18 Best Wine Bars in Vancouver – Where to Sip, Swirl, and Unwind

Vancouver has grown into one of Canada’s most exciting cities for wine enthusiasts, with an increasing number of spots dedicated to quality pours.

Wine bars here are not simply drinking establishments but vibrant social spaces where food, service, and atmosphere elevate the experience.

A great wine bar balances ambiance with a thoughtful list, often curated with both classic and adventurous selections, while attentive staff guide visitors through the world of grapes in a relaxed setting.

1. Bar Tartare (Gastown)

Bar Tartare has become one of the most talked-about natural wine destinations in Gastown.

Guests walk straight to the fridge and select bottles themselves rather than flipping through a traditional list, which creates a relaxed, participatory experience.

Knowledgeable staff are always available to provide context about producers, regions, and styles, so the process feels as informative as it is fun.

The bar regularly partners with guest chefs for pop-up events, meaning the food program rarely looks the same two weeks in a row. That spontaneity draws both seasoned wine lovers and newcomers eager to learn.

With its minimal décor and unpretentious atmosphere, Bar Tartare emphasizes flavor and community over formality, making it a favorite meeting place for those who value creativity in their glass.

2. Bar Gobo (Chinatown)

Bar Gobo blends intimacy with sophistication, making it one of Chinatown’s most admired spots for an evening out. The sibling to Michelin-starred Burdock & Co, it carries over the same dedication to seasonality and quality.

Wines are served with precision through Coravin systems, ensuring each pour maintains freshness and character. Menus change frequently to showcase regional and organic ingredients that match the wine philosophy.

Soft lighting, modern décor, and attentive service create a room designed for slow conversations and unhurried sipping.

Its size and energy make it feel more like a dinner party than a restaurant, which is why it has earned a loyal base of regulars.

3. La Fabrique St-George (Mount Pleasant)

La Fabrique St-George is equal parts winery and wine bar, a rare combination in Vancouver. Amphora-aged wines produced on-site bring an old-world authenticity that appeals to adventurous drinkers.

Guests can create their own food pairings by browsing a charcuterie fridge filled with meats, cheeses, and pickled accompaniments.

The rustic décor, with exposed wood and barrels in view, evokes the feel of a European cellar where craftsmanship takes center stage. Live tastings with the winemaker often happen spontaneously, giving visitors direct access to the people behind the bottles.

For anyone wanting to connect with the roots of natural wine culture, this bar offers one of the most authentic experiences in the city.

4. The Wine Bar at Provence Marinaside (Yaletown)

Guests at The Wine Bar enjoy sweeping harbor views while browsing one of Vancouver’s most extensive selections, with over 120 wines available by the glass.

High-tech preservation systems guarantee consistency, letting visitors sample rare and premium bottles without committing to a full pour.

Service feels polished yet approachable, matching Yaletown’s reputation for stylish dining.

Food comes directly from Provence Marinaside’s kitchen, known for its Mediterranean seafood dishes, creating endless pairing possibilities.

The combination of atmosphere, technology, and selection has made it an institution for locals and tourists alike.

5. The Stable House Bistro (South Granville)

The Stable House Bistro is a neighborhood staple for those who enjoy pairing comfort food with thoughtful wine. Its menu focuses on hearty yet refined plates, ranging from braised meats to lighter fare like roasted vegetables and artisanal cheeses.

The global wine program brings together both classics and lesser-known regions, catering to adventurous drinkers and those who prefer familiar labels.

Service is warm and friendly, designed to make guests feel like part of the community. Its size and layout create an inviting environment for casual meetups or relaxed date nights.

6. Grapes & Soda (South Granville)

Grapes & Soda showcases a dynamic balance between natural wines and inventive small plates.

Constantly shifting bottle selections mean no two visits are exactly alike, making it a haven for curious drinkers.

Creative food pairings often surprise guests with their originality, combining flavors that elevate even the most unusual wines. Its size adds to the intensity, with the buzz of conversation and open kitchen energy creating an intimate environment.

Known for its experimental spirit, Grapes & Soda embodies the adventurous side of Vancouver’s wine scene.

7. Is That French (Gastown)

Is That French is located in Blood Alley, one of Gastown’s most atmospheric streets.

The menu focuses on Pacific Northwest flavors, especially seafood and locally sourced vegetables, aligning perfectly with its elegant wine list.

Wines range from thoughtful international labels to selections highlighting coastal terroirs.

Modern décor contrasts with the historic surroundings, creating a sophisticated but relaxed environment.

Its reputation for balance between food, wine, and service makes it a reliable choice for those who value refinement in every detail.

8. Pretend Wine Bar (Downtown)

Pretend Wine Bar thrives on creativity, both in its playful interior design and in its non-traditional approach to wine.

Housed inside The Permanent, a converted bank vault, it creates an immediate sense of fun while still offering quality pours.

The wine list emphasizes unexpected bottles, prioritizing enjoyment over prestige.

Quirky décor, vibrant energy, and accessible service combine to create a refreshing departure from classic wine bar models.

9. Dear Gus Snack Bar (Mount Pleasant)

Dear Gus delivers a small-scale but carefully curated wine and food experience.

Its menu rotates frequently, with standout items like mussels and carrot cake earning cult status among locals.

Wine is chosen to complement the food rather than overwhelm it, often focusing on small producers with distinctive flavors.

