ever!

banter room

photo by Ben McRae

We fell in love with the couch seating, the poutine, and the one of a kind Champagne vending machine! Yes, you are reading this correctly, they have a Champagne vending machine stocked with Moet! You have to check out Thursday nights for $30 mini btl’s and $100 full sized btl’s of Moet. A hundred dollars to pop fine Champagne in Yaletown! I never thought I’d see the day.

Banter Room

photo by Ben McRae

As I mentioned before, Banter Room cuts down the veils of pretension that plague Yaletown by offering Happy Hour and Daily Drink Specials in a comfortable yet refined setting. The inviting space combined with ultra cool staff will make you feel like you never want to leave, and that’s fine!

Banter Room

photo by Ben McRae

We love the family style platters as everything is meant to be shared among friends. This creates a social atmosphere and encourages us Vancouverites to open up and enjoy the beautiful people that inhabit this city. The Banter Room is a breath of fresh air and is spot you need to check out!

banter room

photo by Ben McRae

Happy Hour Daily from 2pm-5pm

$4 Hey Y’all + Banter Lager

$5 P49 Wobbly Pop Ale

$5.50 Nude Strawberry Kiwi Vodka Soda

$6 Malbec/Pinot Gris

 

For more information:

Londen Porter / Beer of the Month – January 2018

/in /by Daniel Lee
dageraad londen porter

photo by Daniel Lee

META • PORTER

?: @DageraadBeer Londen porter, a beer style , within a beer style , within another beer style.

?: The aromatic star anise-like spiciness, gives the beer a minty-refreshing dessert quality

dageraad londen porter

photo by Daniel Lee

January 2018 – Dageraad Brewing Londen Porter

Check back again for our Beer of the Month feature, and follow @dangerdan_yvr for more great craft beer photos and updates!

For more information:

DAGERAAD BREWING
3191 THUNDERBIRD CRES. #114
BURNABY, BC
V5A 3G1

(604) 420-2050

dageraadbrewing.com

 

Juniper – Dine Out Vancouver Festival 2018

/in /by Ben McRae

Dine Out Vancouver Fest is a time for trying that restaurant that you’ve always wanted to but somehow never have. Juniper, located in Vancouver’s vibrant Chinatown, has been on my list for a while and I finally had the pleasure of experiencing one of my new favorite spots!

juniper kitchen and bar

photo by Ben McRae

Juniper

I was instantly impressed by the extensive hand-crafted cocktail list boasting made in house syrups, tinctures, all made with premium spirits. The “Necessities” cocktail made with local espresso liqueur, aviation gin, rose wine, and an espresso gel rim is one of the best cocktails I’ve had in the last year!

The Dine Out experience offered by Juniper is about utilizing local makers and celebrating the best of the Cascadian region. Our first course consisted of beets, grilled with soft farmhouse cheese and roasted hazelnut or a choice of salmon, lightly cured with rye crackers and creme fraiche and dill vinaigrette. The dishes were delicate and rich and paired beautifully with their unique cocktails.

juniper kitchen and bar

photo by Ben McRae

Dine Out is all about decadence! With this in mind my guest and I went for the $7 upgrade (well worth it) and indulged in the bison braised short rib on celery root puree with roasted sunchokes and heirloom carrots. The braised bison was tender and delicious! I had had a moment as I was enjoying this dish while sipping on a beautiful cocktail that reminded me why I’ve been passionately following Vancouver’s drinking and dining scene for the last 7 years.

juniper kitchen and bar

photo by Ben McRae

Vancouver is constantly growing and developing which creates the platform for establishments to experiment and innovate! Whether it’s a cocktail list with ingredients you’ve never heard of or a dish you’d never think of. Experiencing the creativity of mixologists and chefs that let their passion shine through their creations is an elevated dining experience. Experiences like the one I had at Juniper adds to the culture of Vancouver as well as your own.

juniper kitchen and bar

photo by Ben McRae

As I said before, Dine Out is the perfect time for you to get out there and enjoy that restaurant that you’ve always wanted to try. For me, it was Juniper. With it’s Cascadian-inspired fare and unique and extensive cocktail list, I’ll definitely be back!

juniper kitchen and bar

photo by Ben McRae

juniper kitchen and bar

photo by Ben McRae

*Dine Out Vancouver Festival 2018 – $40 three-course menu.

For more information:

Central City Brew Pub on Beatty Street – Dine Out Vancouver Festival 2018

/in /by Ben McRae

Central City Brew Pub Dine out menu is an amazing selection for $40! The flavour profiles blend together from selection to selection. We had the enjoyment of getting the full experience and left there feeling very satisfied and yes, more than a little buzzed! The portions are the perfect size with all plates having a balance and combination of delicious elements.

central city brew pub beatty street

photo by Ben McRae

Central City Brew Pub on Beatty Street

For the first course we ordered Leek and Aged Cheddar Soup boasting their own Red Racer Pilsner broth which was hearty and a great warm up for our main course. The beautifully plated and even more delicious Seared Branzino, served with a warm Mediterranean chick pea salad and kalamata olive buerre blanc. You can also indulge your taste buds with the Red Racer Pale Ale Braised Lamb Shank, with gorgonzola pearl barley risotto and butter poached broccolini.

central city brew pub beatty street

photo by Ben McRae

With over 40 taps Central City is one of those breweries you never know what to order because you want to try absolutely everything! The trendy yet cozy atmosphere combined with their knowledgeable staff bring a welcoming charm (our server brought a mystery beer and she absolutely nailed it with the Dogwood London Fog). Their cocktail list ranges from classics to up and coming flavors which caters to everybody.
I’ve been preaching all week that if there is ever a time to Dine Out, this is it! Do yourself a favour and check out Central City Brew Pub on Beatty street (right across from BC Place). It’s a time for everyone to shake off the winter blues and enjoy amazing culinary experiences!

central city brew pub beatty street

photo by Ben McRae

central city brew pub beatty street

photo by Ben McRae

*Dine Out Vancouver Festival 2018 – $40 three-course menu.

For more information: