Where to Watch the Playoffs in Vancouver
While Vancouver doesn’t have any actual claims in this year’s NHL or NBA playoffs (are we allowed to be proud of the Grizzlies? Must we really cheer for the Oilers?), that’s no excuse to not enjoy one of the most exciting times in the sports year. There’s nothing better than meeting the gang to catch buzzer-beating three-pointers and game-winning goals in double overtime over pints. We’ve put together some of the best pubs and bars in town to watch NHL & NBA playoff games while catching great drink specials. Enjoy (even if you’re a Oilers fan).
The Butcher & Bullock
911 West Pender Street, Downtown
With 11 HD TVs and a 202-inch projection screen, it’s no wonder why the Butcher & Bullock is Vancouver’s most reliable pub for sports viewing of all kind. Showing all of the playoff games, you’ll be able to see those that are left try to bring the Cup home on the big screen while enjoying the best food and drink you could ask for from a proper pub. The fun and lively atmosphere is made complete by having 28 different beers on tap to choose from, including a full selection of Lower Mainland and BC breweries. With a brand new, elevated menu, daily drink specials, and one of the best happy hours in town, you can’t find a better spot to properly enjoy the playoffs this year.
Daily drink specials. Happy Hour: Mondays – Fridays (3 PM – 6 PM) featuring $4 any domestic craft beer, $4 highballs, and $5 wine.
Score on Davie
1262 Davie Street, West End
Located right on Davie Street, this West End favourite is geared up for the NHL playoffs. Famous for their excellent pub food and elaborately garnished caesars, Score is the perfect spot to hunker into and watch the games while filling up on fried chicken, burgers, and craft beer. Featuring a mix of North American and European beers on tap, there’s something for every beer drinker. And yes, their caesar list is second to none (seriously – we’re talking burgers and chocolate cake as garnishes).
Daily drink specials (all specials offered on Mondays). Happy Hour: Mondays – Thursdays (10 PM – close) featuring $3.50 sleeves and $12 jugs.
The Charles Bar
136 West Cordova Street, Gastown
The Charles Bar is a great sports destination year-round, but during playoffs, their wall of TVs are the ticket to settling into the nightly post-season emotional roller coaster. In the ground floor of the Woodward’s building, this Gastown go-to keeps a lively spectator atmosphere regardless of the game, with well-crafted food and drinks. They feature local beers on tap and daily drink specials that let you enjoy as many overtimes as the NHL can dish out without a huge bill. They’re also a great brunch destination with drink specials until 2 PM for those lazy weekend days when you just want to be surrounded by sports and beer.
Daily drink specials, brunch specials until 2 PM on weekends. Happy Hour: Mondays – Fridays (3 PM – 6 PM) featuring $4 domestic draft, $4 house wine, and $4 highballs.
Colony Bar
2904 Main Street, Mount Pleasant and 3255 West Broadway, Kitsilano
Colony Bar is known for their laid back, “come as you are” locations, and are an easy choice for a bite and a pint during the games on either side of town. With HD TVs everywhere, the wall-to-wall windows in the front provide a bright and casual atmosphere. Their menu is an excellent mix of comfort food, with lots of options to share with the group. The daily drink specials (featuring some of the 18 craft beers they have on tap) and Happy hour are reason enough to get comfortable.
Daily drink specials. Happy Hour: Mondays – Fridays (3 PM – 6 PM) featuring $3 beers, $3 highballs, and $4 wine.
Red Card Sports Bar
560 Smithe Street, Yaletown.
More than just a sports bar, Red Card offers an energetic setting with delicious food for any playoff outing. With 16 HD TVs and a 102” projection screen, you’ll be able to watch all of the hockey and basketball you could possibly consume. Even better, they’ve got beers from around the globe, from bottled Asian brands to American craft breweries. Located right on the edge of Yaletown, it’s conveniently located to pop in for a bit of happy hour while you catch the games.
Daily drink specials. Happy Hour: Mondays – Fridays (2:30 PM – 5:30 PM) featuring $3 sleeves, $5 pints, $4 highballs, and $5 wine.
Other Favourites:
- The Five Point on Main
- St. Augustine’s on the Drive
- The Lamplighter in Gastown
- Local in Kits
- The Pint Downtown