Seating is limited, which ensures that service feels attentive and personalized. It’s the kind of place where an evening unfolds slowly, with each dish and glass building on the last.

10. Salt Tasting Room / Salt Chinatown

Salt Tasting Room has long been recognized as one of Vancouver’s pioneers in bringing structured wine and charcuterie pairings to the mainstream.

Its relocation to Chinatown breathed new energy into the concept while retaining its celebrated build-your-own-board format.

Guests choose meats, cheeses, and condiments, then pair them with a curated flight of wines selected by staff.

That interactive model makes it a learning experience as much as a tasting one. The atmosphere is casual yet informed, encouraging conversation about flavor and origin without intimidation.

For many, Salt remains the entry point into Vancouver’s modern wine culture.

11. Uva Wine & Cocktail Bar (Downtown)

Uva is a vibrant spot that blends European café culture with Vancouver’s downtown energy.

Its wine list leans heavily on Italian selections, supported by a thoughtful food menu featuring handmade pasta, antipasti, and artisanal cheeses.

Happy hour is especially popular, with excellent deals that attract both locals finishing their workday and visitors looking for an early start to their evening.

Live music adds energy to the later hours, while attentive staff keep the focus on creating a welcoming space.

12. AnnaLena (Kitsilano)

AnnaLena is a Michelin-starred restaurant that elevates food and wine pairing to a fine art. The contemporary tasting menus feature bold yet balanced flavors, each dish meticulously matched with wines sourced internationally.

Attention to detail is evident in everything from presentation to service, ensuring each pairing feels intentional and memorable. Its modern West Coast design and sleek interior add sophistication, while the staff’s expertise guarantees a comfortable and informed experience.

AnnaLena is widely regarded as one of the best places in the city to experience how wine can transform a meal.

13. Bacchus Piano Lounge (Downtown)

Bacchus at the Wedgewood Hotel captures a sense of timeless luxury. Live piano music, plush seating, and an open fireplace set the stage for one of Vancouver’s most elegant wine experiences.

The wine list features carefully chosen bottles with an emphasis on Old World selections that complement the fine dining menu.

Guests come as much for the atmosphere as for the wine, whether for romantic evenings or formal gatherings.

Bacchus delivers sophistication without pretension, offering a retreat into a world of quiet refinement.

14. Dachi (Hastings-Sunrise)

Dachi has built a reputation as a community-driven space that balances natural wine with inventive small plates. Its patio is one of the city’s favorite summer spots, drawing groups who want to sip bottles in a casual, outdoor setting.

Indoors, the atmosphere remains lively, reflecting the creativity of both the wine program and the kitchen.

Staff encourage guests to try something unusual, whether it’s an orange wine or a new dish crafted from local produce.

That mix of innovation and community spirit has secured Dachi’s reputation as a neighborhood favorite.

15. Elisa (Yaletown)

Elisa is a glamorous steakhouse that integrates wine into every part of its dining philosophy.

With over 25 wines available by the glass and an extensive cellar, guests enjoy both flexibility and depth in their choices.

The emphasis on pairings with premium steaks makes it a must-visit for those who love bold reds, though the list covers whites, sparkling, and lighter options as well.

High ceilings, polished décor, and attentive service contribute to the sense of occasion, making Elisa a destination for celebrations and refined evenings.

16. Kissa Tanto (Chinatown)

Kissa Tanto fuses Italian and Japanese influences, creating one of Vancouver’s most distinctive dining rooms.

Inspired by Tokyo jazz clubs of the 1960s, the interior sets the tone for an imaginative experience.

The beverage program extends that spirit, offering carefully selected wines alongside curated sake. Each pairing complements the restaurant’s bold, innovative cuisine.

Guests leave with the sense that they’ve experienced something experimental yet perfectly harmonious, which explains why Kissa Tanto continues to receive critical acclaim and dedicated fans.

17. Nightingale (Coal Harbour)

Nightingale offers a versatile approach to dining, blending West Coast and Italian flavors in a bright, modern space.

Its wine list is broad, with options designed to complement both casual lunches and sophisticated dinners.

Business crowds appreciate its downtown convenience, while couples enjoy its romantic atmosphere during the evening.

Staff are skilled at helping guests navigate the list, ensuring accessible pairings for every dish.

Nightingale manages to feel both stylish and welcoming, balancing ambition with approachability.

18. Published on Main (Mount Pleasant)

Published on Main consistently ranks as one of Canada’s top restaurants, and its wine program reflects the same philosophy of creativity and excellence.

The list is compact but highly curated, focusing on natural and European producers that match the restaurant’s inventive dishes.

Guests are encouraged to trust the pairings, which often highlight combinations not found elsewhere.

The interior blends modern design with a comfortable atmosphere, making it equally suited for special occasions or casual evenings. Published represents the peak of Vancouver’s dining and wine scene, offering precision and artistry in every detail.

Summary

Vancouver’s wine bars showcase a spectrum of styles, ranging from natural and experimental to classic and refined.

Gastown, Mount Pleasant, Yaletown, and Downtown neighborhoods each contribute distinct energy to the city’s wine culture.

Planning a wine crawl or themed night offers the chance to experience how each venue reflects its own personality through ambiance, food, and carefully chosen bottles.

Read more: Wine and cheese may be the classic pair, but add a flaky pastry and you’ve got magic. Discover Vancouver’s best bakeries where every bite will set your taste buds on fire!