The Yaletown Brewing Company is an awesome, fun place. I choose these less-than-original descriptors as there is nothing particularly original about the brewing company, but it is definitely an awesome and fun place. It’s loud and friendly -  you might say boisterous- the beer is great and it pairs well with the food. There is a huge outdoor patio that is just about always full in the Summer- if you are lucky, you’ll get a seat.

YBC’s menu is a few steps up from your standard pub fare. There are some classics available, like steak, meatloaf (nice!), and all that, but there are also some internationally flavoured selections. Nothing is too out of the ordinary, but the quality solid. There are pizzas as well- actually a substantial part of the menu- and they are good- although some are on the dry side. I very happily stuffed my face with an Italian chorizo pizza while my fellow pub-goers looked on somewhat jealously.

It should come as no surprise that the beer is plentiful and the main feature at the Yaletown Brewing Company. We each had a beer flight and were able to sample the season’s draughts. This was an excellent deal ($12) and it will leave you, even if you’re a well-upholstered individual, at least a bit hammered. If you’re not in the mood for that, there’s almost certainly an ale, hefeweizen, or pale ale that will suit your tastes.

Address:

1111 Mainland St., Vancouver
Vancouver, BC
(604) 688-0064

Granville Island Brewery is an oasis in the desert- except I like Granville Island a lot more than I like deserts. In other words, on a hot day, when you’re tired of walking and shopping and carrying bags and dodging people, this is an awesome place to kick back in the A.C. and enjoy some good beer and a few snacks.

The brewery’s Taproom is located away from the water at Granville Island and does not have a patio. The interior is quite spacious though, and has some active brewing equipment behind glass where at least some of the beer is made. What’s on tap varies from season to season, but there is invariably something available that will suit your tastes. Additionally, there are limited release beers available here that cannot be purchased elsewhere. You can enjoy some nachos with your beer (we recommend the sampler) or you can conduct some tastings at the bar. Tours of the brewery are also provided daily. Definitely check out the store next door where you can pick up cases of GIB beer and purchase other merch.

Address:

1441 Cartwright Street
Vancouver, BC
604.687.BREW